Winter air can be harsh on your eyes. You might notice dryness, itchiness, or a gritty sensation after being outside or sitting in a heated room. These symptoms are common in the winter, but there are ways to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. 

Along with professional dry eye treatment in Plymouth, adopting simple habits and protective measures can help your eyes stay comfortable through the colder months. In this blog, we’ll share six tips for managing dry eyes in winter, so that you can see clearly and comfortably all season long.  

1. Keep your eyes hydrated 

Indoor heating and chilly winds can dry out your eyes quickly. Staying hydrated, using preservative-free artificial tears, and applying warm compresses are easy ways to keep your eyes comfortable and refreshed. 

2. Manage screen time 

Spending more time indoors often means extra screen time, whether you’re scrolling on your phone, streaming shows, or catching up on work. To give your eyes a rest, try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This habit helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.  

Making sure your glasses or contact lenses prescription is up to date also helps keep your vision sharp and comfortable. If it’s been a year or longer since your last eye exam, schedule a visit with our eye doctors in Plymouth to ensure your eyes are healthy and your vision is accurate. 

3. Follow proper contact lens care 

Winter schedules can get busy, but keeping up with good contact lens habits helps protect your eyes from irritation and infection. Here are a few key reminders: 

• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses 
• Replace your contact lens case regularly 
• Only sleep in lenses approved for overnight wear 
• Follow your recommended replacement schedule 
• Schedule a contact lens exam if it’s been a while since your last visit 

4. Protect your eyes outdoors 

Cold winds, glare from snow, and bright sunlight can irritate your eyes and even cause snow blindness, a painful condition from overexposure to UV rays. Sunglasses provide protection, and eyeglass lenses with UV coatings or tints reduce glare while keeping vision clear. 

5. Control your indoor environment 

Use a humidifier at home to keep the air moist and avoid placing fans or vents directly on your face while sleeping. Small adjustments in your environment can significantly reduce dry eyes during winter. 

6. Consider professional dry eye treatments 

Persistent dryness may require advanced care. Our eye doctors offer treatments like BlephEx®, iLux®, and OptiLight IPL therapy to target the root cause of dry eyes. Combined with personalized guidance from a comprehensive eye exam, these therapies can help your eyes feel comfortable and refreshed all winter. 

See clearly and comfortably this winter 

Healthy eyes help you enjoy every part of the winter season—from time outdoors to cozy nights in. Regular eye exams and proper eye care can catch early signs of irritation or vision changes before they affect your comfort.  

Don’t let dry eyes ruin winter fun! Call Progressive Family Eye Care in Plymouth today or schedule online to keep your vision healthy all winter long.