Your eyes deserve plenty of TLC. Eye hygiene is your key to maintaining fantastic eyesight and preventing infections. It is often an overlooked aspect of health, but simple practices can go a long way in making sure your eyes stay in top-notch condition. Our resident optometrist at Vienna Eyecare Center shares them below.
Regular Hand Washing
The hands often come into contact with different surfaces, carrying germs that can easily be transferred to your eyes when you touch or rub them. Wash your hands regularly, especially before applying eye drops or makeup. Use warm water and a good amount of soap and make sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds. Don’t forget to dry your hands thoroughly, as damp hands can easily spread bacteria.
Avoid Eye Rubbing
This may seem natural, especially when your eyes feel itchy or tired. However, eye rubbing can introduce bacteria and other contaminants from your hands, potentially leading to infections. Furthermore, rubbing your eyes can cause physical damage, such as corneal abrasion. Instead, if you feel discomfort, try blinking rapidly or rinsing your eyes with clean water. If the discomfort persists, it’s best to consult an optometrist instead of resorting to rubbing.
Take Off Contacts Before Bed
Sleeping in your contact lenses increases the risk of developing an eye infection. The lenses can trap irritants and bacteria against the eye surface, creating an environment conducive to infection. Contact lenses also limit the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes, which can cause dryness and discomfort. Remember to clean your contact lenses thoroughly before storing them. Always replace them as recommended by your eye doctor.
Use Clean Eye Cosmetics
Always use clean and non-expired cosmetics on your eyes. Eyeliners, eyeshadows, and mascaras can harbor bacteria over time, which can cause eye infections. It is ideal to replace your eye cosmetics every three months. Never share your eye cosmetics with others, as it can lead to the spread of infections. Also, always remove your makeup at the end of the day to give your eyes a break and prevent potential irritation or infections.
Get Regular Eye Check-Ups
Regular eye check-ups are not only essential for maintaining optimal vision, but they can also help detect a variety of eye diseases and conditions early on. These include glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts. Eye examinations can also help detect systemic diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. During a check-up, an optometrist will assess your visual acuity and conduct tests to evaluate your eye health. They can also provide personalized advice on eye care based on your specific needs and lifestyle.
Maintaining good eye health and hygiene isn’t as intimidating as it might seem. For quality eye care in Fairfax and Vienna, VA, trust the professionals at Vienna Eyecare Center. Contact us at (703) 938-7633 today, or reach us online to schedule a consultation. Your eyes deserve nothing but the best!
