The Complete Guide to Eye Drops: Types, Uses, and Tips

What to use, when to use, and how to use it — without confusion.

Table of Contents

1. Types of Eye Drops & What They're For
2. Textures & Formulations: Aqua, Gel, Ointment & More
3. Expiry, Preservatives & Packaging: What You Need to Know
4. How to Use Eye Drops Properly (Step-by-Step)
5. Combining Eye Drops: What’s Safe and What’s Not
6. Access Levels in Australia: OTC, Pharmacist-Only, Prescription
7. When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist
8. Storing Your Eye Drops: Tips for Safety & Potency
9. Cheat Sheet: Quick Reference Table

1. Types of Eye Drops & What They're For

Eye drops aren’t just for dry eyes. Depending on their ingredients and purpose, they fall into different categories:

➡️ Note: Many people confuse lubricating drops with medicated ones — but one soothes, the other treats. Always check the label!

2. Textures & Formulations: Aqua, Gel, Ointment & More

Not all eye drops are created equal — and that includes how they feel when you use them. Some are watery and light, others are thick and creamy, and a few can even blur your vision for a while. The texture and formulation of an eye product can impact how quickly it works, how long it stays on the eye, and when it’s best used (like morning vs. bedtime). Getting to know the differences can help you pick what’s most comfortable and effective for your situation.

💡 Tip: If you're using eye drops before work, school, or screen time, go for watery or gel types that won’t affect your vision. Save ointments and oil-based products for nighttime or when you need longer relief, especially for evaporative dry eye. Sprays can be easier to apply and are especially helpful when your eyes are too irritated for regular drops.

3. Expiry, Preservatives & Packaging: What You Need to Know

Ever wondered why some eye drops expire in 30 days while others last much longer? It all comes down to preservatives, packaging, and formulation. Understanding how long a product lasts — and when it should be discarded — is key to protecting your eyes from contamination and irritation. Let’s break down what to look for on the label and what it actually means.

👀 Reminder: Using expired or contaminated eye products can cause irritation, infection, or worsen existing eye issues. Always write the date you opened the product on the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. If it ever looks cloudy, smells odd, or changes texture — throw it out.

4. How to Use Eye Drops Properly (Step-by-Step)

Using eye drops might seem simple, but technique matters — a lot. Proper use not only ensures the medication works effectively, but also prevents waste, contamination, and irritation. Whether it’s your first time or you just need a refresher, here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right.

👁️‍🗨️ Some eye drops may sting slightly — that’s normal. But if you feel burning, see redness, or experience blurred vision that doesn’t go away, stop using the drops and speak to a pharmacist or doctor. And remember: if you’re using both eye drops and ointments, always apply the eye drops first, wait at least 10 minutes, then apply the ointment last to avoid blocking absorption.

5. Combining Eye Drops: What’s Safe and What’s Not

If you’ve been prescribed or recommended more than one type of eye drop, timing and compatibility matter. Some drops can safely be used together — others shouldn’t be mixed due to interactions, irritation, or reduced effectiveness. Here’s what you need to know before combining your eye treatments.

💬 The general rule? Always space drops at least 5 minutes apart, and apply the lightest formulation first (usually aqueous), ending with thicker gels or ointments. If you’re unsure about mixing specific brands or ingredients, don’t guess — check with your optometrist or pharmacist. And remember: more isn’t always better. Stick to the schedule and amounts recommended.

6. Access Levels in Australia: OTC, Pharmacist-Only, Prescription

In Australia, not all eye drops are available off the shelf. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates medicines based on their risk and the level of professional oversight required. Eye drops can be classified into three key access levels: Over-the-Counter (OTC), Pharmacist-Only, and Prescription-Only. Understanding these categories helps you know what you can buy freely, what requires pharmacist guidance, and what must be prescribed by a doctor or eye specialist.

While lubricating and basic allergy relief drops are easily accessible at supermarkets and chemists, more specialised or medicated eye drops require pharmacist involvement or a doctor’s prescription. Always speak with your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure which type you need. Misuse of medicated eye drops — even those available without a prescription — can lead to serious side effects or worsen eye conditions.

7. When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist?

Eye drops are often the first thing we reach for when our eyes feel dry, irritated, or red. And in many cases, they work just fine. But there are times when using eye drops on your own might not be enough — or could even make things worse.

If your eye redness doesn’t improve after two or three days of using drops, or if it gets worse, it’s time to speak to a pharmacist or doctor. Persistent redness can be a sign of something more serious, like an infection or inflammation that needs targeted treatment.

You should also seek help if you experience eye pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision. These symptoms aren’t just uncomfortable — they can be early signs of more serious problems such as corneal ulcers, uveitis, or internal eye pressure changes. In these cases, you’re better off seeing a GP or optometrist sooner rather than later.

Any kind of yellow or green discharge, especially if your eyes are sticky in the morning, might point to a bacterial infection like conjunctivitis. This usually requires pharmacist-only or prescription eye drops and proper hygiene advice.

If your symptoms get worse after starting new drops — like stinging, swelling, or more irritation — it could mean you’re having a reaction to the product or that it’s not the right treatment. Pharmacists are a great first point of contact for this and can suggest preservative-free or alternative options.

Finally, symptoms like uneven pupil size, droopy eyelids, or vision loss should never be ignored. These can be signs of nerve issues or more urgent eye conditions that need immediate medical attention.

In short: if something feels off, lasts too long, or doesn’t respond to drops — get it checked. You don’t have to wait until things get serious to ask for help.

8. Storing Your Eye Drops: Tips for Safety & Potency

Storing your eye drops the right way isn’t just about keeping things tidy — it’s about making sure the drops stay safe, effective, and free from contamination.

Most eye drops should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. A bathroom cabinet might seem convenient, but the humidity from showers and poor ventilation can shorten shelf life. Instead, choose a room-temperature drawer or shelf in a well-ventilated area. If your eye drops need refrigeration, it’ll say so clearly on the packaging or label — this is especially common with some preservative-free or specialty compounded products.

Once opened, follow the discard instructions on the label. For example:

• Preservative-free single-use drops (like vials or ampoules) should be thrown away immediately after opening, even if there’s leftover liquid.
• Multi-dose bottles with preservatives usually last around 28 days after opening — but check the specific guidance.
• Gel or ointment formulations may have different timelines, so always refer to the packaging or consult a pharmacist if unsure.

To avoid contamination:

• Never let the dropper tip touch your eye, fingers, or any surface.
• Recap immediately after each use, and don’t share your eye drops with others.
• If the solution changes colour, develops a smell, or looks cloudy, throw it out — even if it hasn’t expired.

Keep your drops out of reach of children, especially if they’re medicated. And don’t forget to carry them properly when travelling — avoid leaving them in hot cars or unsealed bags where they could get squashed or leak.

In short: check the label, store them smartly, and when in doubt — ask a pharmacist. Proper storage keeps your eyes safe and your treatment effective.

9. Cheat Sheet: Quick Reference Table

Sometimes, you just want a clear, simple guide. This cheat sheet brings together everything we’ve covered — so you can quickly figure out which type of eye drop might be best for your needs, how to use it, and what to watch out for.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always read the label and use products only as directed. For any concerns about your eye health, symptoms, or the suitability of a particular product, please consult a doctor, optometrist, or pharmacist. Never ignore professional advice or delay seeking it based on something you read here.