What is the 20-20-20 Rule to Prevent Eye Strain?

By Yashika Goel
16 Jul 2025, 12:30 IST

Longer periods of working and looking at our phones and digital devices cause digital eye strain. It also causes blurred vision, dry eyes, redness, watery eyes and headaches. Tap to read what is 20-20-20 rule of eye care!

What is the 20-20-20 rule?

The rule suggests that every 20 minutes, you have to take a 20-second break and look at an object that is 20 feet away from you.

How 20-20-20 rule help?

This simple technique helps give you relief from blue light emitted from your devices and also prevents fatigue and dry eyes.

What is the average blink percentage?

The human eye tends to blink 15-20 times per minute. But this number gets reduced due to constant focusing on the screen.

Maintain safe distance

Maintain a safe distance from your device to prevent eye strain. Adjust it at least to an arm’s length.

Splash cold water

Splash cold water on your eyes every hour to prevent dry eyes and eye fatigue. It also improves blood circulation and relaxes your eyes.

Palming technique

Rub both palms together to generate heat and place them on your eyes. This will help relax eye muscles from strain.

Take short breaks

Take short breaks and blink often to lubricate your eyes. It helps prevent dryness and irritation in your eyes.

Information credits

This information is taken from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These few tips will cure digital eye strain. However, it is always advisable to consult an eye specialist for personalised suggestions.