Spring eye care: Protecting and prioritising your vision

Eye HealthSeasonal Eye CareSunglasses
Written By Lucinda Howard

As spring blossoms, so do the opportunities to embrace the outdoors—whether it’s longer walks, garden gatherings, or drives in bright daylight. But while we adjust our wardrobes and skincare for the changing season, Spring eye care often gets overlooked. At Arthur Hayes Opticians, we’re putting seasonal eye health front and centre in our latest blog from the monthly eye care series. With brighter sunshine, increased pollen, and more time spent outside, spring brings unique challenges for your eyes. Here’s what you need to know to keep your vision protected, comfortable, and healthy this season.

Spring eye care tips

Increased UV Exposure: A Seasonal Eye Risk

Spring heralds the arrival of longer, sunnier days, which brings increased UV exposure. Many don’t realise that our eyes are just as susceptible to UV damage as our skin. Prolonged exposure can result in photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye), cataracts, and long-term retinal damage. Protecting your eyes with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays is crucial. At Arthur Hayes, we exclusively carry one brand of sunglasses—Maui Jim—because we trust their PolarizedPlus2® lens technology to provide unmatched clarity and full-spectrum UV protection. 

Combatting Spring Allergies and Eye Irritation

Pollen levels surge in spring, resulting in itchy, watery, and red eyes—symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. To alleviate discomfort, avoid rubbing your eyes and keep windows closed during times of high pollen. Using preservative-free lubricating eye drops and wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors can protect your eyes from airborne irritants and lessen symptoms.

Dry Eyes in Warmer Weather

Although often associated with winter, dry eyes can persist in spring due to increased outdoor activity, wind exposure, and rising temperatures. Staying hydrated and incorporating omega-3-rich foods into your diet can support tear production. If dry eyes persist, discussing tailored treatment options during your next visit may be necessary. (Read more about our dry eye clinic)

Digital Device Use Doesn’t Take a Holiday

With more daylight, people often spend longer hours on screens indoors and out—whether reading, working, or streaming. Extended screen time can cause digital eye strain, especially if you blink less. Following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) and wearing blue-light filtering lenses can significantly reduce strain and fatigue. (Read more about screen fatigue)

Spring Cleaning: Don't Forget Your Glasses

This is the perfect season to give your eyewear a deep clean. Dust, pollen, and oil can accumulate on lenses and frames, impacting vision and hygiene. Use a microfiber cloth and a lens-safe cleaning solution daily. Our latest blog on eyewear care offers a detailed routine to help keep your glasses in top condition year-round. (Read more pro cleaning tips)

Prioritising Regular Eye Exams

Spring is the perfect time for a thorough eye check-up. Not only can we ensure that your prescription is current, but our advanced diagnostic tools—including OCT and Optomap scans as standard—allow us to evaluate your eye health with unmatched precision. Regular exams are crucial in preserving long-term vision, from detecting early signs of glaucoma to identifying retinal changes.

Update Your Look with Spring Style

Looking for a fresh frame to match the season? Arthur Hayes Opticians has just introduced new collections from leading designers, featuring vibrant styles from Dutz, classic silhouettes from Cutler & Gross, and timeless luxury from Garrett Leight. Whether you’re seeking bold colours or refined simplicity, we’ll help you find the perfect fit. (View our shop)

The Only Sunglasses You’ll Ever Need

At Arthur Hayes, we believe in doing things exceptionally, so we exclusively stock one brand of sunglasses: Maui Jim. Their lenses offer unparalleled clarity, vivid colour enhancement, and industry-leading UV protection. With a diverse range of styles, from aviators to fashionable frames, there’s a perfect option for every lifestyle and prescription need. (Read More about Maui Jim)

Book Your Spring Eye Health Appointment Today

Don’t let spring pass you by without giving your eyes the attention they deserve. Book your appointment with Arthur Hayes Opticians today if you need a check-up, want to explore our latest eyewear styles, or are ready to experience Maui Jim sunglasses. Our expert team is here to help you see clearly and comfortably—this season and beyond.

Read our other blogs

Blog
AI Revolutionizing Optometry Care
AI Revolutionizing Optometry Care

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various fields, and optometry is no exception. With advancements in machine learning, image processing, and deep learning, AI is enabling optometrists to diagnose and treat various eye conditions more accurately and efficiently.

Read More →
Understanding Eye Floaters: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment Options
Understanding Eye Floaters: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment Options

Probably the most common question I have in clinic is about floaters in the vision. But what exactly are they? I thought I’d write about this in the blog this month as last week I had a sudden new very large floater and it needed assessment.
More about that later…

Read More →
Arcus Senilis (corneal arcus) – What is it?
Arcus Senilis (corneal arcus) – What is it?

Some people express concern about the appearance of the eyes. One question is often about the greyish or white ring around the edge of the cornea (the front surface of the eye).

Read More →
Lucinda Howard
Previous

Protect Your Vision: Avoid These Harmful Eye Health Habits
Next

Pro Tips for Proper Eyewear Care