Artelac vs. Hylo: Which German Eye Drop Brand is Better?
The Quick Verdict
Artelac offers a wide range from basic Hypromellose drops (Artelac Classic) to high-concentration Hyaluronic Acid (Artelac Splash MDO) with preservative-free multi-dose options. Hylo specializes exclusively in preservative-free hyaluronic acid drops using the patented COMOD pump system, offering products for different viscosity needs (Hylo-Comod, Hylo-Gel, Hylo-Dual Intense). Hylo is the gold standard for preservative-free technology; Artelac provides more budget-friendly preserved options and unique formulations like Rebalance with PEG.
Standard dropper bottles; preservative-free MDO uses filter
Patented COMOD pump (preservative-free
Viscosity Range
Broad (Hypromellose low → HA 0.24% medium)
Broad (0.1% HA → 0.2% HA gel)
Unique Ingredients
PEG 8000 (Rebalance)
Ectoine (Dual Intense)
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose Artelac (Bausch + Lomb) if...
Users seeking variety—from basic preserved drops (Classic) to advanced dual-moisturizer formulas (Rebalance) to high-dose preservative-free options (Splash MDO). Good for budget-conscious and premium seekers alike.
Choose Hylo (Ursapharm) if...
Users who prioritize preservative-free formulations and want a proven, long-lasting pump system. Excellent for chronic dry eye requiring frequent daily use.
Ingredient Breakdown
Artelac uses multiple active ingredients: Hypromellose (Classic), Hyaluronic Acid (Splash series, 0.2-0.24%), and PEG 8000 (Rebalance). Preservative systems vary from cetrimide (Classic) to oxyd (Splash MDO, preservative-free via filter). Hylo uses exclusively Hyaluronic Acid (0.1-0.2%) with the COMOD system—a physical filter that allows zero preservatives. Hylo-Dual Intense adds Ectoine 2% for lipid layer support. Both brands offer preservative-free options, but Hylo pioneered the technology.
Expert Verdict
Choose Hylo if you need a preservative-free hyaluronic acid drop with a proven, long-lasting bottle that stays sterile for months. Choose Artelac if you want more formulation options (e.g., Rebalance with PEG) or a lower entry price point. Both are excellent German brands—Hylo is the specialist, Artelac is the versatile generalist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand's effects last longer?
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{"type": "root", "children": [{"type": "text", "value": "Hylo-Gel (0.2% high-molecular HA) and Artelac Nighttime Gel (carbomer) both provide extended duration. For daytime use, Hylo-Dual Intense with Ectoine may provide longer relief than standard Artelac Splash due to lipid layer support.","}]}]}
Which is better for severe dry eye?
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{"type": "root", "children": [{"type": "text", "value": "For severe dry eye, Hylo-Gel (high viscosity) or Hylo-Dual Intense (adds Ectoine for inflammation) are excellent. Artelac Rebalance with PEG 8000 also offers long-lasting relief. Both are valid; try one and assess.","}]}]}
Are both brands available preservative-free?
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{"type": "root", "children": [{"type": "text", "value": "Yes. Artelac Splash MDO uses an Oxyfilter (preservative-free via physical barrier). Hylo uses COMOD pump technology. Both offer preservative-free multi-dose bottles, but Hylo pioneered the system and has a wider range.","}]}]}
