Author:

Louise Wood

I’m a New Zealand-based medical writer with experience in the clinical sector, working alongside doctors and scientists. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Optometry from the University of Auckland, and I have extensive experience in communication and patient care. I work as a Therapeutic Optometrist for City Eye Specialists.

How to Win a Staring Contest: The Truth About Blinking

Written By Louise Wood

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Holding a stare asserts dominance over your opponent! It requires discipline and courage. We only have to look at the animal kingdom to see this in action… a tiger stalking its prey. Blinking is a natural reflex. Your body does it automatically with no thinking required. And it’s essential in maintaining eye health. We’re breaking all things blinking down in this guide — and as a bonus, we’ll let you in on the secret of how to win a staring contest!

Can Mascara Damage Your Eyes? (And More Makeup & Cosmetics Issues)

Written By Louise Wood

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When you put on makeup and apply facial cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen, have you ever thought about the effects the cosmetics can have on your eyes?

Using cosmetics such as these around your eyes can result in unpleasant consequences including allergy, infection, injury, and vision loss. You need to consider the ingredients in the product and its use-by date. Let’s examine some of the risks and tips for avoiding them.

Photic Sneeze Reflex: Why Sunlight Makes You Sneeze

Written By Louise Wood

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In his Book of Problems, Aristotle asked, “Why is it that one sneezes more after one has looked at the sun?” It’s known as the photic sneeze reflex!

The phenomenon largely remains a mystery. The scientific name for a photic sneeze reflex is Autosomal-dominant Compelling Helio-Ophthalmic Outburst syndrome. Quite a mouthful that is rather aptly shortened to ACHOO syndrome!

What Does It Mean to be Color Blind?

Written By Louise Wood

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What does it mean to be color blind? It’s a question many people ask. “Color blind” doesn’t necessarily mean you only see shades of gray. In fact, it is extremely rare to be truly color blind (that is, you see only black and white).

For this reason, “color vision deficiency” (CVD) is a more accurate term. To have CVC means colors are visible but in different shades and intensities than normal.

It’s estimated that around 300 million people worldwide suffer from CVD (approximately 8% of men and 0.5% of women). If you’re ready to learn more, our guide will provide the answer to what does it mean to be color blind and many more questions about this condition!

Is Systemic Medication Affecting Your Eyes?

Written By Louise Wood

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Your daily medication can be life-saving, or at the very least, life-changing. It specifically targets the condition you have to maintain your health and wellbeing.

Unfortunately, systemic medication often triggers annoying complications, including affecting your vision.