Hyaluronic Acid for Eyes and Eyelids

By Nizam Diveli, registered optometrist and founder of BlinkBetter

Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-holding molecule found naturally in the body, including in the eye. It's one of the most common ingredients in lubricating eye drops, and it's used in eyelid skincare to help keep the delicate skin hydrated.

What is it?

Hyaluronic acid (often listed as sodium hyaluronate) attracts and holds water. In eye drops it makes tears thicker and longer-lasting on the eye's surface; in skincare it helps the skin hold on to moisture.

What does the evidence say?

• A 2017 systematic review of 18 studies found most showed hyaluronic acid drops improved staining and symptoms, though in pooled analysis neither hyaluronic acid nor other artificial tears was consistently superior (Ang et al., Scientific Reports).
• A 2021 meta-analysis of 19 studies found hyaluronic acid drops improved tear production compared with non-hyaluronic drops (Yang et al. 2021).

In short: it's a well-established, well-tolerated lubricant, and one good option among several for dry eye symptoms. On the eyelids, its role is skin hydration, not treating a condition.

Is it safe around the eyes?

It's naturally present in the body and very well tolerated. As with any product, stop if your eyes or lids become irritated, and use drops made specifically for the eye in the eye.

Which BlinkBetter products contain it?

• BetterScrub eyelid wipes
• Eyelid Cleansing Foam
• BetterLids eye cream
• CicaRoller+ eye roller

Read more: Dry eye guide

This page is general information about a cosmetic or device ingredient, not medical advice. If you have a known allergy or a sore, red eye, speak to an optometrist or pharmacist before using new products around your eyes.

More ingredient guides: all ingredients · Eye care guides: the Journal