Spring is finally here! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and the days are getting longer. But for many of us, spring also brings an unwelcome guest: allergies. If you’re an allergy sufferer, you’ll know that itchy, watery, and red eyes can be a real pain—especially if you wear glasses or contact lenses. I don’t have personal experience but my younger daughter suffers from hay fever and it breaks my heart looking at her and how uncomfortable it can be.
At MyGlassesAndMe, we know how important it is to keep your eyes feeling fresh and comfortable no matter what the situation is, so we’ve put together some top tips to help you through allergy season.
1. Keep Your Glasses Clean
If you wear glasses, they can collect pollen, dust, and other allergens throughout the day. Make it a habit to clean your lenses and frames regularly using a gentle cleaning solution or microfiber cloth. Not only will this help reduce allergens near your eyes, but it’ll also keep your specs looking crystal clear!
2. Switch to Glasses if You Wear Contacts
Contact lenses can trap allergens against your eyes, making symptoms worse. If you’re struggling with itchy or irritated eyes, consider giving your contacts a break and switching to glasses during peak allergy season. Bonus: glasses can act as a barrier to block some pollen from reaching your eyes!
3. Use Allergy Eye Drops
Over-the-counter allergy eye drops can work wonders to soothe itchy, red eyes. Look for drops that are specifically designed to relieve allergy symptoms, but if you’re unsure which ones to choose, ask your optician for recommendations.
4. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
We know it’s tempting, but rubbing your eyes can make things worse by spreading allergens and causing further irritation. Instead, use a cold compress to soothe the itchiness. It’s a quick and refreshing way to calm your eyes down.
5. Stay Indoors During High Pollen Times
Pollen counts tend to peak in the early morning and late afternoon. If possible, try to stay indoors during these times, especially on windy days. If you do need to go out, wearing wraparound sunglasses can help shield your eyes from airborne allergens.
6. Wash Your Hands and Face Often
This one’s simple but effective! Washing your hands and face regularly can help remove pollen and allergens from your skin. It’s especially important to do this after being outdoors or before touching your eyes.
7. Upgrade Your Sunglasses
Spring is the perfect time to invest in a new pair of sunglasses! Look for ones with UV protection, and if you’re prone to allergies, consider wraparound styles for extra coverage. Not only will they protect your eyes from the sun, but they’ll also help keep pesky pollen at bay.
Don’t Let Allergies Ruin Your Spring
Allergy season doesn’t have to mean months of misery for your eyes. With these simple tips, you can enjoy all the beauty of spring without the itchiness and irritation. And remember, if your symptoms persist or become severe, it’s always a good idea to check in with your GP or optometrist.
Got any other tips for surviving allergy season? Share them with us in the comments or on Instagram @MyGlassesAndMe!