16/12/2025
Ask the Optometrist: Do Christmas Lights Affect Your Eyes?
Festive lights make Christmas magical, but can they hurt your eyes?
Christmas lights are generally safe, but they can cause temporary discomfort for some people, especially if you already have dry eyes, light sensitivity, migraines, or glaucoma.
Here’s what to watch out for:
Eye strain & headaches: Staring at bright or flashing lights for too long can tire the eyes and trigger headaches.
Glare & halos: People with cataracts, glaucoma, or uncorrected glasses prescriptions may notice more glare or halos around lights at night.
Dry, irritated eyes: Air‑conditioning, harmattan air and long evenings out can worsen dryness, making lights feel extra harsh.
Simple tips to protect your eyes this season:
Avoid staring directly at very bright or flashing lights.
Take regular breaks when driving at night or walking through very bright displays.
Use lubricating eye drops if your eyes feel dry or gritty.
Wear your correct glasses or anti‑glare lenses to reduce strain.
If you notice persistent glare, halos, headaches, or blurry night vision around lights, it could be a sign of an underlying eye problem that needs checking.
📍 Visit us at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi & Ikeja today!!!
Our optometrists are here to answer all your eye‑health questions this festive season and beyond.
Give your eyes the gift of clear, comfortable vision this Christmas.
