(I-MED Pharma)
Spring has finally arrived! And with it come gentle rain, blooming flowers, and… dry, itchy eyes. In this article, we’re taking a closer look at how the environmental conditions of this time of year can impact the eyes and sharing some tips for managing the discomfort of dry eyes during spring.
An Eye for All Seasons: Understanding Seasonal Dry Eye
Dry eye disease is a complex condition of the surface of the eye. It can involve instability of the tear film (the outer protective layer of the eye’s surface), ocular surface inflammation and damage, as well as a wide range of discomforting symptoms[1]. Because the conditions of our environment play an important role in determining the health of our eyes and tear film, dry eye is often experienced differently at different times of the year.
Studies conducted in various locations across the globe have presented a range of conclusions on whether and how seasonal differences impact the eyes[2], [3]. That said, many of the weather conditions associated with an increase in dry eye symptoms are well-documented, including low humidity[4] and wind[5]. In winter and spring, dry eye is therefore often experienced more acutely.
In springtime, not only can these factors contribute to dry eye patients’ discomfort, but so can the sunshine and heat[6]. What’s more, seasonal allergies also come into play. As the world warms up and the plants and flowers start to blossom, airborne pollen and allergens start to cross our paths. One study conducted in the United States found that dry eye is more prevalent in the winter and spring, and that study participants were most likely to be diagnosed with dry eye during the spring. These results also noted the correlation of this increased rate of diagnosis and peak allergy season[7].
No Bed of Roses: Discomforting Ocular Symptoms in Spring
Spring is infamous for allergies. The surface of the eye being exposed to allergens can lead to itchy, red, and watery eyes, as well as burning, swelling, and sensitivity to light. While not usually a severe health threat, this condition can lead to eye dryness, along with other potential complications like eye infections[8]. The discomfort of this condition can also greatly impact quality of life: no one enjoys the constant itching and urge to rub their eyes (which, incidentally, is never a good idea[9]). Additionally, everyday activities can become more difficult to manage when your eyes are impacted by allergies, such as driving, reading, and any outdoor activities that might otherwise be so tempting given the warmer weather.
Fresh as a Daisy: Spring Ocular Hygiene
So, if your dry eyes are worse in spring, what can you do?
One important consideration is ocular hygiene. Ocular hygiene involves keeping the area around your eyes clean, including your eyelids and lashes. Gently cleaning the area around the eyes helps to remove debris – like pollen and allergens – and reduce bioburden, which can otherwise lead to inflammation and disruption of the tear film and ultimately worsen dry eye symptoms.
Eyelid hygiene products like I-LID ‘N LASH® wipes or pump can be used to keep the eyelids and the eye area clean and hydrated. Adding this step to a dry eye management routine that includes using preservative-free artificial tears helps to break the dry eye cycle and aid in the restoration of corneal health, while also increasing the effectiveness of the artificial tears.
For those in need of a deeper clean, I-LID ‘N LASH® PLUS wipes are an alternative containing 5% tea tree oil (TTO). TTO is a safe and effective essential oil often employed as a cleaning ingredient to cleanse away dirt, bacteria, and toxins.
Additionally, carrying a spray cleanser like I-LID ‘N LASH® HOCL Cleansing Spray is helpful, not only because this spray helps provide optimal cleansing of the lids and lashes when used daily in combination with I-LID ‘N LASH®, but also because it can be used by itself and on the go. With no need to rinse, it’s perfect for when you need a handy way to maintain your eyelid hygiene when you’re out and about.
Nipping Discomfort in the Bud: Additional Tips for Managing Dry Eye in Spring
Beyond ocular hygiene, one of the surest ways of finding relief from the discomforting symptoms of dry eye is to apply a preservative-free artificial tear. These eye drops for dry eyes help to keep the eyes hydrated and to protect the surface of the eye.
