UV Rays and Proper Eye Protection
Summertime means more time spend outdoors and more sunshine. However, studies show exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and growths on the eye, including cancer, from UV rays. We want to remind everyone of the importance of protecting their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing proper protection and also protecting eyes from indoor UV light when using tanning beds.
Can UV rays damage the eye?
UV radiation, whether natural sunlight or indoor artificial rays, can damage the eye’s surface tissues as well as the cornea and lens. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the dangers UV light can cause. By wearing UV blocking sunglasses, you can enjoy the outdoors safely while lowering your risk for potentially blinding eye diseases. It is very important to start wearing proper eye protection at an early age to protect the eye from years of UV exposure.
Tips to Protect Eyes from UV Rays
- Don’t focus on color or darkness of sunglass lenses – select sunglasses that block UV rays.
- Check for 100% UV protection which includes both UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose wrap-around styles that go around to the temples so sun rays can’t enter from the sides.
- Don’t rely on contact lenses with UV protection – wear your sunglasses.
- Don’t be fooled by clouds – sun rays can pass through haze and thin clouds.
- Protect eyes during peak times – sunglasses should be worn whenever outside, especially in the early afternoon and at high altitudes where UV light is more intense.
- Never look directly at the sun which can lead to solar retinopathy – damage to the eye’s retina from solar radiation.
- Don’t forget the kids – everyone is at risk. Protect them with hats and sunglasses and try to keep them out of the sun between 10 am and 2 pm when the UV rays are strongest.
We Can Help
The Optical Boutique offers a wide range of stylish sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV radiation. Come by any time and one of our licensed opticians will be happy to help.
For more information visit:
aoa.org or preventblindness.org
Dr. Carlin is a highly experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist and Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology with more than five decades of experience in vision care and surgical innovation. A graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine, he completed his ophthalmology residency at the University of Michigan before serving in the United States Navy in Key West, Florida. In 1977, he founded CarlinVision and has since built a longstanding reputation for excellence in LASIK, cataract surgery, refractive procedures, and cosmetic eyelid surgery. Throughout his career, Dr. Carlin has completed more than 11,000 procedures and remains at the forefront of advanced laser and refractive technologies. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and an active member of multiple leading professional organizations, reflecting his enduring commitment to clinical excellence and patient care.