Protecting Your Eyes During an Alberta Winter
Protecting Your Eyes During an Alberta Winter
What every Edmonton resident should know
Winter in Alberta is beautiful — bright snow, crisp air, and endless outdoor activities. But from an eye doctor’s perspective, winter is also one of the most demanding seasons for your eyes.
Between intense UV reflection off snow, cold winds, dry indoor air, and winter sports, your eyes are under more stress than most people realize. The good news? A few smart habits can go a long way toward protecting your vision this winter.
Here’s what we recommend at Helio Optometry.
1. Winter Sun Is Still UV Exposure
Many people associate UV damage with summer, but snow can reflect up to 80% of ultraviolet light, significantly increasing exposure to your eyes — even on cloudy days.
Over time, UV exposure is linked to:
Cataracts
Macular degeneration
Photokeratitis (often called “snow blindness”)
Quality sunglasses or goggles with 100% UVA and UVB protection are essential during winter walks, driving, skiing, or any time you’re outdoors. Polarized lenses can also help reduce glare from snow and icy roads, making winter conditions more comfortable and safer for your eyes.
2. Use Proper Eye Protection for Winter Activities
Winter sports are fun — but they come with risk. Hockey, skiing, snowboarding, and even tobogganing can expose your eyes to wind, debris, and accidental impact.
Protective eyewear or well-fitted goggles help:
Shield eyes from cold wind and flying debris.
Reduce glare and improve contrast on snowy terrain.
Lower the risk of corneal abrasions and eye injuries.
Snow blindness is more common than most people think and can cause redness, pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. Proper eyewear significantly reduces that risk.
3. Don’t Ignore Winter Dry Eye
Cold outdoor air combined with heated indoor spaces is a perfect recipe for dry eye symptoms. Many patients notice:
Burning or gritty sensations
Redness
Fluctuating or blurry vision
Watery eyes (a common dry eye response)
To help manage winter dryness:
Use a humidifier at home.
Avoid directing car heat vents toward your face.
Take breaks from screens when possible.
Lubricating eye drops can be very helpful, especially preservative-free artificial tears. Drops containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or lipid-based formulations can better support the natural tear film during winter months.
4. Hydration and Blinking Still Matter
People often drink less water in winter, but hydration plays a direct role in tear production and eye comfort. Staying well-hydrated supports overall eye moisture.
Blinking is also critical — especially when outdoors or using digital devices. Each blink spreads tears evenly across the eye and releases oils from the eyelids that slow tear evaporation.
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, flaxseed, or supplements) may also support healthy tear quality for some patients.
Also, one of the simplest and most effective habits you can build into your morning routine is applying a warm compress over your eyes for one to two minutes. Gentle heat helps soften and release the natural oils in your eyelids, supporting a healthier tear film and keeping your eyes more comfortable throughout the day.
When to See Your Optometrist?
While these tips help most people, winter can also reveal or worsen underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye disease, uncorrected vision issues, or UV-related changes.
If you’re noticing ongoing discomfort, blurred vision, or light sensitivity, a comprehensive eye exam can help identify the cause and guide proper treatment.
At Helio Optometry in Edmonton, we tailor eye care to how you actually live — work, sports, screens, and all. Winter shouldn’t limit your vision or comfort.
Book your eye exam today and let’s keep your eyes healthy, comfortable, and clear all winter long.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in West Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.
