Just like your outfits change with seasons, the way you care for your eyes should differ based on the temperature and conditions outside. In this article, we are going to provide you with seasonal eye care tips to help you keep your eyes healthy year-round.

Spring: Handle Allergies with Care

Spring is the season of allergies, so considering seasonal changes on the eyes is especially important.

Watch Out for Pollen

Spring pollen can exacerbate eye allergy symptoms like itching, redness, and watering. While you may not be able to stay away from pollen completely, wearing sunglasses outdoors can help reduce pollen exposure and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

Use Allergy Eye Drops

Many over-the-counter allergy eyedrops quickly brighten the whites of your eyes through their decongestant properties. However, these cannot be used regularly, as they can lead to rebound redness. Instead, you can visit us at Laurier Optical. We can prescribe allergy eyedrops that work by blocking histamine in the body or relieving the associated inflammation.

Summer: Protect Against UV Rays

Seasonal eye care in the summer is all about sun protection and hydration, which should be the primary focus for your entire body, not just your eyes.

Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses

Choose high-quality sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. You can even consider wraparound styles or polarized lenses for extra coverage. At Laurier Optical, we offer a broad selection of sunglasses that are not only stylish but also effectively protect your eyes from the harsh sun rays.

Stay Hydrated and Avoid Dryness

Increased heat and sun exposure can lead to dry eyes. Stay in the shade as much as possible, drink plenty of water throughout the day, and use artificial tears to moisturize your eyes if needed.

Fall: Guard Against Wind and Dry Air

Fall brings strong wind gusts outdoors, and inside, dry air thanks to furnaces and woodstoves.

Use Protective Eyewear Outdoors

You should protect your eyes from UV rays all year round. Wearing sunglasses or goggles in the fall can also protect your eyes from the wind and help prevent dry eye symptoms.

Watch for Seasonal Irritants

Watch out for fall allergens, such as leaf mould or dust. Use allergy eyedrops, keep your eyes clean with special eye washes, and avoid rubbing them, even if they’re itchy. 

Winter: Combat Dryness and Irritation

As temperatures drop outdoors, indoor heating can continue to wreak havoc, causing dry air and potentially exacerbating dry eye symptoms.

Use a Humidifier Indoors

To maintain moisture levels indoors, don’t forget to adjust the humidity level of your home’s HVAC system. If this isn’t an option, or you continue to experience dryness in your eyes, you can use a stand-alone humidifier.

Limit Exposure to Cold Wind

Don’t forget to wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from bright light and wind during outdoor winter activities. You can always apply lubricating eye drops to soothe irritation further.

Stay One Step Ahead of Every Season

Regular eye exams are key to early detection of issues and ensuring your vision stays sharp no matter the season. At Laurier Optical, our optometrists are here to help you stay ahead of seasonal eye concerns with personalized care and professional guidance. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward year-round eye health.