Is it normal for eyes to gush water when walking outside in the cold?

94% Normal
3 Comments

I live in an area that has pretty harsh winter weather, with average temps around -12 C. Whenever I walk to class my eyes absolutely gush water. I'm not running or biking and it doesn't even have to be very windy it just has to be cold. It totally ruins my make up so I don't really wear much anymore in the winter because I know by the time I get to my class which is 15 min walk away it'll just be a mess or just gone. Does anyone else have this? Is it normal? Is there anything I can do to make it less severe?

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94% Normal
Based on 18 votes (17 yes)
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Comments ( 3 )
  • Tesscaline
    9 years ago

    Totally normal! When cold air hits your eyes, they start to produce more tears so they don't dry up. Cold air increases water evaporation, so they kick into overdrive. It can be worse if there's not much humidity in the air, and certain people react more severely than others. Don't worry, it's 100% natural.

    Are you taking any decongestants? Those can dry you up. Also exposure to smoke, and there's a slight chance you may have an eye condition where you'll need some eyedrops.

    If it's just the natural response, you can get some goggles for being outside. I know you might be afraid they'd look dorky but there are some that are small & look like nice sunglasses (also protects from UV rays!) that really aren't that bad, and will keep your mascara lookin' good!

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  • chained_rage
    9 years ago

    I like that you stopped wearing makeup in the cold so that you don't look like a woman running away from chris brown in fear.
    If you are not wearing any eyeshadow or mascara, you can rub your eyes with your finger knuckles before going out into the cold.

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  • kingofcarrotflowers
    9 years ago

    My eyes always water in the cold, can't say I've found anything that helps though

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