Frequently Asked Questions

Prescription eye medications are FDA-approved to treat specific eye diseases and conditions. They undergo rigorous clinical trials to prove safety and effectiveness for treating particular conditions. Over-the-counter eye supplements are considered dietary supplements, not medications. They're not FDA-approved to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Instead, they provide nutritional support for overall eye health. While supplements can be beneficial, they shouldn't replace prescribed medical treatments, and you should inform your doctor about all supplements you're taking.

Lutein is a carotenoid antioxidant that concentrates in the macula of the eye. It acts as a natural blue light filter, protecting the retina from harmful high-energy light waves. Research shows lutein helps maintain macular health, may reduce the risk of certain eye diseases, and can improve visual performance in some conditions. The body cannot produce lutein naturally, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements. Dark leafy greens, egg yolks, and colorful fruits are good dietary sources of lutein.

The timeframe for noticing benefits from eye supplements varies considerably depending on the supplement, individual health factors, and what you're hoping to achieve. Generally, it takes consistent use for at least 3-6 months to build up sufficient levels in the body to notice changes. For some benefits like reduced eye fatigue or improved contrast sensitivity, some people report improvements within 4-8 weeks. For conditions like age-related macular degeneration, supplements are more about long-term prevention and maintenance rather than immediate improvements.

Most eye supplements are formulated for adults. Children typically get sufficient eye nutrients through a balanced diet. However, certain situations like restrictive diets or specific eye conditions might warrant supplementation under professional guidance. Always consult a pediatrician or pediatric ophthalmologist before giving eye supplements to children, as nutrient needs and safe dosages differ significantly from adults. Some ingredients like vitamin A can be harmful to children in high doses. If supplementation is recommended, choose products specifically formulated for children's needs and dosages.

Eye supplements cannot reverse existing vision loss or structural eye damage. However, certain supplements may help slow the progression of some age-related eye conditions and support overall eye health. The AREDS and AREDS2 studies showed that specific formulations may reduce the risk of progression in people with intermediate age-related macular degeneration. Always consult with an eye care professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have existing eye conditions.

Blue light is high-energy visible light that can penetrate deep into the eye. While natural blue light from the sun helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle, prolonged exposure to artificial blue light from digital devices may contribute to digital eye strain, causing symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Some research suggests that chronic blue light exposure might contribute to retinal damage over time. Lutein and zeaxanthin act as natural blue light filters in the eye, which is why they're often recommended supplements for people with high screen time.