11 Best Warm Compresses For Eye Problems To Try In 2024

Reviewed by Simone de Vlaming, Beauty Expert Simone de Vlaming Simone de VlamingBeauty Expert facebook_icontwitter_iconlinkedin_iconyoutube_icon
Written by , MSc Shreya Vishwanathan MSc Experience: 4 years
Edited by , Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by , MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Experience: 5 years
Last Updated on
All products recommended on thebridalbox are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process.

Using a warm compress for the eyes can heal several eye problems. Eye problems can be as simple as itchiness or as severe as something that might need medical attention. Even when eyes feeling watery is something we face regularly, our immediate reaction is to rub it to the point when we can see floaters swimming in our eyes. A warm compress can help you heal the eye problems at the base to keep such problems at bay. It also offers a great relief against eye redness, inflammation, dryness, styes, blepharitis, pink eye, and allergies. The simple mechanism of absorbing excess moisture by using a warm compress for your eyes helps solve most eye problems at home. It gives immediate relief, and once you feel better, you can decide whether or not it will need further medical attention. A warm compress is recommended by doctors and is like first aid to aching eyes. So, if you have sensitive eyes showing discomfort with every changing season, getting yourself a warm compress is the easiest way to beat the problem. All you need to do is heat the compress in the microwave, and once it is at a comfortable temperature, put it over your eyes and let it soak the heat. Ready to explore relaxation techniques for the eyes? Here are the 11 highest-rated warm compresses to choose from. Scroll down!

[table “5025” not found /]

What Does A Warm Compress Do For Eyes

A warm compress for eyes soothes and provides instant rejuvenation and relief from irritation, grittiness, dryness, and pain. As the compress contains moisture, it hydrates the eyes removing dry eye symptoms, and the warmth of the compress soothes the eye and relieves any spasm or pain caused by dry eyes. They also drain the eyelid glands, and improve oil gland function by loosening the clogged oil which mixes with tears, enhancing their quality.

Relax Your Eyes With 11 Best Warm Compresses Of 2021

1. Best For Sensitive Skin:Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress

4.4
Bruder Moist Heat Eye Mask Image: Bruder

Give your eyes a much-deserved rejuvenating spa with this soothing warm compress that applies just the right amount of heat and moisture to your tired eyes. Reviewers love the product because this warm compress for eyes applies uniform moisture and heat for 10 to 15 minutes, giving instant relief. Using medibeads technology, this eye compress absorbs atmospheric moisture and releases moist heat when microwaved for about 20 seconds, which is extremely soothing for itchy and dry eyes. Completely natural and anti-bacterial, they are extremely safe to use on delicate and sensitive eyes. It can be used to treat conditions like styes, dry eye, inflammation, discomfort, blepharitis, or general relaxation and wellness. They can be reused and just need to be washed by hand when required.

Material: Styes | Color: Original Version | Product Dimensions: 3.54 x 1.97 x 0.39 inches | Weight: 3.53 Ounces

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Anti-bacterial
  • Non-toxic
  • Latex-free
  • Microwave activated
  • Naturally moisturizing
  • Washable and reusable

Cons

  • Some feel that it could hold heat better.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 17,112 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

2. Best Hydrating:Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask

4.4

Get a sparkle in your eyes with this warm eye compress that uses gel beads and Hydro Heat technology that absorbs atmospheric moisture and releases it as moist heat. This is an extremely natural form of hydration for your eyes and reduces puffiness and gives relief from painful styes. This reusable eye mask can be reused after being hand washed and just needs to be heated in the microwave for 20 seconds before being placed on your eyelids for about 10 minutes. It can be used on both eyes together and features an elastic band to keep it in place. Reviewers love that it comes with a handy storage pouch that helps keep your mask safe and clean till the next time you need it.

Number of Items: 1

Pros

  • No water required
  • Soft material
  • Odor-free
  • Long-lasting
  • Even heat distribution
  • Ready for use in 20 seconds
  • Reusable and washable
  • Velcro closure on elastic band

Cons

  • Some feel that the compress pad gives out sand-like particles.
protip_icon Quick Tip
Handwash this product using lukewarm water to use it for a long time.

