The Winter Eye Care Survival Guide: Preventing Dryness and Irritation
Even though Arizona winters are mild, the season can still take a toll on your eyes. Between cooler air, indoor heating, and more time spent in front of screens, many people experience dry, irritated, or tired eyes during the colder months. If your eyes feel gritty or uncomfortable this time of year, you’re not alone, and there are simple ways to keep them comfortable all season long.
Why Winter Causes Dry Eyes
Dry eye symptoms happen when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. While the desert climate is a challenge year-round, winter can make symptoms worse. Cooler outdoor air holds less moisture, and indoor heating systems dry out the air even more.
The result? Your eyes lose their natural moisture, leaving them red, irritated, and sensitive to light or wind.
Common Winter Eye Irritants
- Indoor Heating and Space Heaters
Warm, dry indoor air can quickly dehydrate your eyes. If you notice irritation after spending time near vents or heaters, the air may be too dry. - Wind and Outdoor Activities
Even gentle winter breezes in Arizona can cause tears to evaporate faster. Outdoor sports like hiking, biking, or golfing in cooler weather can make dryness worse. - Screen Time
During winter months, people tend to spend more time indoors—often on phones, tablets, or computers. Staring at screens makes us blink less, which means our eyes get less moisture.
How to Protect Your Eyes This Winter
- Use a Humidifier
Add moisture back into your home environment. A small humidifier in your bedroom or office can make a big difference in reducing irritation. - Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to forget to drink water when it’s cooler out, but hydration is essential for tear production and eye comfort. - Blink More Often During Screen Time
When working or scrolling, try the “20-20-20” rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s a quick reset for your eyes. - Shield Your Eyes Outdoors
Sunglasses aren’t just for summer! They block wind and UV rays, both of which can aggravate dryness. Wraparound sunglasses are especially effective for outdoor winter activities. - Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Artificial tears can relieve irritation and keep your eyes comfortable. Choose preservative-free drops if you use them frequently. - Take Breaks from Contact Lenses
Contacts can worsen dryness during the winter. Give your eyes a rest by wearing glasses a few days a week—or talk to your doctor about newer contact lens options designed for dry eyes.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If your eyes stay red, watery, or irritated even with these tips, it may be more than seasonal dryness. Chronic dry eye is a treatable condition, and the right care can dramatically improve your comfort and vision quality.
At Horizon Eye Specialists, our doctors offer advanced diagnostic testing and treatments to relieve dry eye—so you can enjoy the winter season without discomfort.
Don’t let winter dryness blur your comfort or your vision. Schedule an appointment with Horizon Eye Specialists today to find lasting relief from dry eye.