How to protect your eyesight from pollution?

Yes, I’m not going to teach you anything new by saying that air pollution has an impact on our health. However, did you know that it can also affect our eyes? And I’m not just talking about car pollution in traffic jams, but also about pollution inside our homes.

Don’t panic, it’s usually nothing serious, but it can be very annoying on a daily basis. There are just a few simple habits to adopt more regularly to help prevent these issues (no problem, only solutions!).

How does pollution affect our eyes the most?

We all know that it is mainly in big cities that we experience pollution peaks at certain times of the year.

During winter, heating systems are running and dust tends to stay trapped indoors, which can cause irritations or conjunctivitis. With the cold weather, eyes can also become more prone to dryness. At that point, the eye produces more tears to create a more protective oily barrier.

In summer, pollen comes back and the wind is less effective at removing CO₂ emissions (you know, that famous period when traffic jams break records every year).

Be careful with the household products you buy too, as they can also irritate your eyes right inside your own home.

What habits should you adopt to protect yourself from pollution?

All of this is usually not too serious, but it can really become uncomfortable on a daily basis. So if we can avoid it, even better! Here are a few simple tips to protect your eyes from pollution.

Clean your eyes regularly

Cleaning your eyes with saline solution helps remove small impurities and particles. Of course, make sure to wash your hands beforehand and avoid rubbing your eyes too often. It can also be helpful during periods of dry eyes or allergies (always consult a specialist before self-medicating).

Remove your makeup before going to bed

We say it often, but makeup should definitely be removed before sleeping. Not only will you wake up looking like a panda, but you’ll also leave impurities around your eyes, which can lead to conjunctivitis or styes (and then no makeup for a few days!).

Blink enough

It may seem obvious, but many people forget to blink enough, especially when using screens. Be careful, as this can also cause dry eyes. Blinking helps hydrate the eye and creates a protective oily layer that helps maintain the tear film.

Ventilate your home regularly

A little fresh air never hurts! Ventilating your home helps renew indoor air, especially if you smoke indoors. It is also beneficial against certain chemical substances often found in insecticides, household cleaners, and even solvents.

Be careful, winter is often the season when we forget to open our windows because of the cold. However, it is one of the most important times to reduce the spread of germs and dust accumulation.

Wear your glasses

Whether it’s winter or summer, wearing your glasses is always a good idea, especially if you have sensitive eyes. They create an effective barrier against particles and impurities floating in the air.

As you can see, it’s very simple to apply! These are just small habits to add to your daily routine if you’re not already doing them.