Dry Eyes in Australia: Why It’s So Common, and What Actually Helps

Dry Eyes in Australia: Why It’s So Common - and What Actually Helps

Dry eyes are no longer just something we see in older adults. Across Australia, more children, working professionals and parents are experiencing sore, gritty, burning eyes  and its on the increase.

One of the biggest reasons? Screens.

When we look at a digital device, our blink rate drops dramatically- from a healthy 15–20 blinks per minute to as few as 3–5 blinks per minute. Over time, this quietly destabilises the tear film and leaves the surface of the eye exposed.

The good news is that dry eye symptoms are often very manageable once you understand what’s actually happening - and make a few small, practical changes.

Why Dry Eyes Are So Common in Australia

In clinic, we see the same contributing factors again and again:

1. Long hours on laptops, tablets and phones

2. Reduced blinking during screen use

3. Air-conditioning and heating (especially in offices and schools)

4. Contact lens wear

5. Cosmetics and skincare used close to the eyes

6. Hormonal changes and ageing

Dry eye isn’t usually caused by just one thing - it’s the cumulative effect of modern life on a very delicate surface.

What’s Actually Happening on the Eye Surface

Healthy tears are made up of three layers: oil, water and mucus. Together, they protect the eye, keep vision clear and maintain comfort.

When blink rate drops or oil glands aren’t functioning well, tears evaporate too quickly.  The process of blinking squeezes oil glands, causing the thick meibum to be released. If this doesn't occur, the surface of the eye dries out, causing irritation, inflammation and that familiar scratchy or burning sensation.

This is why simply “adding more drops” doesn’t always fix the problem - the quality of the tear film matters just as much as the quantity.

The Blink Problem (And Why It Matters More Than You Think)

Blinking isn’t just a reflex - it’s an essential maintenance system for your eyes.

A full blink:

1. Spreads tears evenly across the eye

2. Releases oils from the eyelid glands

3. Flushes debris away from the surface (toward the nose)

When we stare at screens, blinks become infrequent and incomplete. Over time, this contributes directly to dry eye symptoms.

Practical tip: Aim for a conscious blink reset every 10 minutes - close your eyes fully, squeeze gently for one second, then open. Repeat 3 times.

This simple habit alone can make a noticeable difference within days.

Simple, Evidence-Based Steps That Help Dry Eyes

1. Restore Moisture - Safely

Preservative-free lubrication supports the tear film without irritating the eye surface.

For evaporative dry eye (where tears evaporate too quickly), a lipid-support spray such as Tears Again can be particularly helpful. It’s sprayed onto closed eyes, making it easy to use even with makeup or contact lenses.

For people who struggle with low tear volume, a hyaluronic-acid-based drop like Hylo-Forte offers long-lasting hydration and is suitable for frequent use.

2. Increase Blink Awareness

Blink training sounds simple, but it’s one of the most effective interventions we see.

1. Set a reminder every 10 - 15 minutes

2. Fully close your eyes

3. Gently squeeze for 1 - 2 seconds

This helps re-activate oil glands and stabilise the tear film.

3. Reduce Environmental Stress

If you work in air-conditioned environments:

1. Position screens slightly below eye level

2. Avoid direct air flow toward the face

3. Consider using a humidifier at home

4. Keep Lids and Lashes Clean

Oil, debris and allergens accumulate along the lash line and can worsen irritation. Using gentle eyelid wipes, such as those found in our eyelid hygiene collection , can help maintain lid health - especially for people with allergies or blepharitis.

5. Be Selective With Cosmetics and Skincare

Products applied near the eye can reduce the oil glands from working as well. From what we know, when meibomian glands get affected, it may be irreversible. There's also the issue of particles migrating onto the tear film as well as oil gland holes becoming clogged up due to the heavy waxes and silicones. Ingredients matter. If you have sensitive eyes or dry eye symptoms, it’s worth understanding what you’re using. Eyehouse assesses cosmetics using our Eye Friendly Rating (EFR) system to help people choose safer options for the eye area.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If dry eye symptoms are persistent, worsening, or affecting your vision, an optometrist can assess:

1. Tear quality and stability

2. Eyelid gland function

3. Underlying inflammation

Early intervention often prevents dry eye from becoming a long-term issue.

Final Thoughts

Dry eyes are rarely a sign of something serious - but they are a sign that your eyes are under stress. By improving blink habits, supporting the tear film and choosing eye-friendly products, most people can significantly improve comfort without complex treatments. 

At Eyehouse, our focus is simple: practical, evidence-based guidance that helps protect eye comfort today and preserve eye health for the future.

👉 Explore Eye-Friendly Dry Eye Solutions