UV Light & Vision: Separating Misconceptions from Facts | Ultraviolet Awareness & Healthy Vision Month

Too much exposure from ultraviolet (UV) rays may not only damage your skin, but also your eyes. And there’s certainly no shortage of tips, suggestions, and warnings out there about sun exposure, sun damage, and sun protection for your skin and eyes.
 
But are you sure you’re getting the correct information? 
​

Accurate information helps you protect you and your family from damaging UV rays, while still enjoying your time outside. Keep reading to separate several common misconceptions from the facts about UV light and your vision.
​

Misconception 1: Only UVA Rays Are Damaging to Our Eyes

FACT: There are three types of UV rays from the sun, including UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. UVA rays are associated with skin damage, including wrinkles. They may also cause skin cancer and increase your risk of certain eye conditions. UVB rays are also damaging. According to the American Cancer Society, UVB rays give off even more energy than UVA rays and cause most skin cancers, including those on the eyelids. UVC rays do not penetrate the atmosphere. As a result, they are not linked to eye damage, skin cancer, or wrinkles.
​

Misconception 2: UV Danger to Our Eyes Occurs Mainly During the Summer

FACT: Damage from UV rays can occur at any time of the year. Damage from the sun’s rays is caused by radiation from UV light, which can happen anytime, regardless of the temperature. Even on the overcast winter days, UV radiation can penetrate through the clouds. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 80 percent of UV rays from the sun pass through on cloudy days. Snow can also reflect about 80 percent of UV rays, making burns from reflecting UV light a serious possibility.
​

Misconception 3: All Sunglasses Provide the Same Protection & Lens Color Matters

FACT: Not all sunglasses are created equal. Read the tags and labels for sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays (UVA and UVB). Manufacturers improve UV absorption by adding certain chemicals to the lens; the color of the lens does not affect UV protection. Also, don’t let the cost of sunglasses fool you. More expensive sunglasses don’t necessarily mean that they provide better protection than a pair of shades that costs less.
​

Misconception 4: We Are Completely Protected in the Shade from UV Rays

FACT: While spending time in the shade, instead of direct sunlight, provides some protection against UV rays, you still receive sun exposure. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, shade alone does not usually provide full UV protection. UVB rays can reach the skin and eyes indirectly. The rays may bounce back from reflective surfaces, such as concrete, sand, water, and snow. If you’re going to spend prolonged time outside, even if you’re in the shade, wear sunglasses.
​

Misconception 5: Higher SPF Sunscreens Protect Our Skin Longer

FACT: Although sunscreens with a high SPF provide more protection from UV rays than those with a lower SPF, they do not necessarily remain on the skin longer. Just because a sunscreen has a high SPF does not mean you can spend all day in the sun without reapplication. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends re-applying sunscreen every two hours, or as directed on the label, regardless of the SPF protection.
​

Misconception 6: Damage to Our Eyes from UV Rays Is Often Reversible

FACT: Eye damage from UV rays can include an increased risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, and skin cancer on the eyelids. It can also lead to corneal burns and pterygium, which are growths on the white of the eye. Unfortunately, not all eye damage from the sun is reversible. Certain conditions, such as macular degeneration, can lead to permanent vision loss. Protecting your eyes and preventing damage from from powerful UV rays is the best way to maintain and preserve your vision.
​

Misconception 7: Skin Cancer on Eyelids Is Rare

FACT: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the eyelids are a common place for certain skin cancers, like basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancer can develop in various areas around the eyes, including the upper and lower lids, as well as the eyebrow and lid margins. Wearing eye-safe sunscreen around your eyes, full-coverage, wrap-around sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat when you’re outside helps to decrease your risk.
​

Misconception 8: Tanning Beds Are Safer for Our Eyes Than Spending Time in the Sun

FACT: Tanning beds are just as damaging to the eyes as spending time outside in the sun. Tanning beds emit UV radiation and are not a safe alternative to sunbathing. Remember, exposure to UV rays can damage the eyes, whether it comes from the sun or a tanning bed. If you choose to tan, be sure to where proper tanning glasses with 100% UV protection.
 
Like many other areas of life, when it comes to UV rays and damage to your eyes, prevention is your best bet. Separating misconceptions from facts is one of the first steps in learning how to protect your eyes from UV damage.
 
As always, we are happy to answer any questions you have about protecting your eyes from UV damage. If you would like more information or want to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600.
 
We hope you found this information helpful. Next, we’ll cover Ocular Melanoma, as we continue with Ultraviolet Awareness & Healthy Vision Month.