Over the last few years, the number and styles of warm compress masks have exploded.  There are masks that you microwave, plug in to a computer, track with an app, use once and throw away, and even a mask you can wear while continuing to watch TV or scroll social media.  It's amazing what our imaginations can design.

Using a warm compress mask is part of the 4-simple steps I recommend to all of my patients when starting a dry eye treatment regimen.   

I recommend using four simple steps daily to treat your dry eyes.  If you're not sure what I mean by each of these steps, you can refer to this blog for a deeper explanation.  Here's an overview of the steps:

1. Hydrate: Use an artificial tear to refresh and replenish your tear film.
2. Harmonize:  Cleanse the bacteria populating you
...

I want to talk to you about step one of my four simple steps to alleviate your dry eye. If you've been following me for awhile, then you know that I advocate you taking four simple steps to care for your dry eyes.

Let's Review

I advocate using 4-Simple Steps to care for your dry eyes daily.  These steps come directly from the TFOS DEWS II report.  This study was conducted to develop a scientifically studied plan on how to diagnose and treat dry eyes. 

These four steps are part of the treatment plan recommended whether you have mild, moderate, or severe dry eyes.  The steps support a healthy tear film, which we all need to have healthy eyes.  And of course, there are plenty of ways to customize the steps to fit your lifestyle.  Here are the 4 steps i...

The winter season tends to be the driest time of year in many places around the world.  When the temperatures drop and everyone turns on their heaters, there's not a lot of moisture in the air.  And, that's just the indoor environment.  Outdoors the weather can be harsh with freezing temperatures, blowing wind, and extra UV light coming off of ice and snow.   

This is a really tough environment for anyone who suffers from dry eyes.  I want to go over three tips that you can use this winter to keep your eyes feeling moisturized and comfortable. And, I think you'll be a little bit surprised with the third tip.  

Tip #1) Use A Gel Artificial Tear Or Ointment At Bedtime 

It's nice to have that extra moisturizing gel in your eyes while you're sleeping in the winter.  When the air is so dry i...

What are Warm Compresses Used For?