Dry Eyes in Harmattan & Winter: Why Your Vision Feels Worse in January
Do your eyes feel gritty, irritated, or tired this time of year?
That’s because January is peak dry-eye season and it directly affects how well you see.
In Harmattan and winter months, the air becomes drier and dustier, which weakens the tear film that keeps your eyes clear and comfortable.
Why winter causes dry eyes
1. Low humidity dries out your tear film
Cold, dry air evaporates your natural tears faster. Without a healthy tear layer:
- Vision becomes blurry
- Eyes burn or sting
-
Light feels harsher
2. Dust and wind irritate the eyes
Harmattan dust constantly enters the eyes, causing inflammation and reflex tearing, which paradoxically makes eyes even drier afterward.
3. More indoor screen use
Air-conditioned rooms and screens reduce blinking, making dryness worse and increasing eye strain.
How dry eyes affect your glasses
When your eyes are dry, lenses:
- Appear less clear
- Feel uncomfortable
-
Cause more glare and fatigue
This is why many people think they need a new prescription in January when what they really need is better lens technology and eye protection.
How eyewear helps protect dry eyes
The right glasses do more than correct vision, they also protect your eyes:
- Oversized frames block wind and dust
- Anti-reflective lenses reduce light scatter
- Polarized lenses minimize squinting
-
Blue-light coatings reduce screen strain
Bôhten frames are designed for stability, comfort, and facial balance, helping keep your eyes protected during harsh winter conditions.
Protect your eyes and save
Our End of Winter Sale (35% off select frames) is the perfect time to invest in eyewear that keeps your eyes comfortable and vision clear through the dry season.
Dry eyes don’t have to mean poor vision.
With the right lenses and frames, you can see and feel better all winter long.