Winter in Canada is beautiful, but the cold, dry air can be tough on your eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. You might notice your eyes feeling drier or more tired than usual.
You don’t have to switch to glasses just because the temperature drops. With a few adjustments, you can keep your eyes feeling great all season long. Here are some simple tips for comfortable contact lens wear during the winter months.
Battle the Winter Dryness
The biggest challenge for contact lens wearers in winter is dryness. The combination of chilly outdoor air and warm indoor heating removes moisture from the environment, and from your eyes.
Use Rewetting Drops
Keep a bottle of lubricating eye drops, made specifically for contact lenses, with you. A few drops can provide immediate relief when your eyes feel dry. Make sure the label says they are safe to use with contacts.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps your whole body, including your eyes. When you are properly hydrated, your eyes can produce better quality tears, which keeps your lenses comfortable.
Run a Humidifier
Using a humidifier in your home or office adds moisture back into the air. This small change can make a big difference in how your eyes and your contact lenses feel.
Face the Cold and Wind
A windy winter day can make your eyes water and feel irritated. The cold itself also raises some questions.
Will My Lenses Freeze?
This is a common concern, but you can relax. Your contact lenses will not freeze in your eyes. Your body temperature and the natural warmth of your tears keep them at a safe temperature.
Wear Protection Outdoors
A pair of sunglasses or other protective eyewear is a great idea. They shield your eyes from harsh winds, which helps prevent the moisture on your lenses from evaporating too quickly. They also protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays, which can be strong in the winter, especially when reflecting off the snow.
Consider Your Lens Type
Your choice of contact lens can also affect your winter comfort.
Daily Disposables
Many people find daily disposable lenses to be a great choice for winter. You get to start each day with a fresh, clean, and moist lens. This can reduce the feeling of dryness that sometimes comes from deposit buildup on monthly or bi-weekly lenses.
Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
If you wear reusable lenses, consider ones made from a silicone hydrogel material. These modern lenses allow more oxygen to pass through to your eye, which helps them stay healthier and feel more comfortable, even in dry conditions.
Quick Tips for Happy Winter Eyes
- Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before handling your lenses.
- Carry a bottle of contact lens-friendly rewetting drops.
- Wear sunglasses outside to block wind and UV rays.
- Drink lots of water.
- Ask your eye care professional if daily disposable lenses are a good option for you.
Wearing contact lenses during a Canadian winter can be perfectly comfortable. A little extra care is all it takes to keep your eyes feeling good until the spring thaw.
Need to stock up on rewetting drops or want to try daily disposables? We have what you need to keep your eyes happy this season.
