Snow holidays are all about skiing, snowboarding, and beautiful landscapes. However, if you wear contact lenses, the cold, wind, altitude, and intense light require a little extra care. Here are 5 tips to enjoy the mountains with comfortable eyes.
1. Choose the right lenses
At high altitudes, the air is drier and less oxygen reaches the cornea. Silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to pass through and are more comfortable for long days. For a holiday, daily disposable lenses are often the most practical choice: a new pair every morning, with no need to carry solutions or cases.
2. Impeccable hygiene
If you use monthly or bi-weekly lenses, take a travel kit with you including a clean case and multi-purpose solution. Wash and dry your hands well before touching your lenses. Never rinse your lenses or the case with tap water (or snow!): use only the solution.
3. Protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles
Snow reflects a large portion of UV rays, which can inflame the cornea if left unprotected. Always wear sunglasses with UV protection or ski goggles over your contact lenses, which also shield you from the wind. In flat light or fog, yellow-orange lenses increase contrast and help you read the slopes better.
4. Keep lubricating drops on hand
Cold and wind dry out the eyes, and you feel this more while wearing contact lenses. Keep lubricating drops compatible with contact lenses with you and use them when you feel your eyes getting dry. If you aren't sure which ones to choose, ask us for advice.
5. Take breaks and carry spare glasses
During the day, take a few breaks and listen to your eyes. If you feel any discomfort, remove your lenses and put on your spare glasses: in the mountains, it is always better to have an alternative in your pocket.
If your eye stays red, is painful, tears up a lot, or if your vision remains blurry even after removing the lenses, do not put them back in and consult an eye doctor. For more advice, also read how cold weather affects our eyes.
Ready for the snow
Before you leave, stop by Ottica Paoletti in Pieve di Soligo: we can help you choose the right lenses, solutions, and sunglasses for the mountains. Enjoy the snow!