Optician's warning over cold weather hack as people smear Vaseline into eyes

25 January 2024 , 09:01

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The cold weather can cause our eyes to water - but should we try and stop it? (Stock photo) (Image: Getty Images/EyeEm)

Another bitter snap is on its way, as temperatures are expected to plunge to -6C.

If the cold British wind is causing your eyes to water - join the club. It's another annoying side effect of our miserable weather, but will often get better on its own without any treatment. The NHS states a pharmacist can help with watering eyes if you think a bigger issue (such as an allergy or dry eye syndrome) is at place.

However, skincare gurus online are raving about a hack that's been described as the 'best tip' to stop those tears falling. It involves smearing Vaseline into the corner of the eyes - and has concerned experts.

TikTok user Dani has garnered an impressive 468,000 followers due to her skincare and beauty advice. One of the influencer's most popular videos shows her using Vaseline as a moisturiser to create a luminous effect on the skin - which she states Marilyn Monroe used to do.

In a more recent video, she can be seen applying Vaseline in the corners of her eye using a Q-tip, which she says stops her eyes from watering altogther. While some users were excited to try the hack one, many were doubtful.

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"Best way to get milia and eye infections," one person wrote. Another commented: "Don't do it - your eyes can swell up." While a third added: "I put Vaseline on my eyes and they puffed up so fast."

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Mark Shelton is an optometrist at Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists and warns people against the hack, even if it is 'effective'. "The eye lids contain meibomian glands which help to regulate the quality of the tears and blocking these glands can cause complications like styes and cysts or even infections," he told the Mail.

The expert recommended wearing sunglasses to shield the eyes from blusterous winds and cold temperatures. He also urged the important of staying hydrated to 'help maintain the natural moisture balance of the eyes'.

People often use Vaseline on their eyelids if they're suffering with dry skin. Whilst experts over at Medical News Today say this is safe - they warn users must be careful and make sure it doesn't enter the eye.

Liam Gilliver