A hair in the eye causes an immediate and intense foreign body sensation, triggering the natural reflex to rub the affected area. This instinct, however, is the most dangerous reaction, as rubbing can easily scratch the delicate, transparent surface of the cornea, creating an abrasion. Protecting the eye from further injury is paramount. The safest approach involves gentle, deliberate actions designed to encourage the eye’s natural clearing mechanism and remove the hair without causing damage to the eye’s surface.
Step-by-Step Safe Removal
The first step is to encourage the eye’s natural defenses by rapid blinking to stimulate tear production. Tears lubricate the hair, helping to wash it toward the inner corner or out completely. If the hair is felt beneath the upper lid, gently pull the upper lid down over the lower lid; this may help dislodge the particle using the lower lashes like a brush.
If blinking fails, the next step is a controlled flush using a sterile solution, such as a commercial eyewash or preservative-free saline. Sterile saline is preferred because it is isotonic, matching the natural salt concentration of tears and minimizing irritation. Direct the fluid from the inner corner of the eye, near the nose, flowing outward to prevent the hair from traveling into the tear duct system.
Avoid using tap water for a prolonged flush, especially if the eye feels scratched, as non-sterile water can introduce microorganisms and cause infection. If the hair remains visible on the white part of the eye or along the inside of the lower lid, gently lift it with a clean, damp cotton swab or the corner of a clean cloth. Only touch the hair itself, not the eyeball. Never attempt to scrape the hair from the cornea, and never use dry materials, tweezers, or sharp instruments near the eye.
Signs of Injury Requiring Medical Care
Even after successful removal, the hair may have caused a small scratch on the cornea, known as a corneal abrasion. Because the cornea is densely packed with nerve endings, even a minor abrasion causes significant discomfort. If severe pain persists, or if the feeling of a foreign object continues for more than an hour after the hair is gone, seek medical attention immediately.
Other symptoms indicating potential injury include prolonged redness or a distinct sensitivity to light. Any noticeable blurring or reduction in vision, as well as excessive discharge, are serious signs requiring prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional. If these symptoms are present, gently cover the eye with a clean, loose patch or cup to protect it from further irritation, and avoid wearing contact lenses until a doctor has examined the eye.
Preventing Foreign Objects in the Eye
A proactive approach to eye safety significantly reduces the chances of a hair or other debris entering the eye. Protective eyewear is highly recommended during activities that generate dust, flying debris, or small particles, such as gardening, woodworking, or using power tools. These specialized glasses or goggles create a physical barrier to shield the eye from unexpected hazards.
General hygiene also plays an important role in prevention, starting with the habit of avoiding touching the eyes with unwashed hands. For individuals with long hair, keeping it tied back or secured with a headband during physical activity or windy conditions prevents strands from being blown across the face and into the eye. These simple measures help maintain the integrity of the eye’s surface.