FAQs About Wearing Contact Lenses in the Winter

With every passing year, more and more people are transitioning from glasses to contact lenses because they’re convenient and allow you to live an active lifestyle. Contact lenses can be worn year-round, but we get a lot of questions about wearing them in the winter, so we decided to answer some of the most common questions we get.

Do contact lenses dry out your eyes in the winter?
Many contact lens wearers find that they suffer from dry eyes, and the cold wind and dry indoor air that accompanies winter only make it worse in most cases. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take that will keep your eyes moist and your contact lenses comfortable even in the winter.

  • Drink water to ensure you and your eyes stay hydrated
  • Use artificial tears or eye drops for an added boost of moisture
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home
  • Take a break from your lenses when possible, and wear your glasses.

Will my contact lenses freeze?
As much as urban legend enthusiasts would love for this to be true, it is nothing more than a widespread myth. Contact lenses will not freeze even in temperatures as low as -60°C, so you have nothing to worry about anywhere that is habitable. Tests have been carried out in the past to confirm that contact lenses wouldn’t freeze in the winter, and the materials that they are made from today have only become even more superior. The cold can make your lenses dry out faster because the wind and temperatures cause your eyes to dry out, but that can be combated with the abovementioned remedies.

Should I still wear sunglasses during the winter, even if I have contact lenses?
Contact lenses are great for correcting your vision, but they generally aren’t designed to protect your eyes from UV rays, so you will still need to wear sunglasses even in the winter. Many people neglect to wear sunglasses during the winter because they can’t feel the sun’s heat, but its rays are still just as harmful. In fact, because the snow reflects UV rays, even on slightly overcast days, the sun can still potentially cause damage.

Can Hakim Optical help me find the right contact lenses and eye care products for the winter?
The expert staff at Hakim Optical has the experience and knowledge to answer all of your eye care questions and help you find the right contact lenses to suit your lifestyle. Drop by one of our many locations and let us help you enjoy the freedom of contact lenses.

Find all of your contact lens essentials at Hakim Optical!

Hakim Optical has provided Canadians with quality corrective lenses at a value that can’t be beaten for over 55 years. Our knowledgeable staff and optometrists are here to help you find an eyewear solution tailored specifically to you.

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