3. Best For Reducing Redness:Aroma Season Heated Eye Mask

4.2

If you are looking for an effective hot compress for eyes that gives moist heat to treat dry eyes, styes, blepharitis, chalazion, and clogged eye glands, this is the product for you. Comprising cotton and flax seeds, this natural eye mask provides consistent heat for as long as you need. As your eyelids get heated, the gland immediately unclogs giving you immediate relief from swelling, redness, and irritation. Its LED display unit allows you to set the time, temperature, and switch it off and on. The mask temperature features 3 settings between 104℉ to 140℉, 3 timings of 20, 40, and 60 seconds, and switches off when it’s done. It can be conveniently powered by a power bank, USB port, or phone charger. This video takes you through a tester’s experience with the product and some specific details encompassing its features.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 7.28 x 1.97 x 0.71 inches | Weight: 7.2 Ounces.

Pros

  • Washable cover
  • Flexible strap to adjust tightness
  • Enhances blood circulation
  • Breathable and gentle on skin
  • Soft, smooth, and comfortable to wear

Cons

  • The display unit may heat up in some cases.
Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress
Best For Sensitive Skin
Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask
Best Hydrating
Aroma Season Heated Eye Mask
Best For Reducing Redness
Material Styes--
Color Original Version--
Dimensions 3.54 x 1.97 x 0.39 inches- 7.28 x 1.97 x 0.71 inches
Weight 3.53 Ounces- 7.2 Ounces.
Number of Items- 1 1
Rating
Reviews17,1121124,885
Price$17.3$9.99$28.99
Buy NowBuy NowBuy Now

4. Best Soothing Therapy:Heyedrate Heated Eye Mask

4.4

For relief from crusted eyelids, light sensitivity, and irritated, itchy eyes, this hot eye compress is the perfect answer. Extremely relaxing and comfortable, this reusable compress offers both cold and warm therapy for a soothing experience, and makes a perfect dry eye relief compress. All you need to do is microwave it for 15 to 20 seconds and place the warm compress on your eyes for 15 to 20 minutes. You can also place it in the freezer for 2 hours and place it over your eyes for 15 minutes for allergies and sinus issues. Many reviews indicate that it is easy on the eyes and can also be used without heat or cold, for a restful night’s sleep. It can be wiped with a wet cloth for cleaning and reused when it dries. The fit is customized with a soft elastic strap so it doesn’t slip. However, prior to use, always test the temperature of the pack. Using it when overheated or for an extended duration may result in injury, such as burns.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 10 x 4.5 x 0.5 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces

Pros

  • Reusable
  • Customized fit
  • Easy on the eyes
  • Soothing, comfortable design

Cons

  • Some feel it could stay warm longer.

5. Best Anti-Aging:ProCIV Steam Eye Masks

4.3

Pamper your eyes with this warm compress for eyes that doesn’t require an electric plug or microwave. It heats automatically when you put it on and is extremely comfortable and relaxing. Made of natural cotton, elastic cotton material, and medical fabric craft, the temperature of this warming eye mask ranges between 104℉ to 113℉. Since it’s not much higher than body temperature, it’s soothingly warm and helps you to relax while sleeping. In-depth reviews from users have highlighted its effectiveness in relieving a variety of eye issues, including eye strain, dry eye, puffy eyes, styes, blepharitis, allergies, itchy eyes, and pink eye. The moisturizing heat also enhances blood circulation and gives instant relief from migraines, headaches, and dark circles. The soft, elastic material conforms to the shape of your face and each mask lasts for approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

Skin Type: Dry

Pros

  • Moisturizes the skin around the eyes
  • Reduces fine lines and dark circles
  • Ensures better sleep
  • Features a ear strap
  • Skin-friendly
  • Doctor-recommended

Cons

  • Some feel it has a strong scent.

protip_icon Quick Tip
If your eyes get easily irritated, you can keep a few of this product in your purse for instant relief anywhere.

6. Best For Dry Eyes:Stye Eye Therapy Warming Compress

4.2

The Stye Eye Therapy Warming Compress soothes dry eyes. The compress comprises non-toxic, soft-gel beads. It is microwaveable and reusable. It relieves symptoms of burning, stinging, and common eye discomforts in an instant. In addition, the compress cover is easy to clean. Many reviews indicate that it has to be applied to your eyes three to six times a day for 5-10 minutes.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 1 x 2.75 x 4.5 inches | Weight: 2.08 Ounces.

