Having bloodshot eyes can diminish your overall appearance causing you to look dull and lifeless. Though it may seem impossible there are ways to help reduce the appearance of red and bloodshot eyes.

Protect your eyes to eliminate redness

Red eyes can be reduced by ensuring they are 100% protected from the sun and other sources of light. These factors can cause us to constantly strain, one cause of red and bloodshot eyes.

Hide your eyes from the sun

Your eyelids are there to protect your eyes but, unfortunately, the eyelid skin is so paper thin it can’t protect them 100%. Although the skin is more commonly mentioned, the sun can have a major effect on the eyes. UV light can beam through theskin and cause red or bloodshot eyes.

Red and bloodshot eyes connected with ultraviolet light could be a symptom of one or more of these issues:

• Eyelid cancer- About 10% of skin cancers occur on the eyelid. Eyelid cancers have the ability to spread to the eye causing it to become red and inflamed.
• Eye cancersare frequently diagnosedby the appearance of dark spots in the eye area, but the eye can also show signs of irritation.
• Keratitis happens when you get asunburn in the eye (yes it’s possible!), this no doubt will cause red and bloodshot eyes.

Wearing sunglasses is one key to getting rid of red and bloodshot eyes. While you may use them to look fresh in your new convertible, they can help prevent significant health complications.

How to get rid of itchy eyes

Limit your screen time

Spending excessive amounts of time in front of the big screen can leave you with red and bloodshot eyes. Watching television can cause your eyes to dry out due to lack of lubrication that is usually replenished by blinking.Focusing on a television causes you to blink about 70% less than you normally would causing the eyes to become dry, red, and irritated.

The average American spends about 5 hours per day in front of a television, and even more in front of a computer. If your life won’t allow you to limit your screen time using eye drops can help get rid of red and bloodshot eyes.

How to get rid of red and bloodshot eyes by changing your lifestyle

Ever think you’re the reason you have red eyes? Some of the choices you’ve made in life could have contributed. If these are choices you are still making in life your condition will only get worse, the time to stop is NOW!

No more drugs or alcohol

Using eye dropsMany times a person can be identified as having a drug or alcohol problem because of their unsightly red or bloodshot eyes.

You may have heard that the number of people smoking cigarettes is decreasing these days, but there are some who haven’t caught on to the trend. If you suffer from red or bloodshot eyes and you are a cigarette smoker here’s what causes your bloodshot eyes:

• The smoke itself can contribute to red and bloodshot eyes. When you smoke, it hits the surface of your eyes and dehydrates them. If you wear contacts smoking can further contribute to redness because placing them over dry eyes can cause your eyes to become itchy and Those around you taking in second-hand smoke can also suffer from dry eyes.
• The risk of contracting Uveitis can be increased by 50% if you are a smoker. Uveitis is inflammation of the eye causing it to become red and bloodshot.
• Other health risks linked to smoking may also cause eyes to become red, it is best that this habit is halted to avoid being diagnosed with particular health issues.

You should probably get some sleep

In a world where everything is so demanding, there is little time for rest. If you have red and bloodshot eyes getting enough sleep should be at the top of your list. The average person should get bout 6-8 hours of sleep to ensure red and bloodshot eyes are a thing of the past.

Reduce eye strain

Get rid of bloodshot eyes this instant!

Red eyes can be embarrassing which is why when it occurs people want to solve the problem fast. It may come as a surprise, but there are a quite a number of quick fixes that help get rid of red and bloodshot eyes with ease.

Here is a massive list of natural and medical fixes for red eyes. Chances are really good that you have the supplies in your house already for one of these cures!

50+ Ways To Get Rid of Red Eyes

Eye Washes

1. Water

A splash of water can soothe red eyes. Remember that using cold water is best though, and that hot water can worsen the redness.

2. Wash Your Eyelids

Washing the eyelids removes dirt, which causes eye irritation that leads to itchiness, swelling, and redness.

3. Rose Water

Rose water has anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Put at least two drops of rose water in the affected eye. Be sure to wash it off after a few seconds.

4. Milk

Milk contains amino acids that prevent eye infection. Dip a cotton ball in cold milk and dab it over the eye gently for 15 minutes. Repeat the process twice a day.

