When your eyes itch, you may have the urge to rub them. But don't do it, because scratching or rubbing will only worsen your eye irritation. So, what can you do to get help from eye tingling? There are various types of home remedies that could give a break from irritated eyes.

Itchy eyes are often caused by some kind of allergy. Remember that many eye conditions can cause blurred vision, including pink eye, allergies, and dry eyes. Many allergic symptoms may be associated with itchy eyes, like stuffy nose, sneezing, and coughing.

According to a recent market analysis by Grand View Research, the global eye health supplements market size was valued at USD 1.82 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.06% from 2024 to 2030 [1]. This growth is largely attributed to increasing consumer awareness about eye health and a rising preference for natural remedies.

Interestingly, the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) reports that allergies affect more than 50 million Americans annually, with eye allergies being one of the most common complaints [2][3]. This presents a significant opportunity for businesses in this sector.

In this blog post, let's delve into various quick-to-do home remedies to treat itchy eyes and also look at the latest innovations in the eye health market.

Cold Compress

A cold compress is one of the simplest yet most effective remedies for itchy eyes. The coolness helps constrict blood vessels, reducing inflammation and providing instant relief. To use, soak a clean cloth in cold water, squeeze it out, and place it gently over your closed eyes for 5-10 minutes. This age-old remedy has inspired a wave of innovation in the eye care market. Companies like Optase [4] have developed advanced cooling eye masks that combine the benefits of cold therapy with soothing herbal extracts. These products have seen a remarkable increase in sales over the past year, reflecting a growing consumer preference for convenient, natural solutions.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers aren't just for fancy spas anymore. These cool vegetables contain antioxidants and flavonoids that can reduce swelling and irritation. For a quick remedy, refrigerate a cucumber, cut two thin slices, and place them on your closed eyelids for about 10 minutes. The beauty industry has taken note of cucumber's soothing properties. Brands like YesTo have launched cucumber eye gel patches, seeing an impressive surge in sales in early 2024 [5]. These products offer the benefits of cucumber in a convenient, ready-to-use form.

Tea Bags

Tea isn't just for drinking, it's also a powerhouse for eye health. The tannins in tea possess anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can soothe itchy, irritated eyes. For best results, soak two tea bags in hot water, allow them to cool (or refrigerate for extra soothing power), then place them on your closed eyes for 15-20 minutes. This simple home remedy has steeped its way into the commercial market. Companies like Teacurry have developed specialized eye care tea blends designed for both drinking and use as compresses [6]. These innovative products have seen a steady year-over-year growth in the natural health category.

Rosewater

Rosewater, with its gentle astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, can be a soothing balm for itchy eyes. To use, soak cotton pads in pure rosewater and place them on your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes, or use rosewater as eye drops (ensuring it's sterile and suitable for ophthalmic use). The beauty industry is in full bloom with rosewater products. Companies like Kama Ayurveda have launched successful rosewater-based eye care lines [7], tapping into a market projected to reach $921 million by 2032, growing at a 7.6% CAGR [8].

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, nature's soothing gel, is a versatile remedy for itchy eyes. Its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties can provide relief from irritation and dryness. To use, carefully extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf, mix it with a bit of cold water, and apply the diluted solution around your eyes using a clean cotton ball. Avoid getting it directly in your eyes. The aloe vera market has seen significant growth, with the global market expected to reach $1.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% [9]. This surge in demand has led to innovations in aloe vera cultivation, with some businesses investing in sustainable farming practices to ensure a steady supply of this versatile plant.

Potatoes

Potatoes might seem an unlikely eye care solution, but they contain enzymes and astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and soothe itchiness. To use, grate a chilled potato and place the grated pieces in a clean cloth. Gently press this poultice over your closed eyes for about 15 minutes. While less common in commercial products, potatoes have inspired niche market innovations. Brands like oldschoolrituals have begun developing potato-based eye masks, targeting consumers looking for all-natural, food-derived skincare solutions [10]

Castor Oil

Castor oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can be a soothing treatment for itchy eyes. Apply a drop or two of high-quality, cold-pressed castor oil to your eyelids before bed, being careful not to get it in your eyes. The growing popularity of castor oil eye treatments has led to increased investment in castor oil production, particularly in India, which accounts for 86% of the world's castor oil exports [12], creating economic opportunities in agricultural communities.

Vegetable juices

Vegetable juices, mainly carrots and spinach, can help treat itchy eyes from the inside out. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C, essential for eye health. Drink a glass of fresh carrot or spinach juice (or a blend of both) twice daily. The growing interest in vegetable juice blends for eye health has also boosted the demand for organic and locally sourced vegetables, creating opportunities for small-scale farmers and organic producers.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel, a natural astringent, can help reduce inflammation and soothe itchy eyes. Extracted from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel shrub, this herbal remedy has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. To use, soak a cotton ball in pure witch hazel and gently dab it on your closed eyelids. This can help relieve irritation and calm the delicate skin around the eyes.

Chilled Spoon

For a simple, cost-free remedy, try the chilled spoon technique. Place two metal spoons in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, then gently press the backs of the chilled spoons against your closed eyes. The cold metal helps reduce swelling and provides quick relief from itching. While not a product in itself, this simple remedy has inspired innovations in the beauty tool market. This trend has also led to collaborations between beauty brands and metallurgical companies to develop advanced, skin-friendly metal alloys for these tools.

In conclusion, these natural remedies offer more than just relief for itchy eyes, they represent a growing market where traditional wisdom meets modern innovation. As more people look for natural solutions, businesses that combine traditional remedies with convenience and effectiveness will likely do well in this growing market. Whether you're reaching for a cool cucumber slice or a specialized rosewater eye product, remember that you're part of a global shift toward natural eye care. So the next time your eyes feel itchy, you can find relief knowing that nature and an innovative market, has your back.