Pros

  • Non-toxic
  • Reusable
  • Microwave-safe
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Not durable

My Personal Experience

"This eye compress is very effective for eye stye treatment. It brings instant relief and I love the fact that it is reusable. I have had around 25-30 uses. It even cleans well."


7. Best For Irritated Eyes:Mediviz Warm Compress Eye Mask

4.4

Give your eyes that much-needed home spa relief from crusty, irritated eyes, allergies, puffiness, and itchy eyes. This reusable cold or warm compress for irritated eyes, tested on patients, offers both cold and warm therapy for the eyes and is extremely comfortable and relaxing. The heated compress is very helpful in unclogging eye glands so that they function properly. Just microwave for 15 to 20 seconds and place the warm compress over your eyes for 15 to 20 minutes, or freeze it for 2 hours and place it on your eyes for 15 minutes. It also includes a removable, hand-washable cover to maintain hygiene for your eyes, and an elastic velcro strap which is adjustable to all head sizes.

Number of Items: 1 | Product Dimensions: 10 x 4.5 x 0.5 inches | Weight: 7.37 Ounces

Pros

  • Offers both warm and cold therapy
  • Reusable
  • Hand washable
  • Adjustable strap

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin

8. Best For Blepharitis:Kimkoo Eye Compress

4.4
Kimkoo Eye Compress Image: Kimkoo

The Kimkoo Moist Heat Eye Compress is filled with natural flaxseed that has a high heat storage and heat transfer capacity. You can microwave the compress for 30-50 seconds during which the flaxseed releases the stored moisture. The hot vapor generated from the compress offers intensive compression to the eyes. The compress stabilizes the lacrimal membrane and restores the natural defenses of the eyes by boosting oil gland secretion and preventing tear evaporation. It also relieves eye fatigue, dryness, wrinkles, and treats dry eye issues like blepharitis. The compress features an adjustable elastic strap which helps you wear it comfortably.

Color: Purple

Pros

  • Washable
  • Microwave-safe
  • Reusable
  • Non-allergenic
  • Anti-bacterial
  • Adjustable elastic strap

Cons

  • Has an unpleasant smell

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 3,717 rave reviews on Amazon.

9. Best Mold-Resistant:Ticlo’s Moist Heat Mask

4.4

This weighted warm steam mask releases 2 times the moisture than most eye compress pads, enhancing the hydration and soothing the eyes. As a bonus, it comes with 30 eyelid wipes that are enriched with aloe vera and vitamin E to clean the eyelids and around the eyes. The thermal bead pouch can be removed from the mask, which is washable and easy to clean, so that it’s always fresh. The plush pouch also features double stitched edges so that the beads cannot spill out. You just need to microwave the eye pad for 30 seconds to 2 minutes and place it on your eyes for a warm, moisturizing experience for dry and tired eyes or just to relax, and it also makes the perfect warm compress for puffy eyes. The product has been rigorously tested to ensure its reliability and effectiveness.

Material: Silk

Pros

  • Mold-resistant
  • Odorless
  • Sterile beads
  • Adjustable velcro strap
  • Heat retaining glass thermal bead filling
  • Includes 30 bonus eye wipes

Cons

  • May stain sheets
  • Some may find the mask bulky.

10. Best For Tired Eyes:Dr. Prepare Heated Eye Mask

Give your eyes some pampering with this warm compress for eyes that has a cotton exterior, is large sized, and has a flat design. Its soothing heat gives instant relief from tiredness, dry eyes, and stress. Its intuitive smart controller features 4 heat levels ranging between 95°F to 122°F, 4 time settings between 10 to 30 minutes, and an automatic shut down. It has a velvet underside, an adjustable elastic band, and a small plastic buckle to fit all head sizes. It can also just be used as an eye pad for sleeping to cut out unwanted light. It can be powered by power banks, laptops, and car chargers. It’s extremely easy to wash and can be used time and again.

Material: Cotton | Color: Gray

Pros

  • Enlarged nose cutout
  • Cotton exterior and velvet backing
  • Adjustable elastic band with buckle
  • Includes foam earplugs
  • Includes a storage bag
  • Features 4 heat levels
  • Features 4 time settings

Cons

  • Some feel the cord isn’t long enough and is restricted to one side of the mask.

