Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash - 300ml

What Is Optrex Eye Wash and How Does It Help?

Your eyes put up with a lot every day — screens, air conditioning, pollen, dust, and everything in between. When they start to feel gritty, tired, or irritated, a gentle rinse can make a real difference. Optrex eye wash has been a trusted name in eye care for decades, and the Multi Action Eye Wash 300ml is one of the most widely used over-the-counter eye cleansing products in the UK. It's designed to cleanse, soothe, and refresh eyes that have been exposed to everyday irritants. You can find it alongside other eye care products at Cured Pharmacy, available for just £7.49.

The 300ml bottle gives you a generous supply, and it comes with a handy eye bath cup so you can use it straight away. Whether your eyes are reacting to hay fever, a dusty environment, chlorine from swimming, or simply too many hours in front of a screen, this wash offers a straightforward, non-medicated way to rinse away the problem.

How Does Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash Work?

The mechanism is refreshingly simple. The wash works by physically flushing irritants from the surface of the eye and the inner eyelid. Here's what happens when you use it:

• The solution floods the ocular surface, loosening and washing away particles such as dust, pollen, and chlorine.
• Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), the active ingredient, provides mild astringent and soothing properties that help calm redness and discomfort.
• The buffered, slightly acidic pH of the solution is formulated to be compatible with the natural tear film, reducing the risk of further irritation.
• Blinking during the wash helps distribute the solution across the entire eye surface, including under the eyelids where particles often collect.

It's worth noting that this is a cleansing wash rather than a medicated eye drop. It doesn't treat infections or conditions like conjunctivitis — it simply removes surface irritants and helps restore comfort.

Who Should Use Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash?

This product is suitable for most adults and children over two years of age who experience mild, non-infectious eye irritation. It's particularly useful if you regularly encounter environments that aggravate your eyes. People who may benefit include:

• Those with hay fever or seasonal allergies causing itchy, watery eyes.
• Office workers or gamers experiencing digital eye strain and dryness.
• Swimmers whose eyes are irritated by chlorine or pool chemicals.
• Anyone exposed to dusty, smoky, or polluted environments.

It is not suitable for use if you have an eye infection, a known allergy to any of the ingredients, or if you have recently had eye surgery. Always read the label before use.

How Does Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash Compare to Other Eye Rinses?

Is Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

Once opened, the bottle should be used within 28 days. Store it below 25°C and keep it away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. The eye bath cup should be rinsed with clean water after each use and allowed to dry naturally — never share it with another person, as this could spread infection. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this Optrex eye wash and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft lenses. If you're managing broader eye health concerns alongside seasonal allergies, you might also want to explore our allergy and hay fever range for complementary relief options.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash and What Is It Used For?

Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash is an over-the-counter ocular cleansing solution containing witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). It is used to cleanse, soothe, and refresh eyes that have become irritated, tired, or uncomfortable due to exposure to everyday environmental factors. These include dust, pollen, smoke, chlorine, and prolonged screen use. The NHS notes that irritated eyes are extremely common and are often caused by environmental triggers rather than infection — making a gentle cleansing wash a practical first-line option for many people.

This product is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription. It is not a treatment for eye infections, glaucoma, or any diagnosed ocular condition.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash?

Before using this product, check the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

• Do not use if you have a known allergy to witch hazel or any other listed ingredient.
• Do not use if you have an eye infection — seek advice from a pharmacist or GP first.
• Do not use if you have had recent eye surgery without consulting your surgeon.
• Do not use in children under 2 years of age.
• Remove contact lenses before use; wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft lenses.
• Do not use if the bottle seal is broken or tampered with.
• If you experience eye pain, sudden vision changes, or severe redness, stop use immediately and seek medical advice.
• Consult your GP or midwife before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Regarding drug interactions, no clinically significant interactions with systemic medicines have been identified for topically applied witch hazel eye wash. However:

• Do not use simultaneously with other eye drops or ointments without advice from a pharmacist.
• If using prescribed eye drops, allow at least 5–10 minutes between applications.

How Should You Use Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash?

Using the eye wash correctly ensures you get the most benefit and avoid introducing further irritation. Follow these steps each time:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle or eye bath.
2. Fill the eye bath to the halfway mark with the Optrex solution.
3. Tilt your head forward and place the eye bath firmly over your open eye.
4. Tilt your head back slowly, keeping the eye bath in place, and blink several times to allow the solution to wash over the entire eye surface.
5. Discard the used solution — never reuse it.
6. Rinse the eye bath with clean water and repeat the process for the other eye using fresh solution.
7. Allow the eye bath to air dry after use.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash?

Side effects with this product are uncommon when used as directed. Most people tolerate it well. However, as with any ocular product, some individuals may notice mild reactions. If you're also managing related symptoms such as nasal congestion or sneezing alongside eye irritation, our ear, nose and throat range may offer additional support.

Common side effects:

• Temporary mild stinging or burning sensation immediately after use
• Brief blurred vision that clears within a few minutes
• Mild watering of the eye

Less common side effects:

• Redness or increased irritation (may indicate sensitivity to an ingredient)
• Swelling of the eyelid
• Persistent discomfort beyond a few minutes after use

If you experience any less common side effects, stop using the product and consult a pharmacist or GP. Severe allergic reactions (such as swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash) are rare but require immediate medical attention.

How Should You Store Optrex Multi Action Eye Wash?

Correct storage helps maintain the integrity of the solution and keeps it safe to use. Follow these guidelines:

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Do not refrigerate.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Discard the solution 28 days after first opening — write the opening date on the bottle.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle.

For a broader range of products to support your eye health and general wellbeing, browse our full eye care collection at Cured Pharmacy.