UV Protection: How to Keep Your Eyes - And Eyelids - Safe in the Sun This Summer

Summer arrives this week, and with it, we hope plenty of time in the sun! Sunshine is wonderful when it is enjoyed safely. We hear a lot about protecting our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, but what about our protecting eyes and eyelids? 

Our eyes and eyelids need protection from UV rays just as our skin does. Studies have shown that unprotected exposure to bright sunlight may increase risk of developing cataracts, as well as eye and eyelid growths, including cancer. 

The good news is that you can easily protect your eyes and eyelids by taking the following advice:

• Wear appropriate sunglasses. Look for sunglasses labeled “100% UV Protection. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recommends using “only glasses that block both UV-A and UV-B rays and that are labeled either UV400 or 100% UV protection.” When selecting sunglasses, look for styles that provide ample coverage to protect your eyes and eyelids and block as many UV rays as possible.
• Wear a hat. A broad-brimmed hat worn along with sunglasses will give your eyes and eyelids the most protection from the sun’s rays.
• Protect your eyes even on hazy or cloudy days. UV rays can pass through haze and clouds, so wear sunglasses and a hat even when the sun is not shining bright.
• Beware of intense UV conditions. Sunlight is strongest around mid-day and early afternoon. It is best to avoid being out in the sun during this time of day if possible. To learn the UV Index, or strength of UV rays, you can consult a weather app such The Weather Channel.
• Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun can cause solar retinopathy, or damage to the retina from solar radiation.

 
A word of caution: Beware of using sunscreen on your eyelids or those of your children. Sweat and water can cause sunscreen to seep or run into your eyes, which can cause irritation and burning.
 
Following these simple tips can keep your eyes and eyelids safe and those of your family all summer long.
 
We hope you have a terrific and safe summer filled with lots of outdoor activities. If you have any questions about protecting your or your children’s eyes from the sun, please do not hesitate to contact us.
 
For additional information on UV eye protection, please visit AAO.org and PreventBlindness.org’s Protect Your Eyes from the Sun and Choosing UV Protection.
 
Happy summer from all of us at Kadrmas Eye Care New England!