Winter Dry Eyes: Causes & Solutions

Winter Dry Eyes: Causes & Solutions

Winter has a way of romanticizing discomfort. We gladly sip hot beverages while our noses redden, our skin tightens, and—quietly but persistently—our eyes protest. At our University Optometric Center, winter dry eye is one of the most common seasonal complaints we see, and it’s far more than a minor annoyance. It’s a multifactorial condition influenced by environment, physiology, and modern habits.

Let’s unravel why winter is so unkind to the ocular surface—and what can be done about it.

Why Winter Triggers Dry Eye

At the heart of dry eye lies an unstable tear film. Winter disrupts this delicate balance in several clever (and inconvenient) ways:

1. Low Humidity, Indoors and Out
Cold air holds less moisture, and indoor heating systems further strip humidity from the environment. This accelerates tear evaporation, leaving the ocular surface exposed and irritated.

2. Heated Airflow Exposure
Car heaters, space heaters, and forced-air systems often blow directly toward the face. This constant airflow destabilizes the tear film, particularly in patients with underlying meibomian gland dysfunction.

3. Reduced Blinking During Screen Use
Winter nudges us indoors—and onto screens. Prolonged digital device use reduces blink rate, preventing tears from being evenly distributed across the eye.

4. Contact Lens Challenges
Contact lenses can exacerbate dryness in cold months, especially when paired with dry indoor air. The result? Grittiness, fluctuating vision, and end-of-day discomfort.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Winter dry eye doesn’t always announce itself dramatically. Symptoms may include burning, stinging, redness, excessive tearing (yes, paradoxically), blurred vision, or a persistent “something in my eye” sensation. If these signs worsen during colder months, winter is likely the culprit.

Science-Backed Solutions for Winter Relief

The good news: winter dry eye is manageable, and often preventable, with thoughtful care.

1. Preserve Moisture with Artificial Tears
Preservative-free lubricating drops replenish the tear film without irritating sensitive eyes. Our clinicians often recommend tailored formulations depending on tear quality and severity.

2. Support the Meibomian Glands
Warm compresses help restore healthy oil flow, reducing tear evaporation. Consistency is key—think of it as winter skincare for your eyelids.

3. Optimize Your Environment
Humidifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality. Aim for balanced humidity, especially in bedrooms and workspaces.

4. Reevaluate Contact Lens Wear
Winter may be the perfect time to explore daily disposables, specialty lenses, or updated materials designed for enhanced moisture retention.

5. Advanced In-Office Treatments
At our University Optometric Center, we offer diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies to address chronic or severe dry eye—because no two tear films are alike.

A Season for Proactive Eye Care

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of ocular discomfort. With early intervention, personalized treatment, and a bit of scientific finesse, your eyes can remain as comfortable as your favorite wool scarf is warm.

If your eyes are feeling less than festive this winter, our optometric team is here to help—combining academic insight with compassionate, patient-centered care. After all, even in the coldest months, your vision deserves clarity, comfort, and a touch of elegance.

Contact our office in Irvine or Newport Beach at (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment.