Lubricating ointments lubricate the eyes and keep them moist. They are usually prescribed for use at bedtime, because ointments make vision blurry. Under certain conditions, lubricating ointments may be prescribed for daytime use.
After washing hands thoroughly, pull back the lower eye lid, and squeeze a small ribbon of ointment into the pouch. In the morning, there will be a residue of ointment all around the eye. For some, the residue is not a problem. For others, the residue may be a cosmetic issue or problematic because of sensitivities or allergies to the compounds in the ointments.
Gels and ointments are sometimes prescribed interchangeably. They are usually available without a prescription. View our list of commonly available Lubricating Drops and Ointments to help you pick the right one for you.
Even if you use a nighttime ointment, you may also benefit from sleeping with moisture chamber goggles.
If you tape your eyes, use cotton balls to keep your eye lids closed, or a sleep mask instead of moisture chamber goggles, it is best not to use lubricating ointment at the same time because the tape, cotton balls, or threads from the sleep mask may get stuck in the ointment and irritate the eyes.