01/23/2026
❄️ 👀 Snow. Icy roads. Blasting furnaces. All are signs of winter, and all can have impacts on your eyes. 👀❄️
Here are some of the ways that winter can affect your eye health, and tips for prevention from Lookafteryoureyes.org:
Winter sun
• Sunglasses aren’t just for summer. Snow and ice are reflective, so the sun’s rays can reach your eyes from below as well as above. The low sun in winter can be dazzling, so wear sunglasses on sunny winter days, particularly when driving.
• If you wear glasses, ask about having anti-reflection coating on the lenses to reduce the effects of sun glare while driving.
Dry eyes
Central heating can make dry eyes feel worse. There are some simple steps you can take to feel more comfortable:
• Lower the temperature in rooms when possible.
• Open windows, even for a few minutes.
• Use a humidifier.
• You can get moisturizing eye drops over the counter from your optometrist or pharmacist.
Winter lighting
Many people will be working from home this winter, and lighting is very important. You will see better in bright light than in dim light, so you might find that you need to wear your glasses more when the lighting is poor. If you have problems seeing in low light, we recommend:
• Sitting close to a window during the day if you need to see something clearly, like the text in a book or magazine.
• Having good lighting close to you at home when you need it, including a light source like a desk light.
• Spending time outside. There is evidence that encouraging children to spend time outdoors could reduce the onset of myopia, so do try and make sure they have some time outside each day.
