The holidays are here, the lights are twinkling, the food smells amazing, and your calendar is full of cheerful chaos. Between the sparkle and the socializing, it’s easy to forget that even simple festive activities can surprise you with eye irritations or injuries.
At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates, we’re all about helping you see the joy of the season, literally! Here are a few ways to keep your eyes merry and bright while you deck the halls, whip up a feast, and stream your favourite holiday classics.
Celebrate with Vision in Mind
Nothing says “holiday spirit” like a home full of sparkle—but tangled light strings and rogue branches can turn decorating into a contact sport for your eyes.
- Check those light strings for frayed wires or broken bulbs before hanging them.
- If you’re climbing a ladder or hanging ornaments high up, wear snug-fitting glasses or clear protective eyewear, branches and airborne dust are not your friends.
- Skip spraying artificial snow near your face, and handle glittery or sharp decorations with care.
Little habits like these go a long way toward preventing scratches and irritation so your eyes can enjoy the view, safely and comfortably.
Cooking, Entertaining & Eye Comfort
The kitchen may be the heart of the holidays, but it’s also where steam, splashes, and sizzling oil hang out.
- Keep cooking zones well-lit and clutter-free, so you’re not squinting through the steam.
- Open oven doors and pot lids away from your face—that sudden cloud of steam isn’t as festive as it looks!
- Wipe up any splatters quickly to prevent them from finding their way into your eyes.
Shifting between bright kitchen lights, glowing screens, and dim dining rooms can strain your eyes too. Stay hydrated, blink often, and adjust lighting to reduce glare.
Screen Time, Socializing & Late-Night Glow
Holiday movies, FaceTime calls, or catching up on “just one more” photo scroll—sound familiar? Prolonged screen time can leave your eyes feeling tired or dry.
Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It gives your eyes a mini-vacation.
Add in a few more comfort boosters:
- Sip water often (holiday cocoa counts less than we’d like).
- Use lubricating eye drops if things feel scratchy.
- Lower your screen brightness to a cozy level, your eyes will thank you.
If Something Does Happen
Accidents happen, even between the best-laid decorations. If you get an eye injury or irritation, don’t wait, call our Westmount clinic.
We offer:
- Comprehensive eye exams
- Emergency and same-day appointments
- Dry-eye assessments and treatments
Whatever the situation, our team is here to help you keep your vision clear and comfortable through the holidays (and the whole year).
Quick Holiday Eye-Safety Checklist
- Wear gloves or safety glasses when hanging lights or trimming trees.
- Protect your face when opening ovens or lifting lids.
- Give your eyes breaks from screens and dim lighting.
- Stay hydrated and blink often, indoor heating can dry eyes quickly.
- Book an eye exam if you notice redness, irritation, or vision changes.
Have a Bright, Joy-Filled Holiday!
At SD Eyecare, we take vision care seriously, but we also believe in celebrating life’s bright moments. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your eyes healthy and your holidays focused on what matters most, joy, laughter, and loved ones.
From all of us at Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates, may your season be clear-sighted and full of cheer!