Common triggers

Winter weather: Shelter your eyes from windy days by wearing sunglasses and prepare for cold dry spells by using eye drops for added protection.¹⁷

Screen time: Screen time reduces our blink rate so set a timer to take regular breaks and make sure your computer is at eye level, so you aren’t straining.^18,19

Low humidity: Air conditioning, dry weather and sitting next to air vents can lead to low humidity. Using a humidifier can help.²⁰

Beauty and skincare: Some people can be sensitive to the ingredients in products such as make-up and moisturisers. Try switching to hypoallergenic alternatives.²¹

Contact lenses: Try switching to glasses to give your eyes a break for a few hours a day or once a week and practice good hygiene.

Medication: Certain medications can reduce mucus production – an element of our tears – such as antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Discuss this with your doctor before making changes.

Diet: A poor diet, drinking too much alcohol and not enough water can be dehydrating and lead to dry eyes.²²

Smoking: Smoke is an irritant, so if you experience dry eyes, it’s another great excuse to ditch the habit.²³

Travelling: Aeroplane cabins can be dehydrating with very dry air. Using eye drops can help avoid discomfort.²⁴

Stress: Studies have shown that stress may play a key role in the development of dry eyes.²⁵