5. Salt Water Wash

Using saltwater solution can completely get rid of red eyes in two to three days. Bring water to a boil and mix in a tablespoon of salt. Let the solution cool and wash your eyes with it.

6. Fenugreek

Fenugreek contains a steroidal saponin that helps reduce inflammation. Soak fenugreek seeds for eight hours and grind it to make a paste. Apply the paste over the eye (leave it on for 20 minutes).

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider has anti-bacterial properties that get rid of infections. Mix a cup of water with a tablespoon of vinegar. Using cotton dipped into the solution, clean the affected eye.

8. Baking Soda

Mix half a cup of water with one-fourth tablespoon of baking soda. Rinse your eye with the mixture. Make sure to open the affected eye while rinsing it. Baking soda helps fight infections that cause red eyes.

Eye Masks

9. Cold Compress

Wrap some cubes of ice in a piece of cloth, or simply immerse a towel in cold water. Put them over the red eye for a few seconds.

10. Warm Compress

Soak a piece of cloth in warm water and squeeze the excess. Gently press the compress over your eyes for at least five minutes.

11. Chilled Spoons

Refrigerate at least four steel spoons. Place a spoon over the affected eye. Repeat the procedure until the redness disappears.

12. Frozen Bread

Using cold bread as a compress helps reduce inflammation, itchiness, and redness. Press frozen bread over the eye gently for a few minutes.

13. Fennel Eye Mask

Fennel seeds are good eye stimulants. Bring a cup of water to a boil along with half a tablespoon of fennel seeds. After straining the mixture and allowing it to cool, use it to rinse the red eye.

14. Cucumber Eye Mask

Cucumber possesses anti-inflammatory enzymes and cools red eyes to lessen the swelling. To get relief from redness, simply put a cold slice of cucumber over the affected eye.

15. Cool Coffee Compress

Coffee contains antioxidants that help soothe itchiness and relieve inflammation. Brew black coffee beans and allow it to cool. Refrigerate the coffee. Soak a cotton cloth into the chilled coffee and press it gently against the affected eye.

16. Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is used to relieve the itching, swelling, as well as redness around the eye area. Since it contains corticosteroid, it can also reduce skin inflammation.

17. Raw Potatoes

Potatoes are rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps prevent eye infection. Refrigerate a few potato slices overnight. Afterwards, put a slice over the red eye and press gently for 15 minutes.

Eye Drops

18. Decongestant Eye Drops

These eye drops are effective for reason – they contain vasoconstrictors which directly act upon the eye’s blood vessels, narrowing them down and making them less visible.

19. Antihistamine Eye Drops

Antihistamine eye drops alleviate itchiness, puffiness, and other similar symptoms. Note that antihistamines are specifically for allergies, so these will only work for allergen-induced redness.

20. Cell Stabilizer Cromolyn Eye Drops

These eye drops work by preventing itchiness for prolonged periods (the effect of a single dose typically lasts around 12 hours).

21. Artificial Tears

Artificial tears treat eye irritation caused by dryness. It also treats eyes which cannot produce sufficient amounts of tears, a condition associated with increase susceptibility to infection.

Cool Tea Bags

22. Raspberry Leaves

Boil raspberry leaves to make tea. Allow it to steep for a few minutes. After that, strain to remove the leaves and allow the liquid to cool. Use the liquid as a compress over the red eye for 15 minutes.

23. Black Tea Bags

Black tea bags are effective in soothing eye irritation as well as puffiness. Chill two used black tea bags in the refrigerator. After chilling, press them gently against your eyes.

24. Green Tea Bags

Green tea helps reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation. Simply place a green tea bag over the affected eye to get quick relief.

25. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile flowers contain anti-inflammatory enzymes that help treat red eyes. Bring to a boil a cup of water along with chamomile flowers. Strain the mixture and cool it. Rinse the red eye using the mixture.

 

Lifestyle Changes

26. Diet

Some food options contain preservatives and oils. As much as possible, avoid consuming food that contains preservatives and oils since these cause eye inflammation and redness.

27. Get Some Rest

Eye redness may be due to sleep deprivation or exhaustion. Be sure to get enough rest at night. Take short naps in the afternoon.

