If you’ve ever stepped out of a shower wondering why your eyes are stinging, you’re not alone.
The answer isn’t always straightforward—it could be as simple as soap irritation or something more complex like dry eye disease. The good news? There are ways to address the discomfort and find relief.
Let’s explore why your eyes might burn in the shower, the common causes of irritation, practical steps to keep your eyes comfortable, and when it’s time to visit your optometrist.
Could Sleep Be Causing Your Eyes to Burn in the Shower?
Your eyes rely on blinking to recirculate and refresh your tears. But when you’re asleep, this process pauses, and toxins can accumulate beneath your eyelids, causing irritation—especially if you have dry eye disease.
Another possible cause is lagophthalmos, a condition where your eyelids don’t fully close during sleep, leaving your eyes partially exposed. This can lead to significant dryness and even pain upon waking.
What Does It Mean if Your Eyes Burn in the shower?
A burning sensation in the shower might be a sign of dry eye disease. Your tear film includes a lipid (oil) layer that prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. If you have evaporative dry eye disease, inflammation in your eyelids can thicken this lipid layer, altering your tear chemistry and causing burning sensations throughout the day.
Shower-related eye irritation can be caused by various factors. Let’s dive into the most common reasons—and how you can soothe and prevent discomfort.
Chemicals in Your Eyes
If your eyes burn after washing your face, soap, shampoo, or other shower products are likely to be the cause. Our eyes are highly sensitive, and even a small amount of irritant can trigger discomfort. Before addressing the issue, wash your hands clean to avoid introducing bacteria. If you’re wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately to prevent further irritation. To flush your eyes, use warm (not hot) water and let it flow gently into your eyes while showering. Alternatively, you can tilt your head under a faucet or pour water gently over your eye using a clean cup or pitcher.
Follow any instructions provided on the product label for flushing your eyes; if none are available, rinse your eyes for at least 15 minutes and seek medical assistance. Avoid rubbing your eyes at all costs, as this could push the irritant deeper and worsen the situation. Taking these steps promptly can help alleviate the discomfort and reduce the risk of further complications.
Allergies
Allergies are a frequent cause of burning, itchy, or watery eyes. Common triggers like pollen, dust, and pet dander can irritate your eyes—even during a relaxing shower. This happens because your immune system mistakenly identifies these harmless substances as threats. In response, it releases histamines, which cause inflammation, itching, and discomfort.
To alleviate symptoms, antihistamines—whether over-the-counter or prescription—can help by blocking the release of histamines and reducing irritation. It’s also important to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate the discomfort and further inflame sensitive tissues. Managing your allergies effectively can help keep your eyes feeling comfortable.
Contact Lens Issues
Contact lenses are a great way to correct vision, but improper use can often result in chronic eye irritation, including burning sensations. Common mistakes like wearing contacts for too long, failing to clean them properly, or not replacing them on schedule can lead to discomfort and even increase the risk of eye infections.
To avoid these issues, it’s essential to follow the care instructions specific to your lens type and brand. Never sleep in your contacts unless your doctor has prescribed lenses designed for extended wear. Additionally, keeping your lenses clean and replacing them as directed will help prevent buildup and irritation, ensuring your eyes stay healthy and comfortable.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can make your eyes more sensitive to environmental factors, such as steam or heat from a shower. It can arise from several causes, including allergies, improper contact lens use, or imbalances in tear production. These factors can disrupt the tear film, leading to discomfort and irritation, particularly in environments that exacerbate dryness.
To address dry eye syndrome, it’s important to identify the root cause, which may require a professional evaluation and an eye exam. An eye care specialist can help determine a course of treatment tailored to your specific needs, ensuring long-term relief and improved comfort.
Relief is Just a Call Away
You don’t have to live with the discomfort of burning or dry eyes before, during or after showering—whether it happens in the morning, or throughout the day. Understanding the cause is the first step toward finding relief, and our team at Seal Beach Eyes is here to help.
With personalized care, we’ll work with you to uncover the root of your symptoms and create a treatment plan that suits your needs. Don’t let irritation hold you back—contact us today and take the first step toward healthier, happier eyes!
