If you are new to ocean activities you might be worried about saltwater getting into your eyes. Does it hurt? Is it safe? Here, we’ll explore all of the science and recommendations around whether or not you can open your eyes in the ocean.
Can you open your eyes underwater?
The idea of opening your eyes underwater might be daunting if you have never done it. If you have had a little bit of salt get into your eye in the past, you’ll know it can sting. But opening your eyes underwater actually is possible.
Although it is fine to open your eyes underwater, you won’t actually be able to see much because everything will look blurry. Even your hand in front of your face will not appear clear. Opening your eyes underwater can be helpful when grabbing a dropped item that is easy to spot even if it’s blurry. But for snorkeling, you will need a mask to see all the wonderful marine life clearly.
If you have to open your eyes underwater, it’s best to submerge your face first, and open your eyes slowly. Pinching the nose can also make the experience more comfortable so you don’t risk water getting into your nose and sinuses as you are submerged. Take a few seconds to get comfortable with your eyes open in the saltwater before trying to swim or dive.
If you wear contact lenses, we wouldn’t suggest opening your eyes underwater, simply because you are likely to lose them when the water enters your eyes.
Does opening your eyes in saltwater hurt?
Opening your eyes underwater shouldn’t hurt, especially if you only do it for very quick moments. You might experience a slight sting at first if you have particularly sensitive eyes, but this should pass quickly.
Although it’s not painful to open your eyes underwater, most people don’t find it particularly comfortable. This is just because they are not able to see clearly, and because their nose isn’t covered (unless they hold their nostrils closed), which can risk having water get into the nose and sinuses and cause you to feel uncomfortable. This is another reason why a mask or goggles can be very helpful when doing water activities.
Most people would agree that opening your eyes in saltwater is a lot more comfortable than opening your eyes in chlorinated water, which is in swimming pools. This is because chlorinated water uses chemicals to keep the water sanitary for swimmers. These chemicals can slightly sting the eyes, especially if your eyes are open for more than a few seconds underwater. If you are to experience saltwater getting into your eyes, chances are it will not hurt as much as the pool water did.
Is saltwater safe for eyes?
You might be wondering if it is even safe to get salt water in your eyes. The answer is yes, it’s generally safe for saltwater to get into your eyes, and it shouldn’t cause any damage. Because there is more salt in saltwater than in your own tears, your eyes may burn when you open them in the ocean. Granted, saline solution includes saltwater and this is often used to rinse eyes to give them more hydration and moisture.
Be wary of extended time with open eyes underwater — the salt can dehydrate your eyes and cause them to feel uncomfortable.
An additional potential risk with getting saltwater in your eyes would is the bacteria in the ocean water. Bacteria might be present in warmer waters or ocean areas near run-off or sewage systems. The risk is still quite low, but remember to rinse your eyes with fresh water after swimming, just to make sure no bacteria stays in your eyes.
Another factor to consider when you open your eyes in the ocean is that the salt may dry onto the skin close to your eyes. This skin is quite sensitive and salt could irritate it and make it feel sore. This is another reason to rinse your face with fresh water after going in the ocean, just to make sure the salt doesn’t cause irritation when it dries.
