Suffering from dry eyes? It’s a common condition that occurs when your tears cannot provide enough lubrication for your eyes. Risk factors for dry eyes include being older than 50, being a woman (hormonal changes), eating a diet low in Vitamin A, wearing contact lenses, and so on. If contact lenses seem to be the problem, you should consider trying a new type and buying contacts online, such as Dailies Total 1 Contacts which are made with a silicone hydrogel core that allows for better breathability and more moisture in the eye. Whatever the cause may be, here are 6 home remedies for dry eyes:

1. Eye drops

Although this isn’t a remedy you can find at home, over-the-counter eye drops can be purchased and administered from home, and they are often the best remedy for dry eyes in addition to other home remedies. Eye drops support tear film to protect the surface of your eye. If you have any negative reactions to eye drops, discontinue use and talk to your doctor.

2. Limit screen time

Another common risk factor for dry eyes is too much screen time. The average individual blinks 12 times a minute, but when looking at screens, this is reduced to 5 times a minute. In turn, this results in eyes more prone to dryness, eye strain, headaches, and irritation. It’s always a good idea to follow the 20-20-20 rule—for 20 minutes of looking at a computer, look away for 20 seconds, and focus on something 20-feet into the distance.

3. Warm compress

Using a warm compress, such as a warm washcloth, can help treat symptoms of many eye conditions, including dry eyes. Heat can soothe irritation and inflammation, and it may even stimulate the meibomian gland to produce more tears. This home remedy also gives you a chance to close and rest your eyes.

4. Massage

A gentle massage on the eyes can help alleviate tension, improve circulation, and relax muscles. Although you’re not directly touching your eye, touching the surrounding areas impacts eye sensation and can encourage tear production. Massaging around the eye should never be painful, so if it is, stop immediately. Consult a professional for tips on how to massage properly.

5. Stay hydrated

Water is the most significant ingredient in tears, making up 98% of their composition. If you’re not drinking enough water, you’re drying out your tear production. The amount of water you should consume depends on activity levels, health, and environment, so start with the recommended 6-8 glasses a day and speak to your doctor about hydration and health.