Surviving Dry Climates: Essential Tips for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear
Living in a dry climate has its perks—sunshine, clear skies, and a warm breeze. But if you wear contact lenses, you might find that the dryness of a desert paradise can sometimes mess with your comfort.
Dry air can cause your eyes to feel gritty, itchy, or just plain uncomfortable. But don’t worry! With the right tips and tricks, you can keep your eyes feeling great even in the driest of climates. In this article, we will share helpful tips for wearing contact lenses in dry climates.
Stay Hydrated
Let’s start with the basics: drink plenty of water. You might wonder what drinking H2O has to do with contact lenses, but the answer is a lot. Keeping your body hydrated is the first step to keeping your eyes hydrated.
When you’re well-hydrated, your eyes produce more tears, which helps keep your contacts comfortable. Strive to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
If you’re active or it’s particularly hot, you might need even more liquid fuel. Remember, staying hydrated is not just about your eyes—it’s about your overall health too.
Use Rewetting Drops
Rewetting drops are your best friend in a dry climate. These drops are specifically designed to be safe for use with contact lenses and can provide instant relief from dryness.
Keep a bottle with you at all times and use them as needed throughout the day. Just make sure the drops you choose are labeled as safe for contact lenses. Avoid regular eye drops because they can sometimes cause problems with your lenses.
Choose the Right Contact Lenses
Not all contact lenses are created equal, especially when it comes to dealing with dry conditions.
Silicone hydrogel lenses are often the best choice for dry climates because they allow more oxygen to pass through to your cornea. This keeps your eyes healthier and more comfortable. We encourage you to check out our blog on silicone hydrogel.
Daily disposable lenses are another great option. Since you’re starting with a fresh pair every day, there’s less buildup of proteins and debris that can contribute to dryness.
Check out the selection of contact lenses at Eiyan Lens to find the perfect pair for you.
Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
The 20-20-20 rule is a simple trick to help reduce eye strain and dryness, especially if you spend a lot of time staring at screens like computers, phones, or tablets.
Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This gives your eyes a chance to relax and rehydrate, which is crucial in dry environments.
It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in how your eyes feel by the end of the day.
Avoid Direct Airflow
Fans, air conditioners, and heaters can make dry air even worse. Try to avoid direct airflow hitting your face, especially when you’re wearing contacts.
If you’re working at a desk, adjust your fan or air conditioner so it’s not blowing directly on you. In the car, aim the vents away from your face.
This simple adjustment can help prevent your eyes from drying out.
Wear Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just for style—they’re essential for protecting your eyes in dry climates. The sun’s UV rays can be harsh on your eyes, and dry, windy conditions can make it even worse.
Wearing sunglasses helps protect your eyes from the elements and can reduce the feeling of dryness.
Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, and consider wraparound styles for even more coverage.
Consider a Humidifier
If you’re spending a lot of time indoors, especially in air-conditioned or heated environments, a humidifier can be a game-changer. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help keep your eyes from drying out.
Place one in your bedroom or workspace to create a more eye-friendly environment. The added humidity is not just good for your eyes but your skin and hair will thank you too!
Limit Lens Wear Time
In dry climates, it’s a good idea to give your eyes regular breaks from contact lenses.
Try to limit your lens wear time to about 8-10 hours a day.
When you’re home for the evening, switch to glasses to give your eyes a chance to breathe.
If you notice that your eyes are feeling dry or irritated, take your contacts out and give them a rest. Your comfort should always come first.
Clean Your Lenses Properly
Proper lens care is crucial, especially in dry environments. Always clean your lenses with the recommended solution—never water. Water can introduce bacteria to your lenses and cause serious infections.
Make sure to replace your lens case every three months and always use a fresh solution. Clean lenses are comfortable lenses, so don’t skip this step!
Watch Your Diet
Believe it or not, what you eat can affect how your eyes feel. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can help improve tear quality and reduce dry eye symptoms, according to studies.
Vitamin A is also important for eye health, so make sure to include carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens in your diet.
A healthy diet supports overall eye health and can make a difference in how your eyes handle dry conditions.
Consult Your Eye Doctor
If you’re really struggling with dry eyes, it might be time to talk to your eye doctor. They can recommend specific treatments or even prescribe eye drops that are stronger than the over-the-counter options.
Your eye doctor can also check to make sure that your contact lenses are the best fit for your eyes and your environment.
Regular check-ups are key to keeping your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.
Final Thoughts on Contacts in Dry Climates
Wearing contact lenses in a dry climate doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. By staying hydrated, choosing the right lenses, and following these simple tips, you can keep your eyes feeling great no matter how dry the air gets.
Remember, your comfort and eye health are important, so take the time to care for your eyes properly.
At Eiyan Lens, we’re here to help you find the perfect lenses for your lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with dry conditions or just looking for the best contact lenses available, we’ve got you covered.
Check out our blog for more eye care tips, and browse our collection to find the lenses that are right for you. Your eyes deserve the best, so why not give them the comfort they need to thrive in any climate?
