How to Use Eyedrops

Did you know that there is a correct way to use eyedrops? With the proper technique, you can administer eyedrops both comfortably and effectively.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hand Towels
• Mirrors
• Antibacterial Soaps
• Eyedrops
• Facial Tissues

Open-Eye Method

1. Pull down your lower lid with one hand.

2. Look up just before applying the drops.

3. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the space between your lower lid and your eyeball.

4. Keep your eyes closed for a few minutes, and shift your eyeballs as if you're looking down. This seals the tear drains shut so that the medicine doesn't drain off the eye immediately.

Closed-Eye Method

1. Lie down.

2. Close your eyes, and squeeze the prescribed number of drops onto the inner corner of the eyelid.

3. Open the eye so that the drops fall in.

4. Close the eye again once the drops are in, and shift your eyeballs as if you're looking down for a few minutes. Let the drops really soak into your eyes to achieve the maximum effect.

Tips & Warnings

• Try the closed-eye method if the open-eye method doesn't work for you.

• This method is also recommended for administering eyedrops to children.

• You may want to enlist help from another person for the closed-eye method.

• Touching the tip of the eyedropper to your fingers or a countertop can contaminate the tip.