Shield Your Eyes From Sun Damage

When we think about sun protection, sunscreen and hats are usually the first things that come to mind. However, our eyes are just as vulnerable to the sun's harmful rays as our skin. Protecting your eyes from sun damage is crucial for maintaining healthy vision and preventing long-term eye problems.

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts, eye cancer, macular degeneration, and even solar retinopathy—sunburn of the eye. Yes, that is a thing.

Over time, these conditions can lead to vision impairment and, in severe cases, blindness. Fortunately, protecting your eyes from UV damage is easy with a few simple precautions.

Here’s where to start.

Choose the Right Sunglasses

Not all sunglasses are created equal. When shopping for a pair, look for the following features:

• 100% UV Protection: Ensure your sunglasses block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This information is usually indicated on the label or tag.
• Wraparound Style: Sunglasses with large lenses or wraparound styles offer more coverage, protecting your eyes from all angles. This is especially important if you spend a lot of time on or near water, which reflects UV rays.

Moreover, because UV rays can pass through haze and clouds, wearing sunglasses is essential on cloudy days.

Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat

A wide-brimmed hat provides extra shade for your eyes and face, reducing direct UV exposure. Combine a hat with your sunglasses for optimal protection.

Limit Sun Exposure During Peak Hours

The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, limit your time outdoors during these hours. If you need to be outside, seek shade whenever you can and be sure to wear your sunglasses and a hat.

Consider UV-Blocking Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, ask your eye care professional about lenses with UV protection. While these lenses don't replace the need for sunglasses, they add an extra layer of defense against UV rays.

Don't Forget Little Peepers

Children's eyes are more susceptible to UV damage because their lenses are clearer, allowing more UV rays to reach the retina. Make sure kids wear sunglasses and hats when they’re outside. Teach them the importance of protecting their eyes from an early age.

Get Your Eyes Checked for Sun Damage

If you are concerned about damage to the eyes from prior sun exposure, reach out to your ophthalmologist or optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam.  They will screen you for cataracts, cancers, and macular degeneration. 

While regular eye exams can help detect any early signs of sun damage or other eye conditions, prevention is still the best strategy for preventing damage.

So, the next time you reach for the sunscreen before heading outside, consider it your cue to also grab your sunglasses and a hat.

Estela Ogiste, MD PhD, is an Ophthalmologist at Advanced Eyecare in Bennington and Manchester, Vermont and North Adams, Massachusetts.