The eyes are delicate part of the body. They need extra care and attention because they give sight and vision. If you are in the city centre, chances are you are exposed to certain levels of toxicity – from carbon monoxide to other harmful gases which in all threaten eyesight.
Some people don’t mind, but having clear bright eyes is a sign of good health. Besides medical doctors always check the eyes during consultation. This goes to show that the eyes play a vital role in our health. If you are bent on having clear eyes, the following tips would help out:
1. Avoid dry air
When your eyes don’t have enough moisture, they can become irritated, scratchy, and red. Air at high altitudes, in desert climates, and in airplanes can be especially dry. Wind and smoke can also dry out your eyes, as can hair dryers and car heaters that blow directly into your eyes. So avoid dry air if you can, and carry eye drops to help hydrate your eyes when you know you’ll be in a dry place
2. Put green tea bags on your eyelids
If your eyes are puffy, swollen, or irritated, placing green tea bags on your eyelids may help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. The best way to use green tea on your eyes is to first steep the tea bags in some water. Then, let the tea bags cool completely — or even better, put them in the fridge for about 15 minutes. Once the tea bags are cool, lie down, close your eyes, and place them on your eyelids for 10 minutes.
3. Increase your intake of omega fatty acid
According to a review of studies, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplements are effective for the treatment of dry eye syndrome. To keep your eyes well-hydrated and healthy, try to increase your intake of these fatty acids. Good sources of omega fatty acids include:
- salmon
- mackerel
- sardines
- flax seeds
- chia seeds
- walnuts
4. Use cucumbers to avoid puffiness
Cucumber juice contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as vitamin C, which can soothe tired skin and eyes. To use, cut two cucumber slices about a half-inch thick. Lie down, and apply a slice to each eyelid for 15 minutes to help refresh your eyes and skin.
5. Try eye massage
A simple massage around your eyes can help improve lymph drainage and boost circulation. This can ease inflammation and also reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes.
To do an eye massage, follow these steps:
- Use the fingertips of your index and middle fingers to gently tap in a circle around your eyes. This can help increase blood flow to the area.
- Start along with your eyebrows, then move your fingertips outward to the edge of your eyes, and down along the top of your cheekbones, moving inward toward the bridge of your nose.
- Circle your eyes three times with your fingertips.
- Then, using your middle fingers, press upward on either side of your nose, right below your brow bone.
- Next, using your middle fingers, press inward toward your nose, next to your tear ducts.
- Be careful not to pull or drag your skin while you’re moving your fingertips around your eye area.
6. Get quality good sleep
If you aren’t getting adequate sleep, sooner or later your eyes will likely show signs of fatigue and sleep deprivation. Aim to get to bed early enough to allow yourself to get a minimum of 7 to 9 hours of sleep. To help you sleep well and to prevent eye problems, you may want to put your electronic devices away well before bedtime.
7. Protect your eyes from sunrays
Protecting your eyes from the sun can help prevent dry eyes, and it may also reduce your risk of sunburn on your eyelids or on the sensitive skin under your eyes. To protect your eyes, consider wearing wraparound sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection when you’re exposed to direct sunlight. You can also add safety shields to the sides of eyeglasses to help block wind and dry air.
8. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is an important part of your overall health, but it’s particularly important for your eyes and skin. Try to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to ensure your body has enough moisture to keep your eyes lubricated and hydrated. You may need to drink more water if the weather is warmer than usual and if you’re active.
9. Take eye breaks
If you’re doing work that requires visual concentration, like reading or looking at a computer screen, take eye breaks at least once every 20 minutes. Visually focusing on one area for too long can cause your eyes to become dry, tired, or irritated. To give your eyes a break, try closing your eyes for a few minutes. Or blink quickly for a few seconds to help spread your eye’s natural tears evenly over the surface of your eyes.