How to Look After Your Eyes No Matter the Season

As the seasons change, we make a conscious effort to ensure our bodies are well looked after. In the winter, we protect ourselves from colds and flu; in the summer, it’s sunburn, and in the spring, it’s hay fever.  But how much time do you spend thinking about your eye care as the seasons change? Just like our bodies, our eyes have changing needs, so here is some information, and a few tips, for how to look after our eyes no matter what season it is…

Winter

The harsh winter weather, along with central heating at home, can cause our skin and eyes to become dry. And let’s not forget the winter sun – UV rays can still affect your eyes, especially in the snow. So, here are our top tips on ensuring your eyes are protected in the colder months:

• Drink plenty of fluids and use a humidifier to increase moisture in the air
• Use eye drops if you need to (use contact-friendly ones if you wear lenses)
• Wear sunglasses when out in the sun… yes, even in winter!
• Take extra precautions when changing your contact lenses – especially during the dreaded cold or flu season. Always wash your hands to prevent germs from spreading, and if your eyes become affected by the virus, it could be a good idea to give your eyes a break from contacts and reach for the specs.

Spring

With the start of spring comes dreaded hay fever – although we are a big fan of daffodils and blossoms appearing on the trees, it’s not all bad!

We could go on for hours about eye health in spring with hay fever, but the main message is: –

• Cover up with sunglasses, especially wrap-around styles
• Try to avoid going out when the pollen level is high, check the pollen levels on the weather reports or internet and avoid the peak times of day (mid-morning and early evening)
• Avoid the pollen itself by not being in direct contact with it.
• Use hay fever eye drops and eye sprays or take antihistamines if needed
• Try daily disposable contact lenses – Speak to your optician for further details, but a fresh pair of contacts each day will prevent pollen build-up
• And of course – give your eyes a break and wear your glasses

Summer

Summertime – the season that most of us wait patiently for all year! Festivals, holidays and the glorious sunshine (we hope) – there are so many reasons to be outside. But just like the other seasons, there are certain things to consider regarding our eye health needs that come with the arrival of the season of sun.

• Thanks to pesky grass pollen, you can still suffer from hay fever.
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry eyes, especially when it is warm outside & the air con is on at work. Use eye drops if needed.
• Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses that block 100% UVA and UVB rays.

Superdrug’s Top Tip:

Contact Lenses and swimming don’t mix! So, be sure to wear your prescription goggles when taking a dip in either the pool or the ocean. And on the subject of catching rays, be careful with sunscreen. Avoid getting it in your eyes, especially when wearing contacts, but make sure to cover up to avoid sunburn. Don’t forget your eyelids!

Autumn

When autumn arrives, we love nothing more than wrapping up and getting outside to enjoy the ever-changing colours of nature or curling up on the sofa with a good book and a blanket.

You’re going to need your eyes to be in good health to enjoy everything this season has to offer, so here is what you should consider:

• Dry eyes strike again! The changes in the weather can again cause this issue with your eyes.
• As the nights start to draw in, weed pollen and mould spores can affect some of us, causing hay fever symptoms.
• If you’re considering giving contact lenses a try, autumn is a great time of year, especially for outdoor fanatics. No matter what activity you are doing, or whatever the weather, you won’t be restricted by glasses. No more fogging up or being bothered by the rain. Plus, you can wear your favourite sunglasses as well to protect you from UV rays.

So, no matter what the season, make sure to look after your eyes!