11. Best Automatic Heating:Eyegiene Hot Eye Compress Wafers

These hassle-free eye compress wafers don’t require to be microwaved or heated. These travel-ready, portable, and sealed warming wafers automatically begin heating up to the perfect temperature the moment they are removed from the pouch. They apply perfect heat and pressure to give immediate relief from styes, dry eyes, chalazion, blepharitis, strain, meibomian gland dysfunction, and fatigue. Just insert the wafers into the Eyegiene compress, and they will heat themselves to the perfect temperature. They are designed to rejuvenate your eyes with 30 to 45 minutes of heat. This refill set comes with 30 pairs of wafers and is a convenient and natural way to soothe your eyes.

Material: Ferrous Oxide | Number of Items: 1

Pros

  • Doesn’t require heating
  • Very soothing for eyes
  • Heats automatically to the perfect temperature
  • Created by ophthalmologist

Cons

  • May not offer adequate heat

My Personal Experience

"These eye compresses have been super helpful for soothing dryness. They are truly a godsend when a microwave isn't handy. They offer consistent heat and are easy to use, even during travels."


*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Now that you have been through our review of the 11 best warm compresses for eyes, let us give you a few tips on what to keep in mind while choosing one for yourself so that your eyes always feel relaxed and stress-free.

How To Choose A Warm Compress For Eyes

  • Personal requirements

Your personal requirements and your doctor’s advice for your specific eye related problems will decide the kind of warm compress you should go for. For removing debris from your eyes, it is best to use a simple, clean cloth soaked in warm water which will soften the dry skin around your eyes. On the other hand, for a stye, a dry warm compress would be a better option.

  • Dry or moist warm compresses

Warm compresses for eyes can be either dry or moist and your decision would depend on what exactly you need it for. Dry compresses come as products that are designed to be leakproof and give the required warmth while staying dry. A moist compress is a cloth or towel soaked in warm water, wrung out, and then placed for relief to the affected area. Most people find moist compresses more effective for increasing moisture around the eyes and relieving muscle and eye pain.

  • Doctor’s recommendation

The most important thing to consider before you start searching for the best warm compress is what your healthcare specialist recommends. Talking to a medical doctor will give you a clear idea whether your medical issue should be treated by applying cold or hot compresses.

Now that you know how to choose a warm compress for your eyes, it’s as important to know how to use it properly for the best user experience. You know what factors to consider when buying a warm compress for your eyes, so here’s how to correctly use them in order to derive maximum benefit from them.

How To Use A Warm Compress For Eyes

  • Step 1— Close your eyes and apply it straight to the eyes. It can be applied to both your eyes together if the compress is big enough.
  • Step 2— Hold it to your eyes till you feel the symptoms reducing and your eyes feel comfortable.
  • Step 3— When the compress gets cold, reheat it in the microwave or soak it again in warm water and reapply as often as you find necessary.

Now that you know how to use a warm compress properly, let us go through some of the benefits that this popular home remedy offers.

Benefits Of A Warm Compress For Eyes

  • Warm compresses improve circulation in the eye, unclog swollen eyelids, and soothe inflammation, and are therefore used for treating several eye conditions.
  • A warm compress is very commonly used for treating styes which occur when there’s a swelling in a localized part of the eyelid due to infection or blockage in the gland. They soften the clogged oil causing the blockage and help to drain it.
  • They are very helpful in relieving the symptoms of blepharitis, which is a swelling of the entire eyelid.
  • Swelling in eyelids can also occur because of other reasons like allergies, injuries, orbital cellulitis, or bug bites, and warm compresses offer a lot of relief.
  • In the case of dry eyes, the warm compress helps your tear glands to work better and hydrate them.
  • Pink eye or conjunctivitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, or allergy and results in the inflammation of the inner conjunctiva of the eye. Warm compresses help with relieving itchiness, pain, inflammation, and discharge.
  • A black eye results in bruising, inflammation, pain, subcutaneous bleeding, and discoloration around the eye, caused by some trauma. A warm compress relieves the pain of a black eye.

Infographic: How Warm Compresses Can Help With Dry Eyes

Applying gentle heat to the eyes promotes relaxation and soothes eye inflammation. They treat severe eye itchiness and relieve dryness. The infographic below mentions the ways warm compresses provide instant relief to your eyes. Check it out to know the hype behind these products.

