Edited by Keith Ngan MRPharmS
Dry eye symptoms continue to affect millions of people worldwide, and research published over the past year has significantly expanded our understanding of why dry eyes develop and how they can be better supported. With increased screen use, environmental exposure and an ageing population, dry eye research remained a major focus throughout 2025.
Rather than offering generic advice, recent findings have provided clearer evidence around inflammation, tear film stability and the role of nutrition in supporting long-term eye comfort.
Below, we explore what 2025 research has revealed and how nutritional supplements for dry eyes are being discussed in a more evidence-led way.
What 2025 research tells us about dry eyes
In early 2025, a large review published in The Ocular Surface analysed more than a decade of dry eye studies and confirmed that dry eye disease is primarily driven by tear film instability and chronic low-grade inflammation. The review reinforced that dry eyes are rarely caused by reduced tear volume alone, shifting focus towards tear quality and evaporation.
This aligns with updated clinical guidance released by the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS), which continues to influence dry eye research and management approaches in 2025. The guidance emphasises addressing contributing factors such as inflammation, environmental exposure and nutritional status rather than relying solely on symptomatic relief.
Inflammation remains a key driver
Several studies published in 2025 have continued to explore inflammation as a central mechanism in dry eye development. A clinical review published in Frontiers in Medicine highlighted how inflammatory markers on the ocular surface disrupt tear stability and worsen symptoms over time.
The authors noted growing interest in nutritional strategies that support normal inflammatory balance, rather than aggressive suppression. This has increased attention on nutritional supplements for dry eyes as part of a broader, long-term support approach.
Omega fatty acids: updated evidence from 2025
Omega fatty acids have long been associated with eye comfort, but research published in 2025 has provided more nuanced insight into how they may support dry eye symptoms. A randomised controlled trial published in Nutrients examined the effects of balanced omega supplementation on tear film quality and symptom severity.
The findings suggested that consistent intake was associated with improvements in tear stability rather than immediate symptom resolution. The researchers emphasised that formulation, dosage balance and duration of use were critical factors, reinforcing the importance of well-designed supplements.
Oxidative stress and eye surface protection
Oxidative stress remained a significant research theme in 2025. A review published in Antioxidants examined how environmental exposure, digital screen use and ageing increase oxidative stress on the ocular surface.
The review highlighted that antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, along with carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, may help protect ocular tissues by neutralising free radicals. While not positioned as a standalone solution, antioxidant support was identified as a valuable component of broader eye health strategies.
Micronutrients revisited in 2025 studies
Several publications in 2025 revisited the role of micronutrients in tear production and ocular surface health. Research published in Clinical Ophthalmology explored how vitamin A, zinc and certain B vitamins contribute to maintaining healthy eye tissues.
The authors noted that while severe deficiencies are uncommon in developed countries, marginal intake may still influence tear stability and comfort in susceptible individuals. This has reinforced interest in multi-nutrient formulations rather than single-ingredient products.
Screen use, blinking and modern eye strain
Digital eye strain remains highly relevant in 2025. A study published in BMJ Open Ophthalmology examined blink rate and tear evaporation during prolonged screen use.
The study confirmed that reduced blink frequency significantly contributes to tear instability and dryness. While behavioural changes such as regular breaks remain essential, the research acknowledged growing interest in nutritional approaches that may help support tear film resilience in high screen-use populations.
Supplement quality and formulation
An emerging theme across 2025 research is the importance of supplement quality. Reviews published this year have highlighted that ingredient form, sourcing and bioavailability directly influence effectiveness and safety.
Researchers increasingly stress that nutritional supplements for dry eyes should be transparent, evidence-informed and designed for consistent use, rather than positioned as short-term fixes.
What makes 2025 different
What sets 2025 apart is not a single breakthrough, but a clearer scientific consensus. Research published this year has strengthened agreement around three key principles:
- Dry eye is multifactorial and long-term
- Nutrition supports tear quality rather than replacing clinical care
- Balanced, well-formulated supplements matter more than isolated nutrients
This represents a shift away from trend-driven solutions towards sustainable, science-led eye care strategies.
Final thoughts
Research published in 2025 has deepened our understanding of dry eyes and the factors that influence eye comfort. From inflammation and oxidative stress to tear film stability, current evidence supports a more holistic and balanced approach to eye health.
By staying informed and choosing evidence-led nutritional supplements for dry eyes, individuals can make confident decisions rooted in current research. At Vision Defender, we believe transparency, science-led nutrition and informed choices play a key role in supporting long-term eye comfort.
If you would like to explore eye health supplements developed in line with the latest research, discover Vision Defender’s science-led formulations designed to support everyday dry eye comfort.