As someone who has battled with chronic dry eyes and blepharitis for years, I’ve tried countless remedies. From warm compresses to specialized wipes, nothing seemed to provide long-term relief. So, when I stumbled upon Optimel Manuka Dry Eye Drops, a product that uses the healing properties of Manuka honey, I was intrigued. I purchased it with a mix of hope and skepticism, not expecting much after years of trying various treatments. But I was in for a surprise.
In this review, I’ll share my personal experience with Optimel Manuka Dry Eye Drops, made by Melcare Biomedical. I’ll cover the positives, the negatives, and everything in between. If you’re thinking about trying these drops, I hope my honest insights will help you decide if they’re the right choice for your eye care needs.
The Packaging and First Impressions
The Optimel Manuka Dry Eye Drops come in a small, 0.34 oz bottle, which, upon first glance, seems like it wouldn’t last very long. However, I’ve found that it goes a surprisingly long way, as I only need one drop per eye. The product arrived with a proper seal, which is reassuring for anyone concerned about product safety.
One small issue I noticed is that the dropper’s opening is a bit too large. This means that sometimes more drops than needed come out, and that can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to conserve the product. A smaller dropper hole would definitely help with better control and dosing.
What’s Inside: Ingredients and Science Behind It
One of the standout features of Optimel is its main ingredient: Leptospermum spp. honey, commonly known as Manuka honey. Manuka honey has been extensively researched for its antimicrobial and healing properties, which make it an appealing option for eye care. Along with glycerin (0.2%), sodium benzoate, sodium chloride, and water, the formulation is relatively simple, but the honey is what sets it apart.
It’s worth mentioning that the drops contain benzoic acid as a preservative. This may be a concern if you prefer preservative-free products. For those looking for a preservative-free option, the company also offers Optimel Manuka+ Forte Eye Gel, which contains 98% honey and no preservatives. However, this option might be more suitable for severe conditions and is typically recommended by an eye care specialist.
Application and Initial Reactions: The Sting Factor
Let me get straight to the point: these drops sting. And not just a mild discomfort—I’m talking about a sharp, burning sensation that lasts for about 10 to 15 seconds. The packaging does warn you about this, so it’s not entirely unexpected. But it’s still something to brace yourself for, especially if you have sensitive eyes.
Despite the initial sting, I found that the discomfort subsides fairly quickly. After the first few seconds, my eyes adjusted to the drops, and the relief that followed was worth the brief pain. I’ve learned to apply the drops at night before bed when I can close my eyes for a while, allowing them to recover from the stinging sensation.
The Benefits: How Optimel Has Helped My Dry Eyes
Now, onto the important part: do these drops actually work?
In my experience, the answer is yes. After a week of using Optimel twice daily—once in the morning and once at night—I noticed significant improvements. My eyes felt less gritty, and the inflammation around my eyelids gradually diminished. The product helped reduce the red-rimmed appearance of my lower lids, which had been a persistent issue due to blepharitis.
Unlike other moisturizing eye drops that only provide temporary relief, I found that Optimel goes beyond just hydration. The Manuka honey’s healing properties seemed to actively improve the overall health of my eyes. I noticed fewer episodes of dryness throughout the day, and my eyes felt less irritated even in dry or windy conditions.
There’s also some scientific backing to these claims. A study conducted in Australia demonstrated that Optimel 16% drops effectively reduced the bacterial presence on the eyelid margin, which is often a contributing factor to blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The study found that the drops helped reduce the need for additional lubricants, which aligns with my experience—my use of other eye drops has significantly decreased since I started using Optimel.
Another study focused on contact lens wearers found that Optimel helped reduce dry eye symptoms in this group as well. However, the study also noted that longer-term research is needed to fully understand the clinical effects on dry eye conditions.
Drawbacks and Side Effects: Not for Everyone
While Optimel has worked wonders for me, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone.
First, the stinging sensation could be a deal-breaker for those with low pain tolerance or very sensitive eyes. If you’re not ready for the initial discomfort, it might prevent you from continuing the treatment long enough to see results.
Additionally, a sticky residue may form around the eyes if any of the drops leak. This can be easily wiped away, but it’s a bit inconvenient, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Finally, due to the product’s salt content or possibly its low pH, you’ll need to keep your eyes closed for a few moments after applying the drops to manage the burning sensation. While this isn’t a major issue, it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to use the drops and immediately go about your day.
Potential Uses: MGD and Demodex Mites
An interesting discovery I made while researching the drops is their potential effectiveness against demodex mites, which are microscopic parasites that can live in the meibomian glands and contribute to MGD. I personally have sensitivity to demodex mites, which exacerbates my blepharitis and ocular rosacea. After using Optimel for a while, my ophthalmologist confirmed that there were no longer any mites on my eyelids.
If you suffer from MGD or have issues with Demodex mites, these drops might offer more than just moisturization—they could potentially help address some of the underlying causes of inflammation and discomfort.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Price?
At around $21 online, Optimel Manuka Dry Eye Drops are more expensive than regular over-the-counter eye drops. But considering the relief I’ve experienced and how long the bottle lasts, I believe they’re worth the investment. The combination of moisturizing and healing properties makes them stand out in a crowded market of dry eye treatments.
That said, it’s important to consult with your optometrist or ophthalmologist before starting any new eye treatment, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like blepharitis, MGD, or severe dry eye.
In conclusion, while these drops may sting and come with a few quirks, they’ve provided me with the most relief I’ve experienced in years. If you’re willing to tolerate some initial discomfort, Optimel could be a game-changer for your dry eyes. However, keep in mind that results vary from person to person, so it’s important to approach with caution.
Can manuka honey block eye drain shunts?
Thank you for your excellent question.
While there is no direct scientific evidence or documented cases specifically stating that manuka honey can block eye drain shunts, its inherent properties suggest a potential risk. Manuka honey has a very high viscosity, meaning it is thick and sticky. This characteristic could theoretically lead to the blockage of a delicate medical device like a glaucoma shunt.
Therefore, extreme caution is advised. Patients with glaucoma shunts should not use manuka honey in or around their eyes without first consulting their ophthalmologist. It is crucial to follow the guidance of your eye care specialist to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your shunt.