Top Tips for Managing Ocular Rosacea and Dry Eye this Winter
As we start moving out of the hot weather and the temperature drops, many people will notice that their dry eye, ocular rosacea and facial rosacea suddenly worsen. During winter, the air becomes dryer, the winds pick up and we start spending more time indoors - which creates the perfect dry eye and skin storm.
Winter air holds less moisture, the humidity drops, and heaters are constantly running. This creates an environment that causes your tears to evaporate faster. At the same time, when we’re reading or using screens, our blink rate halves.
Blinking isn’t just automatic, it plays a key role in eye health. Blinking stimulates oil release from the meibomian glands, and these oils are essential for stabilising the tear film and preventing evaporation. When blinking slows down, oil flow reduces, and dry eye symptoms worsen.
If your symptoms tend to flare every year, it’s worth getting ahead of it now rather than waiting until your eyes are already struggling, these are my top 5 tips of preparing your skin and eyes for winter.
Before changing any of your habits, contact an Optometrist to ensure they are right for you and your overall health.
Managing your environment
Using a humidifier helps to add moisture back into your environment and offset the drying winter air. Make sure any heaters or fans are directed away from your face.
Protect your eyes
Protect your eyes and skin by wearing good, UV protection sunglasses and a scarf to protect your eyes from the wind.
Be mindful of screen time
Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
Consciously blink more often
Lower screen height slightly so your eyes aren’t opened as wide
Consider IPL before winter hits
If you struggle with ongoing dry eye, especially linked to meibomian gland dysfunction or rosacea, this is where more advanced treatment can make a big difference. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) helps reduce inflammation around the eyelids and improves the function of the oil glands. This leads to a more stable tear film and less evaporation.
Upgrade your home care routine
Use a warm compress daily followed by gentle massage
Keep lids clean with a gentle lid cleanser
Switch to preservative-free lubricating drops and use them regularly, not just when your eyes feel dry
Consider a thicker gel drop at night before bed if mornings are your worst time
Drink plenty of water
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps to keep your skin and eyes hydrated.
The biggest mistake people make is to treat the eyes AFTER they start to flare, If your eyes tend to worsen every winter, start your routine early, before the cold really sets in.