Blinking is one of the most automatic things your body does — and one of the most important for your eye health. But have you ever wondered how many times you actually blink in a day, and what happens when you don't blink enough?

The Science Behind Blinking

The average person blinks 15–20 times per minute, which translates to roughly 10,000–14,000 blinks per day. Each blink lasts about 150–400 milliseconds — so fast that you barely notice it.

But blinking isn't just reflexive. It serves critical functions:

• Lubrication — Each blink spreads a fresh layer of tear film across the cornea, keeping the eye moist and preventing dry eye.
• Protection — Blinking is the eye's first defense against debris, dust, and bright light.
• Nourishment — Tear film delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, which has no blood supply.
• Waste removal — Blinking sweeps away cellular debris and allergens from the ocular surface.

Why Are You Blinking Less Than You Should?

Screens are the modern enemy of blinking. Studies show that people blink up to 66% less often when staring at a computer, phone, or tablet. This is the primary driver of digital eye strain — also called computer vision syndrome.

Signs you're not blinking enough:

• Dry, gritty, or burning eyes after screen time
• Blurred vision that clears when you blink
• Red or irritated eyes by afternoon
• Difficulty focusing after extended reading

Tips to Blink More Consciously

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, and blink slowly 20 times.
• Use preservative-free artificial tears for added moisture.
• Lower your monitor so your eyes are slightly downward — this reduces corneal exposure area.
• Turn up screen humidity or use a humidifier in dry offices.

What Blinking Has to Do with LASIK

After LASIK, some patients temporarily experience reduced blink reflex sensitivity. This is normal and typically resolves within weeks. Our team provides detailed post-op care instructions to manage any dryness during healing. If dry eye is a concern for you, contact Restivo Laser Vision — we evaluate every patient's tear film before recommending LASIK.