How Warm Compresses Can Help With Dry Eyes (infographic)

Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team

The Bottom Line

Warm compressors help soothe aching eyes while preventing any further discomfort or irritation. They aid in soothing any spasm and reducing clogged oil in large pores around the eyes. For quick microwavable heat therapy, try the Bruder Moist Heat Eye Compress, the Optix 55 Eye Compress Mask to relieve sensitive area of the face, and the Stye Eye Therapy Warming Compress to ease the discomfort of styes and dry eyes. These non-toxic and hypoallergenic warm compressors are extremely safe to use and are a great help for delicate eyes. They also help in treating discomforts like extra eye puffiness and dry eyes. There are many warm compressors that sit gently on your eyes and have a comfortable design. However, while choosing the best warm compressor for yourself, you should steer clear of the ones that do not distribute heat efficiently or fail to boost blood circulation. You can wipe these compressors with wet clothes and reuse them multiple times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is warm compression good for eyes?

Warm compresses reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and unclog the glands of swollen eyelids. In case your eyelid swells because of a stye, blepharitis, or chalazion, the heated compress helps it to drain by thinning the clogged oil. A warm compress also gives quick relief from discomfort or inflammation caused by pinkeye or other infections.

How long should you leave a warm compress on your eyes?

Usually a warm compress is applied for about 5 to 10 minutes and 4 to 6 times a day in the beginning. As your eyes get better, 1 treatment may be enough.

Is a warm compress for eyes good for dry eyes?

Warm eye compresses are very soothing and give almost instant relief from dryness. Warm compresses contain moisture and hydrate the eyes when they are heated. This reduces grittiness, dryness, and muscle spasms and pain is relieved with the warmth of the compress.

When should you apply a warm compress for dryness?

You should initially use a cold compress for about 5 minutes and immediately follow it up with a warm compress. If the discomfort or pain or discomfort continues, you can continue using cold and warm compresses alternately until the symptoms are better.

Can warm compresses damage eyes?

Sometimes, excessive heat can cause corneal scarring,and irreversible damage to the outermost layer of the cornea, called the epithelium. Warm compresses with gentle pressure work wonders in many eye conditions but they need to be used with caution.

Is a warm or cold compress better for swollen eyelids?

A cool compress will reduce the swelling in general, while warm compresses unclog blocked pores and are usually used for the eye treatment of chalazia and styes. If the swelling is caused because of a black eye, infection, or other type of injury, a cold compress should be used as they minimize swelling, puffiness, and reduce pain. Warm compresses soothe inflammation, improve circulation, and unblock swollen glands of the eyelids.

How warm should a warm compress for eyes be?

A warm compress for eyes can be warm, or hot, but not scalding. To determine the temperature, microwave it for no more than 20 seconds. Ideally, the temperature should be around 40 degrees Celsius.

Should a warm compress be wet or dry?

Wet or moist warm compress is generally more effective than the dry ones. You can treat deep muscle tissue pain or muscle soreness with a moist warm compress quicker than a dry warm compress.

Is putting warm compresses on your eyes daily okay?

Yes, it is alright to put warm compresses on your eyes on a daily basis. This soothes dry eye symptoms while reducing swelling.

When is the best time to put a warm compress on your eyes?

There is no specific time to put a warm compress on your eyes. However, many recommend the night time after you are done with your daily chores.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shreya Vishwanathan, is a wellness enthusiast. She researched and reviewed multiple warm compresses for the eyes considering the safety, design, efficiency, and comfort as the key parameters. She also checked user reviews to get an in-depth understanding of their user experience. The pros and cons of the best products have been noted down in this article so that our readers can find the most suitable options for themselves. The shortlisted products on this list offer much-needed relief to aching eyes.


Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our vibrant community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with like-minded individuals.

Simone de Vlaming
Simone de VlamingBeauty Expert
Simone de Vlaming is a beauty expert and founder of Beautymone.com. She specializes in makeup, skin care, fragrances, and nails. Simone decided to start a beauty blog during her graduation to find an outlet for her passion.

Read full bio of Simone de Vlaming
Shreya Vishwanathan
Shreya VishwanathanCommerce Writer
Shreya is a commerce writer who is passionate about reviewing products related to fitness, health, and home. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, and has four years of experience.

Read full bio of Shreya Vishwanathan
Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

Read full bio of Medha Deb
Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Latest Articles