Eye Masks / Goggles

Warm Eye Compress (Heat Therapy)

• Microwave Heat Masks. There are several quality heat masks available on the market.  This has proven to be a natural way to treat chronic dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, and blepharitis.  Heat has shown to help clear oil glands and allow the natural oils to flow back onto the eye and reduce discomfort of dry eyes.  Bruder, is by far the most popular, as they have been selling heat masks for dry eye for over 35 years.
• USB Powered Heat Masks. These newer masks allow for patients to apply heat masks in situations where a microwave is not present.  Best for traveling, as it charges via a USB adapter allowing for endless use.  Because it is powered electrically, the temperature can be maintained at the proper levels needed to liquify the oils in your eyelids. One of the most popular masks in this category is the Dry Eye Mask by Wizard Research. Downside is these masks cost significantly more than standard bead masks.
• Air Activated Heat Products. Several new products such as Evertears, Eyegeine, and TearRestore have heat applications that do not require either a microwave or electricity to activate.  These are even better for traveling and offer the ultimate convenience for heat therapy.

Nighttime Protection

• Sleep Apnea (CPAP leaks) Sleep Apnea is a chronic condition where breathing is interrupted during sleeping.  Most of these patients are advised to use a CPAP machine, can help them sleep, but if they leak during the night, will cause dry eyes and irritated skin around the face.  Several nighttime goggles are available, such as the Eyeseals 4.0 mask by Eyeeco, to help these patients avoid these unwanted side effects.
• Recurrent Corneal Erosions. Corneal erosions typically occur from a scratch, or particle entering the eye and damaging the outer part of the eye.  This can occur from dryness, as well as improperly fitted contact lenses.  People prone to these events are recommended to sleep with nighttime protection with ointment applied to help protect and hydrate the front part of the eye during sleep. 
• Lagophthalmos or Abnormal Eyelid Closure. A full eyelid closure at night is extremely important to maintain a properly lubricated eye during sleep.  It is very common for people to have an inability to completely close their eye, causing evaporation of the tears, causing very serious conditions.  Patient with history of eyelid closure issues, are highly recommended to wear nighttime protection such as Eyeeco 4.0, and apply preservative-free ointments such as Hylo Night or Genteal Gel.