As students pack up for college, eye health might not be the first thing on their checklist—but it should be. Campus life often means late-night study sessions, more screen time, new routines, and exposure to environments that can put eyes at risk. From contact lens hygiene to digital strain, small steps can make a big difference in keeping vision clear and comfortable.
Here are six simple but powerful ways to help your college student protect their eyes and maintain 20/20 vision:
Wearing contacts in water—whether it’s the shower, pool, or lake—exposes the eyes to harmful bacteria. This can increase the risk of serious infections. Remind your student to always remove contacts before water activities.
College often means long hours indoors staring at screens. Spending time outdoors not only helps reduce eye strain but also supports healthy vision development. Plus, a walk outside is a great way to recharge between classes.
From crowded lecture halls to shared dorms, germs spread quickly on campus. Clean hands are the first line of defense against eye infections—especially for students who wear contact lenses or use eye drops.
Staring at a laptop or phone for hours can cause digital eye strain. Encourage your student to take regular breaks: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It’s a quick way to reset tired eyes.
Dorm life often means sharing, but makeup—especially eye products like mascara and eyeliner—should never be swapped. Sharing makeup spreads bacteria that can lead to eye infections.
From chemistry labs to intramural sports, protective eyewear is a must. Accidents happen, but proper protection can prevent serious injuries and keep vision safe.
A new school year is the perfect time to remind students that healthy vision is part of overall well-being. Regular eye exams and smart habits will help them see clearly, focus better, and stay on top of their studies.
Learn more from the American Academy of Ophthalmology: Academy EyeSmart
