Is it just me or is working from home making your eyes feel and look more tired by the end of the day? All that time spent staring at your laptop or computer, and the endless back-to-back video calls, really does take its toll on the delicate eye area.
We blink 15-20 times a minute, chalking up 28,800 blinks a day. But when you’re focused on something, like reading, watching a video, or working at your computer, you blink less – down to 3-8 times a minute. That’s 60 per cent less blinking.
Less movement means less blood circulation going to the eye area too. Which explains why your eyes look more tired, your dark circles more prominent, and your eye bags more puffy.
How to prevent eye strain
Because you shouldn’t let all the effort you’ve put into using eyecare go to waste. So…
Keep your device’s screen clean. Dust and fingerprint smudges reduce contrast, and creates glare and reflection. You’ll need to strain to see, which tires out your eyes.
Follow the 20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look away and into the distance for 20 seconds.
Set a reminder. Write “Blink” on a sticky note and paste it to your screen to remind you, well, blink.
Squeeze ’em tight. Do a quick eye refresh: close your eyes, count to three, squeeze shut for three counts then open your eyes slowly.
Relieve fatigue with an eye massage. With the tips of your index, middle and ring fingers, gently tap all around the eye area and temples in a circular motion. Press lightly on the pressure points under the brow bone, on either side of your nose, and on the nose bridge next to the tear ducts. This boosts micro-circulation, reduces puffiness and relaxes the muscles in the area.
Staying bright-eyed
Here are eye care products that can keep the delicate eye area healthy and youthful.