Cold weather brings a new set of challenges for contact lens wearers. Cold air and fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures can affect both your eyes and lenses. Knowing how to care for your contacts in cold weather ensures comfort and eye health. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips to protect your vision throughout the season.
Tips for Wearing Contacts in Cold Weather
1. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated:
Cold air has low humidity, which can dry out your eyes. Use artificial tears or rewetting drops to maintain moisture levels.
2. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes:
Transitioning quickly between cold outdoors and warm indoors can cause temporary vision blurriness. Keep your lenses hydrated to reduce discomfort.
3. Protect Your Eyes from Wind:
Strong winds can irritate your eyes, leading to dryness. Wear wraparound sunglasses or goggles to shield your eyes.
4. Beware of Fogging Lenses with Masks and Scarves:
When bundling up, exhaled air from scarves and masks can cause lenses to fog. Adjust face coverings to prevent airflow toward your eyes.
5. Switch to Daily Lenses if Possible:
Daily disposable lenses reduce the risk of buildup from environmental elements like dust and cold air.
6. Carry a Lens Care Kit:
Always have a lens case, cleaning solution, and rewetting drops on hand for emergencies.
7. Avoid Wearing Lenses in Extremely Cold Winds:
In extreme conditions, it’s better to switch to glasses to prevent irritation or lens freezing issues.
Effects of Cold Weather on Eyes and Contacts
|
Condition |
Effect on Eyes |
Impact on Contact Lenses |
|
Dry air |
Causes dry and irritated eyes |
Lenses may feel uncomfortable or sticky |
|
Wind exposure |
Increases tear evaporation |
Lenses can dry out faster |
|
Transition from cold to warm environments |
May cause blurred vision temporarily |
Lenses may shift slightly |
|
Fogging (from scarves/masks) |
Impairs vision |
Can make lenses cloudy |
