Protecting Your Eyes This Holiday Season

The holiday season is one filled with joy, festivities, and quality time spent with loved ones. While holiday fun should come first, it’s important not to overlook your visual health and safety as you celebrate. Here are our tips for enjoying the holidays while keeping your eyes healthy and happy!

Combat seasonal allergies

Seasonal allergies aren’t just for spring! In fact, many people experience allergy symptoms as the weather cools down in the fall and winter. Winter allergies often result from indoor factors such as dust, dander, and mold, which can irritate your eyes. Improving the air quality of your home may help to reduce your symptoms, so consider using an air purifier, filter, or dehumidifier.

To minimize allergic reactions, you may want to take over-the-counter antihistamines, which reduce the sneezing, itching, and mucus that come with allergies. Avoid ‘gets-the-red-out’ drops which only constrict blood vessels and can ultimately raise blood pressure. Also avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can increase eye irritation and worsen symptoms. Instead, use a clean, damp cloth to soothe itching or discomfort, and remember to wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, contact lenses, or face.

Wear sunglasses in the cold

While you may don sunglasses every day during the summer, it’s just as important to wear them in the fall and winter! This is especially true in snowy weather because snow reflects the sun’s harmful UV rays and can damage your vision.

Choose sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection whenever you’re outside, even on cloudy days. Polarized lenses also help to reduce glare from the snow and improve visibility. Encourage children to wear UV-protective sunglasses, as their eyes are more sensitive to sun damage.

Practice moderation with screen time

The holiday season often comes with increased screen time as you shop online, attend virtual gatherings, and binge-watch your favorite seasonal movies. Take regular breaks during extended screen sessions by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and focus on an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

You can also ensure that your workspace is optimized for eye comfort by keeping the screen at eye level and using proper lighting. Blue-light-blocking filters or glasses can help your circadian rhythm stay regular.

Handle decorations safely

Although festive decorations add some flair, exercise caution. Ensure that all holiday lights are in good condition with no frayed wires, broken bulbs, or signs of corrosion. While uncommon, damaged lights can explode and lead to painful injuries.

It may be helpful to wear protective eyewear, such as safety glasses, as you install or remove decorations—especially if you use tools like a staple gun to hang icicle lights or garlands. Finally, supervise children as they enjoy crafts that involve sharp or hot objects, like cutting out paper snowflakes or cooking.

There’s no such thing as being too safe!

By following these tips, you can enjoy everything that the fall and winter holidays have to offer while prioritizing your visual health. 

We wish you an eye-safe start to the holiday season!