It’s the start of a brand new year! That means it’s time to start thinking about resolutions you want to keep in 2018. Perhaps it’s to join the gym? Start a new hobby? Move jobs? These are certainly achievable, but why not add an extra resolution to your list – in the form of your eyes!
Here’s a few of our own suggestions to get you started, and unlike that January post-Christmas diet, these are easy to stick to!
1. I will give contact lenses a try
We know it can be a daunting prospect for some, but contact lenses can be an extremely positive lifestyle change for people who have worn glasses – you won’t even notice them in your eyes. They are more convenient and allow you to have more freedom when it comes to physical activities and sports over glasses.
Luckily, Eyesite offer a FREE, no obligation Contact Lens Experience appointment, allowing you to find out more about them and find the best type of lens for you. We’ll even advise and show you how to apply and remove them.
2. I will drink more water
Drinking more fluids is good for your whole body, not just your eyes. Cold weather and hot radiators can lead to dehydration and eye fatigue. Many people underestimate the extent this has on our eyes. Redness, dry eyes and a feeling of grittiness in the eye are all common conditions at this time of year.
Regular tea and coffee breaks may add to your fluid intake, but caffeinated drinks aren’t great when you drink them day in, day out. Try swapping one or more for a cup of hot water with lemon or green tea.
3. I will quit smoking
The reasons to quit smoking are as long as your arm. For us at Eyesite, it’s Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) that concerns us.
Most people know that smoking causes lung cancer, but not many know that smoking also causes blindness. Current smokers are up to four times more likely to have AMD than people who have never smoked.
4. I will wear sunglasses more often
Keep a pair of sunglasses in your bag or car at all times to get into the habit. Summer isn’t the only time to protect your eyes. Even when it’s overcast, UV rays can reach your eyes. So if it’s bright, take care. Snow reflects up to 85% of the sun’s rays into our eyes, so even in winter, you should protect your eyes.
5. I will book an eye test
Can’t remember the last time you had an eye test? You’re probably due for one. Not only are eye tests necessary to ensure you’re seeing things as clearly as you could, they are vital to make sure there are no underlying eye problems or infections. Book a regular eye test and look after your vision.
6. I will be mindful of my makeup
Eye makeup is one of the worst offenders for irritating our eyes and the delicate skin around them. Using hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested products can help, as well as cream eye shadows instead of powders. Using a specialised wipe to remove eye make-up is also key to preventing irritation.
7. I will look after my eye wear
Use your micro-cloths and solutions! This year, make an effort to not rub your glasses on your shirt sleeves. All it does is smear your lenses and increases the chances of them getting scratched. Put your glasses on with both hands so the arms don’t start to go loose.
Wearing contacts? Don’t get lazy with them. Wash them properly and regularly and don’t wear them longer than your prescription requires.
8. #loveyoureyes
Do more to #loveyoureyes this year. Whether its embracing the resolutions above, or just taking the time to rest your eyes, you’ll feel better for it. Work at a computer all day? Remember to look away from your screen at regular intervals and look at things at different distances to help relax your eyes. Be mindful of blinking — we blink less when we’re working at a screen, which can lead to dry eyes, so think and blink. Remember the 20/20-20/20 Rule: Look up from your work every 20 minutes to an object 20 feet or more away, for 20 seconds and take 20 blinks.
