Winter eye care for contact lens wearers
Winter brings a specific set of challenges for contact lens wearers. Whether you wear optical lenses to correct your vision or coloured lenses to express yourself creatively, the combination of cold weather and indoor heating can cause discomfort. Here, we discuss how best to look after your eyes during cosy season.
How does cold weather affect contact lenses?
Cold, windy conditions reduce humidity levels in the air, making it drier in winter. This is exacerbated by indoor central heating systems, which dry out the air in home and working environments. As a result contact lenses themselves often dry out faster, making the eyes feel irritated or uncomfortable.
How to keep your eyes comfortable in winter
Fortunately there are several things that wearers of optical and coloured contact lenses can do to keep their eyes comfortable in the colder months.
1. Keep eyes hydrated
Regular lubrication is essential for combatting dry eyes in winter. Eyedrops or artificial tears help to keep moisture in the eye, preventing that gritty feeling that often comes with regular contact lens use.
2. Stay hydrated
Drinking lots of water will help your body - and therefore your eyes - to stay hydrated. The NHS recommends an intake of six to eight cups (1.2 - 2.0 litres) of fluid every day.
3. Gently cleanse your eyes
Clean your eyelids once a day with warm water to wipe away any debris or oils that have built up. If you wear eye makeup, be sure to remove it before bed.
4. Use a heat compress
A heat compress can help to relieve discomfort and promote healthy eyes by loosening clogged oil in the tear ducts and soothing tired eye muscles. Simply place a warm flannel over the eyes for five to ten minutes or invest in a warming eye mask, which can be placed in the microwave for a few seconds and applied for up to ten minutes.
5. Wear sunglasses
We normally associate sunglasses with summer, but a pair of shades with a pale lens colour can help to protect your eyes from cold air and wind in winter. Wearing sunglasses will also help protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
6. Increase humidity indoors
Keeping your home toasty warm in winter means turning the central heating up. This dries out the air inside but you can offset it with a humidifier, which will replace some of the moisture in the air and help to keep your eyes hydrated.
7. Wear glasses more
If you wear your contact lenses daily or for long periods of time, consider switching to glasses more often. For example, you could remove your lenses as soon as you get home from work instead of waiting until bed time, or wear glasses on days when you’re staying inside.
Winter eye care at The Eye Establishment
Here at The Eye Establishment, we provide comprehensive sight tests, contact lens checks and advice on caring for your eyes. Contact us today for advice on contact lenses use and general eyecare, or to make an appointment with our expert opticians.