If you thought your eyes didn't need extra protection during the winter, you were wrong. While most people know that they need to give their eyes extra protection during the summer, they often fall short of providing the right amount of protection during the winter. If you fall into that category, you need to take action to avoid winter eye damage. Here are just four the steps you can take to protect your eyes when the weather is cold.

Protect Your Eyes When You Go Outside

When you go outside during the winter, you probably remember to put your coat and gloves on. However, you might not remember to protect your eyes from the cold. Unfortunately, the cold weather can cause a lot of damage to your eyes. To protect your eyes from damage, always shield your eyes before going outside. You can do that by wearing a pair of sunglasses, or by wearing a hoodie that will keep the wind and debris out of your eyes. It's also a good idea to carry some moisturizing drops with you whenever you go outside. That way, you can relieve your dry eyes before they become too irritated.

Watch Where You Put Your Fingers

Cold and flu season is in full gear during the winter, which means just about everyone is sick or carrying germs that could make you sick. To protect your eyes from infections, and reduce the spread of sickness, never stick your fingers in your eyes, or rub your eyes with your hands. You could be carrying germs on your hands that could transfer to your eyes.

Think About Replacing Your Makeup

If it's been a while since you replaced your makeup, now might be a good time to do that. Old mascara, eyeshadow, and even the applicators can all collect germs that can cause serious eye infections. You can avoid those painful eye infections by replacing your makeup at least once a year. Think of it as a New Years resolution for your eyes.

Don't Sit Too Close to the Fire

Whether you have a fireplace in your home or a fire pit in the yard, don't see too close to it. The heat from the fire could damage your eyes. Not only that, but hot embers could get into your eyes, which could cause a serious burn. You can avoid those types of injuries by sitting a safe distance away from fireplaces and fire pits.

Don't take chances with your eyes this winter. Use the tips provided above to protect your vision. If you have trouble with your eyes, be sure to contact an optometrist like Northwest Ophthalmology immediately.