Why You Should Never Rub Your Eyes (And What to Do Instead)
When your eyes itch, rubbing them may seem like the quickest way to get relief. But while it might feel satisfying in the moment, rubbing your eyes can actually cause long-term damage. From infections to vision problems, here are five reasons why you should break the habit—and some safe alternatives for soothing irritated eyes.
1. You Could Get an Infection
Your hands come into contact with countless bacteria and viruses throughout the day—from door handles and shopping carts to stair railings and mobile phones. Even if you wash your hands regularly, rubbing your eyes transfers bacteria like staphylococcus and streptococcus (staph and strep) into your eyes.
This can lead to painful and highly contagious infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye). If your eyes are itchy, reaching for artificial tears or a cool compress is a much safer way to relieve irritation.
2. You Can Damage Your Cornea
The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface covering your eye’s iris and pupil. Its main job is to help focus light so you can see clearly. For the cornea to work properly, it needs to maintain a smooth and round shape.
Frequent or aggressive eye rubbing weakens corneal tissue over time, which can cause it to thin and bulge outward—a condition known as keratoconus. This condition distorts vision and, in severe cases, may require a corneal transplant. Rubbing with your knuckles is especially damaging, so it’s best to avoid the habit altogether.
3. You Can Worsen Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. This pressure buildup can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Eye rubbing temporarily increases intraocular pressure (IOP), making glaucoma worse for those already diagnosed with the condition. If you have glaucoma or are at risk, it’s crucial to avoid unnecessary pressure on your eyes. Regular check-ups with your optometrist can help detect and manage this condition early.
4. You Can Cause Premature Wrinkles and Dark Circles
The skin around your eyes is delicate and much thinner than the rest of your face. When you rub your eyes frequently, you’re stretching this fragile skin, which can lead to premature wrinkles and fine lines.
Additionally, repeated rubbing can break tiny blood vessels under the skin, leading to dark circles and puffiness. If you’re concerned about aging signs around your eyes, treating them gently and keeping them moisturized is key.
5. You Can Burst Blood Vessels
Rubbing too hard can cause tiny blood vessels in your eyes to break, leading to a red or bloodshot appearance. While not usually a serious issue, this can be alarming and take time to heal. If your eyes frequently appear red or irritated, it may be a sign of an underlying problem that should be evaluated by an optometrist.
How to Stop Rubbing Your Eyes
If you find yourself frequently rubbing your eyes, try these safer alternatives to relieve irritation:
- Flush your eyes with artificial tears or a saline eye wash to remove irritants.
- Use a cold compress to soothe redness and swelling.
- Take antihistamines if allergies are causing itchiness.
- Wear protective eyewear when exposed to dust, pollen, or irritants.
- Consult your optometrist for prescription eye drops or other treatments. In Alberta, eye care visits related to infections, allergies, and other medical concerns are covered by Alberta Health Care.
Book an Eye Exam in Edmonton
If you experience persistent eye irritation, it’s important to consult an optometrist. At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we offer comprehensive eye exams to detect conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, and corneal damage.
Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our locations in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock. Your vision is our priority!
