Fashion
How To Treat Red Eyes In The Winter
Toasty, dry air in your apartment and office can feel extra cozy during the winter when it's freezing outside, but also has the potential to wreak havoc on your eyes. If you're wondering how to treat red eyes in winter, I've rounded up a few different strategies that should tackle the problem quickly. You don't have to keep suffering!
I had the privilege of spending a good chunk of my life in Los Angeles where winter just isn't really a thing. When I moved to Manhattan last year, my eyes had a rude, red awakening to how harsh winter could be. I didn't really know what to do, so I made an appointment with my doctor who ended up providing incredibly helpful treatment tips for dry, red eyes.
Before I talk about the treatment strategies, I do want to point out that you might want to consider an appointment with your ophthalmologist if the problem is especially painful or persistent. Dr. James Cech, MD, shared how "if your eyes look red, red-rimmed, or swollen after you’ve been out in the cold" or if you're experiencing "eye pain or blurry vision," then a doctor's visit is especially important. Once you're totally sure you're just dealing with red, dry eyes from the shift in weather and indoor heating, test out the tips below.
1. Omega 3 Capsules
Omega-3 Capsules , $8, iHerb
Studies conducted at Harvard found "Those who consumed 840 mg of omega-3 fats from fish had a 17 percent lower risk of suffering from dry eyes when compared to women who consumed little or no seafood."
2. Moisturizing Eye Drops
Refresh Optive Advanced Eye Drops, $11, Amazon
If you're struggling with red eyes, Dr. Richard Adler, MD, told AllAboutVision to try and purchase eye drops with a high level of viscosity because they will "provide longer-lasting lubrication."
3. Humidifier
Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier, $50, Amazon
Since hot, dry air can cause red eyes, consider purchasing a humidifier to add moisture back into the air while still staying warm.
4. Warm Compresses
If your dry, red eyes are also super itchy, Dr. Adler also advised making warm compresses with a clean dish towel and hot water. Dip the towel in hot water, roll it up over your eyes, leave for ten minutes twice a day to help soothe dry eyes.
5. UV Sunglasses
Le Specs Polarized Sunglasses, $59, Nordstrom
BestHealthMag recommends investing in a quality pair of UV-protection sunglasses if you're out in windy, cold weather frequently to help shield your eyes from the elements and other potential irritants.
6. Eye Makeup Remover
Kirkland Signature Organic Coconut Oil, $29, Amazon
Ingredients in certain eye shadows and eye liners can cause dry eyes if left on too long, so always make sure you have eye makeup remover on hand before you fall asleep. My personal favorite DIY eye makeup remover is coconut oil!
Want more beauty tips? Check out the video below, and be sure to subscribe to Bustle’s YouTube page for more hacks and tricks!
Images: Rocksana Rocksana/Unsplash; Fotolia; Courtesy of Brands
