Corneal Lens Corporation (CLC) is bringing the benefits of time-tested silk proteins in eye-drop form with the launch of Evolve Silk, a preservative-free drop designed to repair the corneal epithelium.

“We are excited to bring Evolve Silk to the New Zealand market and believe this is the first product of its kind in New Zealand and Australia,” said CLC optometrist and technical consultant Andrew Kim. “Silk proteins have been shown to be beneficial in the repair of damaged corneal epithelium and using cross-linked carboxymethyl cellulose and silk proteins, UK manufacturer Medicom Healthcare has created a preservative-free combination to deliver silk proteins to the damaged tissue.”

In vitro, the silk-derived protein enhances corneal epithelial migration, adhesion and proliferation, said Medicom. Studies have shown that Evolve Silk improves symptoms and ocular surface health in dry eye patients with corneal injury (tear film breakup time +40.7% and Ocular Surface Disease Index -52.9%). For patients who underwent photorefractive keratectomy and corneal crosslinking, Evolve Silk was shown to accelerate corneal re-epithelialisation, completing corneal healing within 24–48 hours, with the potential to improve visual outcomes, reduce infection risk and minimise long-term complications, the company said.

The familiar squeeze-bottle dropper design has an elongated tip for ease of use and precision. One bottle contains 10ml (250 drops). The product is compatible with contact lens wear and can be used by adults and children.