1. Two kinds of drops

    Wait 5 minutes between them

    So the second doesn't wash out the first. Ask your pharmacist which goes first.

  2. Single-use vials

    Check how long they keep

    Most are thrown away after one use. The label says how long an opened vial keeps.

  3. Contacts

    Check the label first

    Some drops need lenses out, and a wait before you put them back in.

Put in eye drops cleanly

How to · With eye drops

Put in eye drops cleanly

2 minutesAs the label saysEasy

Steps

  1. 1Wash and dry your hands. Take out contact lenses if the label says to.
  2. 2Tilt your head back, look up, and gently pull your lower eyelid down to make a small pocket.
  3. 3Hold the bottle over your eye without touching your eye, lashes or fingers, and squeeze one drop into the pocket.
  4. 4Close your eye gently for a minute and press lightly on the inner corner. Dab away any extra with a tissue, and put the cap straight back on.

  • Which kind

    Lubricating drops are artificial tears. Allergy drops are for itchy eyes. Redness relievers are for now and then; the label says how often.

  • Preservative-free

    If you use drops often or wear contacts, single-use preservative-free vials can be gentler. Ask your pharmacist.

  • Contact lenses

    Not every drop is made for use with contacts. The label says whether to take your lenses out first.