22 Jul 2026
The first heatwave caught many of us by surprise. Then we again found ourselves stoically slogging through temperatures climbing well into the 30s across Hertfordshire and there’s more hot weather forecast for the rest of the summer.
It’s worth remembering that it’s not just our skin that needs looking after in extreme heat (we’re well aware by saying this we’ve cursed it all but…). Our eyes do too.
“We’re brilliant at remembering sun cream,” says Jez. “But people often forget that hot weather, dehydration and UV exposure can all affect your eyes.”
One of the biggest culprits is dehydration.
When your body becomes dehydrated, your eyes can too. That can leave them feeling dry, gritty, irritated and tired. If you wear contact lenses, you’ll often notice it even sooner.
“Contact lenses rely on a healthy tear film to stay comfortable,” explains Jez. “When your eyes start drying out, your lenses can become uncomfortable much more quickly.”
And it’s not just the heat outside that’s the problem.
Air conditioning, fans and dry indoor environments can all strip moisture from the surface of your eyes too. Add a dusty day into the mix and your contact lenses have even more to contend with.
“So here’s a slightly unusual piece of advice from an optician,” laughs Jez. “If it’s really hot and you’re spending the day outside, or moving between hot weather and air-conditioned buildings, wear your glasses if you can.”
Not only do glasses give your eyes a break from contact lenses, they also provide a little protection from dust, pollen and drying winds, helping your eyes stay more comfortable throughout the day.
Of course, if you do choose to wear contact lenses, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water and don’t be afraid to take your lenses out earlier than usual if they start feeling uncomfortable.
Protecting your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light is equally important.
Good quality sunglasses with full UV protection aren’t simply a fashion accessory – they’re an essential part of looking after your long-term eye health.
A wide-brimmed hat can also help reduce the amount ofdirect sunlight reaching your eyes.
Heat can affect your glasses too. Leaving spectacles on a car dashboard or windowsill during very hot weather can expose them to temperatures high enough to damage lens coatings or even warp some frame materials.
“We’ve seen it happen,” says Jez. “If you’re not wearing your glasses, remember our favourite saying – case or face.”
Most importantly, look after yourself.
Extreme heat can affect anyone, but older people, young children and those with existing health conditions can become unwell surprisingly quickly.
If you’re out shopping in Marshalswick or walking around The Quadrant and begin to feel faint, dizzy or simply overwhelmed by the heat, don’t struggle on. Pop into EYES on St Albans.
“You don’t have to be a customer,” says Jez. “If someone needs somewhere cool to sit for a few minutes, a glass of water and a chance to recover, they’re always welcome to come in. That’s just what communities do.”
As temperatures continue to climb, that might just be the most important piece of eye care advice of all.
This summer, staying cool isn’t just about comfort. It’s about staying well. Look after your eyes.
Look after each other.
And if you’re in Marshalswick and the heat catches up with you, remember there’s always a chair, a glass of water and a friendly face waiting at EYES on St Albans. Spex, hugs and rock’n’roll.