28. Remove Makeup

Makeup, especially those that are put on the eyelids, must be removed as soon as possible. Mascara, eyeliners, eye shadows, and all the other eye makeups contain ingredients that can irritate the eyes.

29. Drink More Water

Remember to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to keep yourself hydrated. Water does not only quench thirst, but it also keeps the entire body refreshed.

30. Wear Sunglasses

Too much sun exposure does not only damage the skin, as it also harms the eyes as well. Don’t forget to wear sunglasses when the sun is out. Sunglasses do not only protect the eyes from UV rays; it also shields the eyes from dust.

31. Prevent Mold in Home

Molds have the capability to irritate the body, especially the eyes. So, be sure to keep your house mold-free.

32. Wash Your Hands Frequently

Washing your hands frequently is a means of preventing the eyes from getting quickly irritated when rubbed.

33. Don’t Rub Your Eyes

Frequently rubbing your eyes will surely lead to irritation. As much as possible, avoid rubbing your eye even if it’s itchy.

34. Unplug

Try to avoid watching television, playing computer games, or using mobile phones for long hours. Staring at a screen for prolonged periods will definitely make the eyes watery and reddish.

35. Avoid going out in pollution

As much as possible, avoid going in places where there are lots of smoke, dust, or harmful chemicals. These pollutants cause red eyes to develop.

36. Are you allergic to pets?

Sometimes, pets can cause allergic reactions which include sneezing, development of rashes, as well as irritation of the eyes. Try to avoid touching pets or being near them.

37. Quit Smoking

Studies have proven that smoking can indeed cause diseases that affect the eyes. Smoking will lead to eye irritation and inflammation, which then will lead to complications.

38. Don’t Share Linens, Facecloths, or Cosmetics

To avoid redness-causing eye infections, never share what you usually use, especially things used for hygiene.

Herbal Remedies

39. Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel is an astringent that helps lessen redness and swelling. Get a piece of cotton and dab in witch hazel extract. Gently press it against the affected eye for 15 minutes.

40. Castor Oil

Put a drop of castor oil on the eyelid of the affected eye. Repeat this regularly for four days.

41. Green Tea

Bring a cup of water to a boil and put two bags of green tea in it. Once the liquid cools, use it to wash your eyes – ideally twice daily or until the redness subsides.

42. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has properties that help fight infection and inflammation. Mix a tablespoon of honey, half a cup of elderberry blossom tea, and two tablespoons of aloe gel. Using the mixture, rinse the affected eye twice a day.

43. Bilberry

Bilberry contains antioxidants and flavonoids that help get rid of red eyes. Take a tablet of bilberry supplement twice daily for three days, or put bilberry extract on the affected eye.

44. Goldenseal

Goldenseal is often used as treatment for eye inflammation. Bring to a boil a cup of water along with goldenseal. After straining the mixture, let it cool. Now, use it to rinse your eyes.

 

Allergy Medicine

45. Claritin

Claritin can lessen the production of histamine, a naturally-occurring substance that causes watery and itchy eyes. Do note though that Claritin contains Loratadine, which some people are allergic to.

46. Zyrtec

Zyrtec (Cetirizine) is often prescribed to people who have symptoms of allergy such as itchy, watery eyes. It works by reducing the body’s histamine levels.

47. Benadryl

Benadryl is used to resolve allergies. Much like other anti-allergy medications, it blocks histamine production to prevent the worsening of symptoms.

48. Allegra

Allegra contains two chemicals: pseudoephedrine and fexofenadine. Fexofenadine treats itchy and watery eyes, while pseudoephedrine works on ear and nose clogging.

49. Tavist

Tavist is used to relieve rashes, hay fever, and eye irritation. It also reduces the amount of histamine in the body to relieve the symptoms.

50. Dimetane

Dimetane contains brompheniramine, which lessens the levels of histamine in the body. Dimetane relieves itchiness, redness, and swelling of the eyes.5

51. Chlor-Trimeton

Chlor-Trimeton works like Benadryl, but the former doesn’t induce drowsiness as much as the latter. Chlor-Trimeton provides four hours of relief from common allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, redness, as well as itching.