Dry, irritated eyes in a place as lush and humid as Hawaiʻi might seem counterintuitive—but it’s a more common issue than most people realize. From volcanic smog (vog) to salty trade winds and marathon screen sessions, several local factors quietly conspire against your eye comfort. If you’ve been rubbing your eyes more than usual or reaching for eye drops throughout the day, you’re not alone.
Below, our eye care team discusses what’s really causing dry eye in Hawaiʻi—and what you can do to treat it effectively.
Can You Get Dry Eye in a Humid Place Like Hawaiʻi?
Absolutely. Dry eye disease isn’t just about arid climates—it’s about how well your tear film holds up against irritants and daily strain. Here in Hawaiʻi, dry eye is surprisingly common thanks to a few tropical culprits:
- Vog (volcanic smog): Emitted from Kīlauea, vog is packed with sulfur dioxide and particulates that can inflame and irritate the eyes.
- Trade winds: Constant airflow over the eyes speeds up evaporation, especially for those who work or play outdoors.
- Ocean spray and salt: Salt dehydrates the ocular surface and leaves behind gritty residue.
- Dehydration: Hot weather and active lifestyles can lead to lower water intake, affecting tear production.
- Screen time: Extended computer and phone use reduces blink rate, making tear evaporation more likely.
How Do You Know if You Have Dry Eye?
Dry eye can show up in a number of frustrating ways:
- Burning, gritty, or stinging sensations
- Redness or a feeling like there’s sand in your eye
- Blurred vision that clears when blinking
- Eye fatigue, especially after screen time
- Excessive tearing (your body’s way of trying to compensate)
Over-the-Counter Relief: What Actually Works?
The drugstore aisle is packed with options, but not all eye drops are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Preservative-free artificial tears: A safe bet for regular use, less likely to cause rebound irritation.
- Lubricating gels or ointments: Better for overnight use—they coat the eye and last longer.
- Avoid “redness relief” drops: These often contain vasoconstrictors that don’t address the root cause and can lead to long-term redness.
Want to make OTC drops even more effective? Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds—and don’t forget to blink!
When Eye Drops Aren’t Enough: Prescription & In-Office Relief
If over-the-counter options aren’t cutting it, a visit to your optometrist is the next step. Chronic dry eye often needs more than surface-level care. Here are a few common prescription and in-office treatments that can bring real relief:
- Prescription eye drops: These reduce inflammation or help increase tear production (e.g., Restasis®, Xiidra®).
- Punctal plugs: Tiny inserts that help your eyes retain moisture by blocking tear drainage.
- Meibomian gland therapy: Treatments that restore healthy oil production in the tear film.
- Blepharitis management: A consistent lid hygiene routine or in-office cleaning can reduce inflammation.
Hydration and Daily Habits: Small Changes, Big Impact
Treating dry eye in Hawaiʻi isn’t just about eye drops—it’s also about creating an environment where your eyes can thrive. Here’s how to keep things balanced:
- Drink more water: Dehydration is a sneaky trigger for dry eyes.
- Use sunglasses with side shields: Block wind, salt spray, and harmful UV rays.
- Take screen breaks often: Blinking helps naturally refresh the eyes.
- Run a humidifier indoors: Especially in air-conditioned environments.
- Limit vog exposure: Close windows on voggy days and wear protective eyewear outside.
Local Care That Understands Hawaiʻi Eyes
Island life is beautiful, but your eyes face unique environmental challenges. Whether it’s vog from Kīlauea, salty breezes from the coast, or long commutes through dusty roads, dry eye symptoms are a common concern for patients from Hilo to Ocean View.
If your eyes feel gritty, tired, or just plain off, don’t ignore the signs. The team at Eye Care Hawaii understands the local lifestyle—and the toll it can take on your vision. We offer personalized care and advanced solutions to help you see clearly and comfortably every day.
Let’s help your eyes feel like home again. Request an appointment with Eye Care Hawaii today.