The holiday season brings joy, but it can also cast some challenges for your precious peepers. Sweet treats, eggnog, festive parties and twinkly lights can all take their toll, leaving you with dry, red and bleary eyes. Keep your vision merry and bright with these festive eye care tips.
Are LED Christmas lights bad for your eyes?
You’re not alone in wondering, are LED Christmas lights bad for your eyes. The charming twinkle of holiday lights may add to the festive cheer, but they can also strain your peepers. In brightly lit environments, such as rooms bedecked with dazzling displays, consider moving away or dimming the lights when possible.
Taking short breaks from the intense luminance can give your eyes a rest. Stepping away from the brightness momentarily allows your eyes to relax, preventing discomfort or strain. If you develop pain or vision loss, see your eyecare provider immediately.
Comfort dry eyes
The crisp, cold winter air might be enchanting, but it’s also remarkably dry. Reduced humidity can lead to decreased tear production and evaporation of tears, which may cause red and irritated eyes.
Combined with central heating and alcohol-fuelled seasonal parties, and you have a recipe for eyes feeling as parched as the Sahara. Here are some tips to combat this discomfort.
Use a humidifier at home
Don’t forget that central heating can also make indoor air very dry. This dry air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms and discomfort, especially if you spend a lot of time indoors, sheltered from bad winter weather.
Try to avoid sitting directly in front of any hot air currents and away from open fires or wood burners to prevent dry eyes. A humidifier introduces moisture into the air, preventing your eyes from drying out.
Carry contact lens-friendly eye drops
Lubricating eye drops can provide relief and maintain the moisture balance in your eyes. Just make sure your preferred eye drops are compatible with contact lenses. If you have been prescribed any medicated eye drops, please check with your prescriber before using them while wearing your lenses.
Go easy on the eggnog…
The holiday season often invites merry celebrations, complete with festive spirits. However, overindulging in alcoholic beverages can lead to dehydration, affecting not only your overall wellbeing but also your eyes’ moisture.
For every round of eggnog or celebratory toast, balance it out with a glass of water. Staying well hydrated will keep your eyes in good shape and ensure they're not affected by the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
… and drink lots of water
Staying hydrated is crucial during the winter. Dehydration can affect not only your overall wellbeing but also your eye comfort when wearing contact lenses. Cold, dry air and central heating will quickly dry out your skin, hair and eyes more quickly.
Drink plenty of water to maintain your body’s hydration levels, which can help keep your eyes moist and comfortable. Remember, warming immune-boosting ginger and turmeric tea, indulgent hot chocolate with cinnamon and hearty winter soups all count.
Break up the movie marathons
In this digital age, holiday shopping or enjoying festive movies often means extended screen time. Hours spent scrolling for perfect gifts or binge-watching seasonal films can strain your eyes.
Remember the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break. Look away from your screen and focus on something situated about 20 feet away.
This simple habit offers a mini-vacation for your eyes, reducing strain and preventing discomfort. Here’s the low-down on eyes and screens: how to avoid eye strain.
Moderate the sweet treats
We know, we know – we can’t stay away from sugar cookies, mashed potatoes and cornbread, either. But overindulging in too many sugary or fat-laden foods will weaken your immune system, leading to colds, flu and eye infections.
By all means, chow down on the treats and second helpings of Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, but make sure you load your plate with a rainbow of vibrant fruits and veggies. Now is the time to lean into brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips, red cabbage, lean meats like turkey and omega-3-rich foods such as smoked salmon. Find out more about Which Foods Are Good For Your Eyes.
All partied out?
Have some shut-eye! The holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and family, but do factor in some time to rest as well as party. Remember that quality sleep is your greatest ally, significantly aiding your eyes’ rejuvenation and alleviating the discomfort associated with dry eyes.
Improved sleep quality makes it much simpler for your eyes to adapt to contact lenses. By prioritising overall body rest, you’ll be more energised in general.
Protect your eyes from the white stuff
While the glistening snow creates a magical winter wonderland, it's important to remember that it reflects harmful UV rays, potentially impacting your eyes. Shield your eyes from this reflection by donning UV-protective sunglasses when outside, even in snowy conditions. This simple step keeps your eyes safe from the glare and harmful effects of UV exposure, preserving their health.
By being mindful of these eye care tips, you can safeguard your vision and keep your eyes sparkling throughout the holiday season. Remember, your eyes deserve some festive TLC, too. Happy holidays!