I-MED Pharma offers preservative-free, viscoadaptive artificial tears that provide long-lasting relief for mild to severe dry eye. For mild dry eye, and for those who wear contacts, the contact-lens compatible drop I-DROP® PUR is the perfect solution. I-DROP® PUR GEL provides relief for more severe dry eye. For those who suffer from chronic evaporative dry eye and MGD, I-DROP® MGD offers comfort and hydration while also reducing evaporation of the tear film.
In addition to keeping your eyes clean and hydrated with the appropriate products, some lifestyle changes may also make a difference to your comfort. Taking a systemic approach to your eye health is often beneficial. This can involve ensuring you stay hydrated and that you get the recommended daily dose of omega-3. An omega-3 supplement in the re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) form like I-VU® OMEGA-3 PLUS can help provide relief and improve symptoms of dry eye. Wearing sunglasses will protect your eyes from UV rays and from wind, which carries airborne allergens. Using a humidifier can also help keep the humidity levels up in your home or at work and lessen the drying effects of the air[10].
For those who suffer from headaches, using a therapeutic mask can be helpful in finding relief. The I-RELIEF™ Hot & Cold Therapy Eye Mask with ThermaBeads™ is designed to provide relief from headaches, sinus pressure, tension, swelling, and puffiness when used cold, as well as from symptoms associated with dry eye disease, blepharitis, MGD, and styes when used hot.
Conclusion
Spring can be a difficult time for those who suffer from dry eye disease and seasonal allergies. If ever you experience any unusual discomfort or cause for concern, it’s always advisable to speak with your eye care professional, whom you should be seeing for regular visits. However, with the right management practices, including keeping your eyes clean and hydrated, it’s possible to alleviate discomfort so you too can stop and smell the roses!
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[1] Craig, Jennifer P., et al. TFOS DEWS II Report. Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society, 2017, https://www.tfosdewsreport.org/report-definition_and_classification/48_36/en/. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.
[2] Eidet, Jon Roger, et al. “Seasonal Variations in Presenting Symptoms and Signs of Dry Eye Disease in Norway.” Scientific Reports, vol. 12, no. 1, 6 Dec. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-25557-9.
[3] Kumar, Naresh, et al. “Seasonal Variation in Dry Eye.” Ophthalmology, vol. 122, no. 8, 6 Apr. 2015, pp. 1727–1729, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ophtha.2015.02.013.
[4] Kabata, Yoshiaki, et al. “Seasonal Variations and Environmental Influences on Dry Eye Operations in Japan.” Scientific Reports, vol. 14, no. 1, 28 Dec. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-82051-0.
[5] Van Setten, Gysbert, et al. “Evidence of Seasonality and Effects of Psychrometry in Dry Eye Disease.” Acta Ophthalmologica, vol. 94, no. 5, 23 Apr. 2016, pp. 499–506, https://doi.org/10.1111/aos.12985.
[6] Van Setten, Gysbert, et al. “Evidence of Seasonality and Effects of Psychrometry in Dry Eye Disease.” Acta Ophthalmologica, vol. 94, no. 5, 23 Apr. 2016, pp. 499–506, https://doi.org/10.1111/aos.12985.
[7] Kumar, Naresh, et al. “Seasonal Variation in Dry Eye.” Ophthalmology, vol. 122, no. 8, 6 Apr. 2015, pp. 1727–1729, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ophtha.2015.02.013.
[8] Baab, Shad, et al. “Allergic Conjunctivitis.” StatPearls., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 Jan. 2024, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448118/.
[9] Hage, Alexandre, et al. “EYERUBBICS: The Eye Rubbing Cycle Study.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, vol. 12, no. 4, 15 Feb. 2023, p. 1529, https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12041529.
[10] Dang, Shirley. “The Link between Seasonal Allergens and Dry Eye.” Medically reviewed by Devin A Harrison, American Academy of Ophthalmology, 20 Apr. 2017, www.aao.org/eye-health/news/allergies-linked-to-dry-eye.