Summer is almost here, and it’s time to enjoy longer days with more hours of sunlight! While the sun can be a source of joy and vitamin D, it’s important to remember that UV radiation can be harmful to your eyes. Did you know that you can even get sunburns on the surface of your eyes? This can be very painful. It is called photokeratitis. The good news is that there are ways to protect your eyes from UV radiation, and the best place to start is by investing in a good pair of sunglasses. In this blog post, we will explore why sunglasses matter, how they protect your eyes, and other ways you can minimize your UV exposure.
UV Rays Versus Our Eyes
UV radiation is invisible, and it penetrates the skin and eyes to cause damage. When exposed to UV radiation, the eyes are at risk of various eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis. The latter is a temporary painful condition that causes redness, tearing, and blurred vision. Over time, excessive UV exposure may contribute to more serious eye problems. This is why it’s crucial to protect your eyes from UV radiation, especially during peak sunlight hours.
The Damage From UV Rays Is Cumulative
The more time we spend in the sun without protection, the more damage our eyes incur. The effects of UV radiation are cumulative, which means they build up over time. This makes it much more important to be proactive when it comes to protecting our eyes. The good news is that it’s never too late to start wearing sunglasses and minimize your UV exposure.
The Protection We Get From Sunglasses
The first thing we recommend when choosing a pair of sunglasses is looking at how effectively they block UV radiation. Look for sunglasses that have a label that says they block 99-100% of both UVA and UVB radiation. When choosing frames, wrap-around styles or ones that sit close to your face are best because they block out more sunlight from all angles. Another option that is very effective is polarized lenses, although they are a little more expensive. These lenses reduce glare and help to enhance the clarity of your vision. They are ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, or skiing.
Other Ways to Minimize UV Exposure
Besides wearing sunglasses, there are other steps you can take to minimize your UV exposure. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can help provide additional shade for your face and eyes. Try to avoid being outside during peak sunlight hours- generally between 10 am and 4 pm. When working outside, particularly near reflective surfaces such as water, be extra cautious. You should always use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours.
Let’s Find Your Best Sun Protection Gear!
The bottom line is simple: protecting your eyes from the sun is crucial for your eye health in the long run. Investing in a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses is an effective way to start. A good pair of sunglasses will give you the necessary protection while still looking fashionable. Here at Lentz Eye Care, we have a great selection of designer frames and sunglasses. You can stop into any of our locations and we'll help find the right fit for you. Don’t forget that other accessories, like hats, are also great ways to boost your sun protection.
Wearing sunglasses and other sun protection gear can help prevent a wide range of eye problems in the future. Remember, the damaging effects of UV radiation are cumulative and can result in serious eye conditions. Cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis can all negatively impact your vision. Preventive measures such as wearing sunglasses while outdoors and avoiding peak sunlight hours can help protect your eyes. Investing in high-quality sunglasses with polarized lenses can go a long way towards protecting your eyes from harmful UV radiation. Let’s enjoy all the fun that summer has to offer while keeping our healthy. Stop into Lentz Eye Care today and check out our selection of UV protective eye wear.