There’s something about summer that makes everyone a little more carefree — we ditch the heavy jackets, stay out longer, and blink a little slower in the warm afternoon light. But just because summer feels relaxed doesn’t mean your eyes get a break. They’re often the first to react when the environment shifts.
From an unexpected gust of wind filled with pollen to the harsh reflection of UV light off the water, your eyes go through a gauntlet of seasonal challenges. And while red, itchy, or watery eyes might feel like an annoying summer inevitability, they don’t have to be.
At , we provide scleral lens fittings and dry eye evaluations for patients who struggle with seasonal symptoms — because summer shouldn’t come with a side of discomfort.
How Summer Conditions Affect Your Eyes
Even if you don’t notice the effects right away, summer weather can subtly impact your ocular health. Heat, humidity, and environmental shifts can all influence how your eyes feel and function. Here’s how:
- Dry heat can accelerate tear evaporation, leading to burning or stinging sensations.
- High humidity may trap allergens and pollution close to the eyes, increasing irritation.
- Wind carries dust mites, pollen, and other particles that can scratch or inflame the eye surface.
- Sun exposure can cause temporary discomfort (like photokeratitis) and long-term damage.
- Air conditioning pulls moisture from the air, contributing to dry eye symptoms, especially indoors.
By staying aware of how your environment affects your eyes, you can take proactive steps to avoid discomfort and maintain your visual comfort throughout the season.
Top 4 Threats to Summer Eye Comfort (+ Prevention Tips)
When your eyes feel irritated, your entire day can go off the rails. The culprits may be different depending on your environment, but the following factors are among the most common causes of seasonal eye discomfort:
1. UV Exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation doesn't just affect your skin — it can damage your eyes over time. Cumulative exposure is associated with a greater risk of:
- Cataracts
- Pterygium (fleshy growth on the eye)
- Photokeratitis (sunburned cornea)
- Macular degeneration
To protect your eyes, wear sunglasses labeled with 100% UVA/UVB protection and add a wide-brimmed hat for extra coverage during peak sun hours.
2. Seasonal Allergens
Pollen, mold, dust, and pet dander can spike during summer and wreak havoc on your eyes. Allergic conjunctivitis leads to symptoms like:
- Redness
- Excessive tearing
- Itchiness
- Swelling around the eyes
To prevent seasonal eye allergies, keep windows closed on high-pollen days, use artificial tears to flush out irritants, and consider daily disposable contacts or discuss scleral lenses with us, which offer a protective barrier against allergens.
3. Chlorine and Pool Chemicals
While chlorine keeps pools clean, it can also strip away the natural tear film that protects your eyes. If you swim often:
- Use swim goggles — always.
- Rinse your eyes with preservative-free saline after swimming.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses in the water unless they're specifically approved for it.
4. Dehydration and Dry Air
Hot weather and air conditioning both contribute to dry eye symptoms. Dehydrated eyes can feel gritty, blurry, or tired by the end of the day. Rehydrate with these tips:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Use a humidifier indoors to combat dry air.
- Ask our eye doctors about lubricating eye drops or specialized treatments for dry eyes.
Protect Your Vision This Summer in , TX
Eye irritation doesn’t have to be the price you pay for a fun summer. Whether you're dealing with dryness, allergic reactions, or UVA and UVB rays, our eye care team at is here to help. We offer comprehensive eye exams, scleral lens fittings, and targeted dry eye care to help patients see clearly and comfortably, no matter the season.
If you’re tired of squinting through the symptoms, book an appointment and protect your eyes all summer long.