Eye Drops and Eye Care at Blooms The Chemist
Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly to keep the surface of the eye properly lubricated. Symptoms may include redness, itching, scratchiness, burning, stinging, tired eyes, watery eyes or blurred vision that improves after blinking. Management may include lubricating eye drops, gels or ointments, together with eyelid hygiene and warm compresses where appropriate.
Explore lubricating drops in multi-dose bottles and preservative-free single-dose vials, longer-lasting gels and ointments, eyelid cleansing wipes, warm-compress eye masks and contact lens care products.
If itchy or watery eyes are caused by allergies rather than dryness, antihistamine eye drops or other allergy and hayfever treatments may be more appropriate. You can also browse eye health supplements for nutrients that support general eye health. Speak with your Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist if you are unsure which product suits your symptoms.
How to choose eye drops
- Match the drops to the symptom: There are different types of eye drops, so check with a health professional before choosing one.
- Drops, gels or ointments: Eye drops, gels and ointments can all help lubricate dry eyes. Drops are generally lighter, while gels and ointments are thicker and may provide longer-lasting lubrication. Preservative-free options may be suitable for people who need to use eye lubricants frequently.
- Contact lens wear: If you wear contact lenses, choose eye drops that are specifically labelled as suitable for use with your type of lenses. Some eye drops require contact lenses to be removed before use and may have a recommended waiting time before reinserting them. Always check the product directions, or ask your optometrist or Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist for advice.
Sterile saline eye washes can also be found within our first aid supplies.
Using eye care products safely
Wash your hands before and after touching your eyes, and follow the label for dosing, storage and use after opening. Contact lens wearers should follow their optometrist's cleaning instructions and remove lenses if the eyes become sore.
Severe eye pain, a sudden change in vision, flashing lights, light sensitivity or a chemical in the eye need urgent attention: seek medical advice promptly or go to the nearest emergency department. [Source: Healthdirect Australia]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get eye drops for dry eyes over the counter in Australia?
Yes. Lubricating eye drops, gels and ointments for dry eye are available without a prescription. Check with a pharmacist or optometrist first, as there are different types.
What can I get from a chemist for conjunctivitis?
Treatment for conjunctivitis depends on what is causing it, so speak to your pharmacist about your symptoms first. Depending on the cause, they may recommend lubricating eye drops, antihistamine treatments or, for some bacterial infections, antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Antibiotics will not help conjunctivitis caused by a virus, allergy or irritation.
If your symptoms do not start to improve within one to two days, seek advice from your doctor, pharmacist or optometrist. Seek prompt medical attention if you have eye pain, changes to your vision, sensitivity to light or a large amount of discharge.
Where can you buy eye drops?
Eye drops are available at your local Blooms The Chemist or online with delivery Australia-wide. Use the store locator to find your nearest store.