A Spring in your step but pollen in your eyes!

While we have all been desperately waiting for these longer, brighter days, we cannot ignore the fact that before we enjoy the splendours of Summer, us hayfever sufferers first must survive the torture of Spring. And for those of you unaffected by pollen, be thankful. Be very thankful. But for the rest of us, we pray that not all of our senses will be held hostage. 

Hayfever is very common and affects 10-15% of children and 26% of adults in the UK, according to Skadding et al (2017). It can significantly affect quality of life, work and school performance and attendance, and is a risk factor for the development of asthma. Whether you are an itchy-eyed, scratchy-throat or bunged-up nosed sufferer (or like me, a ghastly combination of all three), understand that this isn’t down to bad luck.

Hayfever symptoms are caused by the body’s response to increased pollen in the environment. It particularly affects these areas: eyes, nose, throat, sinuses, lower airways, and more. Fortunately, we are not completely defenceless: our eyelashes, nose hairs and throat mucus (thank you body!) help to protect us against pollen. 

Here are five things that you have probably never considered which could help to reduce your uncomfortable symptoms:

1) let's WRAP it up!

Whether that be sunglasses, your usual prescription glasses or even clear glasses without prescription: your eyes might appreciate having a physical barrier. Wrap-around sunglasses offer more protection in this way and so might just be your best friend!

2) Do a little more!

Now most of us may think that our skincare routines are solid. But if you are only washing your face once a day, relying on face wipes only, or using the same facial cleanser year-round, you may benefit from spending a little more time cleansing your eyelids or changing your generic product to a specific eye cleansing gel. Remember, pollen is weakened when wet so giving the eyelids a good wash, might just do wonders.

3) Slow down!

Not only do you need to spend more time cleansing the eyes to accurately remove any product, pollen and other pollutants, you need to factor in the fact that your eyes are more sensitive at this time. So instead of rushing through your skincare or makeup routines, give yourself a few extra minutes to get ready so you can get a few good blinks in between each step.

4) Treat your pets too

Our furry friends, specifically dogs and cats, can carry pollen on their fur or hair which can be transferred to you after petting, stroking or snuggling with them. Wipe pets’ coats with a damp microfibre cloth to remove pollens if they have been out, you've had windows open or you're feeling extra sensitive.

5) Immunotherapy

Now there have been major developments in allergen immunotherapy. According to Merriam-Webster, Immunotherapy is classified as the treatment or prevention of disease that involves the stimulation, enhancement, suppression, or desensitisation of the immune system. Allergen immunotherapy for hayfever isn't currently something currently offered on the NHS, but this could still be something worth investigating.

These are just a few things that goes beyond the usual antihistamine discussion that is had every year. Remember, not to take this advice in place of advice given by your GP or eye care professional.

References: GK Scadding et al, 2017., Comert, Karakaya, & Kalyoncu, (2016)., Mahmoudi, M. (2025)., Feindor et al., 2026)