Techniques for Eye Care

Always try to get a decent amount of sleep. Your body and especially your eyes will let you know how much you need. Fatigue invariably leads to redness around the eyes, bags and dark shadows. If your eyes are tired and dry or irritated by hay fever, try not rubbing them.

Make time to rest your eyes for ten minutes after a busy day. Place a piece of cucumber or cotton ball dampened with witch hazel or a gentle skin tonic or astringent over each eye, lies back and simply relaxes. Always do this indoors or in the shade. If you lie in hot sun with damp cotton balls on your eyes, you are risking swollen eyelids.

If you are on a long flight or train journey, take ten minutes to close your eyes and relax. Stress and worry can cause fatigue and insomnia neither of which is any good for your eyes. Invest in a pair of good sunglasses. It is worth paying a little extra for a pair with a not reflective glass. Remember, you are buying eye protection as well as a fashion item. Always use them for driving on sunny days, and be sure to put on sunglasses or an eye shade when sunbathing or sitting under an infrared lamp. Few things age the skin faster than ultraviolet rays.

Have your eyes tested regularly. If you neglect your eye sight, you will find yourself developing all sorts of bad habits - squinting, frowning, and screwing up your eyes - in an effort to see properly. Do not leave your makeup on overnight.

Remove makeup carefully. Take off your eye makeup before turning your attention to the rest of your face, so that you do not end up just scrubbing over it with a cotton ball. Avoid overuse of cosmetic eye drops. Although they are useful if you eyes need freshening up. If for example, you are tired, or your eyes have been irritated and made bloodshot by dust or wind, excessive use can lead to cataracts. If you want to bathe your eyes, it is better to use a medicinal eye bath. Never use cosmetic eye drops with contact lenses. If your eyes are constantly dry and sore, consult your doctor or optician.

Do not read in a poor light, because it can give your eye strain. Try not to use your eyes excessively. Sitting for long hours staring at a computer screen or watching television or videos for very long periods can also lead to eye strain. Close your eyes frequently, never stare. It seems absurd to have to remember to blink, but it is very important, as it gives the eye the oxygen it needs.

Wear goggles for swimming, the chlorine in swimming pools is a known irritant, and it can leave your eyes red and stinging. Water retention can lead to bags under the eyes, and excessive alcohol intake is especially bad. Smoking is also unhelpful, especially as many smokers develop bad facial habits such as squinting. Try not to sit for too long in a smoky atmosphere, as this dries out the natural moisture of the yes and can lead to redness and stinging.