A common habit that has more dangers than you might think!
Rubbing your eyes might feel totally normal and harmless when you’re trying to get rid of an uncomfortable feeling or you are tired. But here’s the thing: it can actually mess up your eye health big time, especially if you go at it too forcefully or way too often. Keep reading to find out why you gotta ditch this habit once and for all.
Cornea scratches
According to the Cleveland Clinic, eye rubbing can cause micro-scratches on the cornea that can lead to serious damage, including scar tissue and permanent vision problems.
Keratoconus: A risky consequence![]()
The Atlantic Eye Institute warns that excessive eye rubbing can lead to keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and changes shape, causing blurry, distorted vision.
Increased risk of eye infection
A scratched or thin membrane makes the eye more prone to infections, including fungal infections. Eye infections can occur if the eye is inflamed or scratched or if bacteria are transferred from the hands to the eye.
Aging and wrinkles![]()
Dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp told HuffPost that rubbing eyes increases the risk of lichenification, which means the thickening of the skin. Not only does that accentuate wrinkles, but it can also make skin dry and scaly.
Histamine overdrive
According to the Atlantic Eye Institute, if you suffer from allergy-related itchy eyes, rubbing them acts to accelerate the histamine response. While it may provide some temporary relief, you’ll experience worse allergy symptoms afterward.
Dark circles![]()
“Especially for those with darker skin, rubbing the eyes has the effect of accelerating the production of skin pigment in the area,” dermatologist Dr. Angelo Thrower told HuffPost. This effect is also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
It can worsen glaucoma
When you rub your eyes, you put pressure on the inner, fluid-filled chamber of the eyes. According to Atlantic Eye Institute, this can make glaucoma, which is treated by relieving excess pressure there, even worse.
Raccoon eyes![]()
If you’ve ever rubbed your eyes while wearing mascara, you’ll know how fast your look can go from polished to unhinged.
Bloodshot eyes
Besides the makeup smudge, dermatologist Dr. Snehal Amin told HuffPost that eye rubbing is often the culprit behind tired-looking eyes. While not always the case, bloodshot eyes can have their origin in rubbing until capillaries are broken.
Increased risk for COVID-19![]()
Virus droplets for infections like COVID-19 can enter through membranes in your eyes, according to the University of Utah. If you get droplets on your hand, then rub your eyes, you could get sick. Likewise, if you’re sick and rub your eyes, you may be helping spread the virus.
Unsightly styes 
Most styes are caused by Staphylococcus bacteria that live on your skin. According to Healthline, one of the leading risk factors for getting styes is rubbing your eyes.
The need for spectacles
According to the Atlantic Eye Institute, keratoconus, caused by rubbing, can result in the need for costly prescription glasses.
It will ruin your LASIK surgery![]()
The number one rule after LASIK surgery is “don’t rub your eyes!” That’s because a flap created during the surgery needs to stay in place to heal properly, according to Kraff Eye Institute.
Can cause and worsen blepharitis 
Blepharitis makes your eyelids red, itchy, and a little swollen and can cause scaliness. It is often caused by excess bacteria, which can be transferred from your hands. And if you have it, rubbing your eyes can just make it worse.
Light sensitivity![]()
