Why Are My Eyes Burning in September? Santa Ana Winds and Fall Dry Eye in San Marino

September may signal the start of fall, but San Marino can still experience warm temperatures, low humidity, and the beginning of Santa Ana wind season. For people with chronic dry eye, that combination can lead to noticeably more burning, grittiness, watering, and fluctuating vision.
 

At San Marino Optometry, we evaluate what is causing dry eye symptoms rather than simply recommending more artificial tears. Environmental conditions can worsen discomfort, but recurring symptoms may also point to an unstable tear film, meibomian gland dysfunction, or eyelid inflammation that needs more targeted care.
 

Why Santa Ana Winds Can Make Dry Eye Worse

Santa Ana winds bring dry air across Southern California, often with strong gusts and very low humidity. When moving air passes across the surface of your eyes, tears can evaporate more quickly.
 

A healthy tear film normally keeps the eyes lubricated between blinks. If that tear film is already unstable, windy September conditions can make irritation more noticeable.
 

Symptoms may become especially bothersome after walking outdoors, driving with the windows open, exercising outside, or spending time in areas exposed to direct airflow.
 

Signs Your Burning Eyes May Be Dry Eye

Dry eye does not always feel simply "dry." Symptoms can vary throughout the day and may include:
 

• Burning or stinging
• A gritty or sandy sensation
• Red or irritated eyes
• Watery eyes that still feel dry
• Blurry or fluctuating vision
• Light sensitivity
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

If symptoms repeatedly return despite using over-the-counter drops, it may be time for a more detailed dry eye evaluation.
 

Why Watery Eyes Can Still Be Dry

Excessive tearing can seem confusing when your eyes are burning from dryness.
 

When the ocular surface becomes irritated, the eyes may respond by producing reflex tears. These watery tears can run down your cheeks but may not contain the balanced mixture of moisture and oils needed for lasting lubrication.
 

The oily portion of the tear film comes largely from the meibomian glands along the eyelids. These oils help slow evaporation, which becomes particularly important when San Marino is experiencing dry, windy conditions.
 

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Evaporative Dry Eye

Meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD, occurs when the eyelid glands do not release healthy oils normally.
 

Blocked glands, thickened oils, inflammation, or debris along the eyelid margin can leave the tear film without an effective protective oil layer. Tears may then evaporate faster, leading to recurring burning and blurred vision.
 

Artificial tears may temporarily add moisture, but they do not always address the underlying gland problem.
 

How In-Office Dry Eye Treatments Can Help

At San Marino Optometry, treatment can be customized based on what we find during your dry eye evaluation.
 

For appropriate patients with MGD-related dry eye, OptiLight by Lumenis uses controlled intense pulsed light to address inflammation and support healthier meibomian gland function. Improving the oil layer can help stabilize the tear film and reduce excessive evaporation.
 

NuLids is another option that focuses on the eyelid margins. By removing debris and buildup, treatment can support better eyelid hygiene and healthier gland function.
 

Not every patient needs the same therapy, which is why identifying the cause comes first.
 

Protecting Your Eyes During September Winds

Wraparound sunglasses can help shield your eyes from direct wind and airborne debris. Indoors, avoid sitting with fans or air conditioning blowing toward your face.
 

Taking regular screen breaks and blinking fully can also help maintain the tear film, especially during long periods of computer or phone use. Preservative-free artificial tears may provide temporary relief when needed.
 

If September winds are leaving your eyes burning, gritty, watery, or blurry, schedule a dry eye consultation with San Marino Optometry at 2154 Huntington Drive, San Marino, CA 91108, or call (626) 415-3600 to find a personalized approach to lasting dry eye relief.