So, as passionate as we are about wearing sunscreen to protect your skin, we are also just as passionate about protecting eyes during the summer. Summertime means you’re outdoors more and you – and your eyes – are more readily exposed to the sun’s damaging UV rays. To minimize exposure and the potential for eye damage, read this blog.

What’s the Big Deal?

Is overexposure of the eyes to the sun that big of a deal? As a matter of fact, it is. When your eyes are regularly in the sun, you increase the risk of developing cataracts and growths on your eyes. You also increase the risk of developing cancer of the eye.

Additionally, too much sun can also cause a condition known as photokeratitis, which can lead to snow blindness (yes, it can happen in the summer!).

Too much sunlight or light from artificial rays (tanning beds) can damage the cornea and the lens of your eye, too.

Preventing Eye Damage

To prevent eye damage from UV rays, we suggest wearing eye protection whenever possible when in the sun. But, not just any pair of sunglasses. We recommend picking a pair that has a rating of 100 percent UV protection and also block UVA and UVB rays.

Here are some other tips to protect your eyes from the sun:

Get wraparound sunglasses. This way, the sun can’t enter from the side and damage your eyes.

Wear contacts? Ask Dr. Davis if there is a UV-blocking contact lens for you. But know that even if there is, you’re still going to need sunglasses.

Put on a hat. Go a step beyond and add a hat with your shades. We suggest broad-brimmed hats to shade your face and neck.

Don’t forget kids. Kids also need eye protection from the sun. Be sure they wear sunglasses and hats to cover their eyes and face when they are in direct sunlight.

Cloudy day? Don’t skip eye protection. Although a cloudy day may make you feel like you’re safe from the sun’s damaging rays, clouds don’t block out UV light. This means sun damage can still occur.

Time it right. If at all possible, avoid going outside when sunlight is the strongest: mid-day to early afternoon.

These simple tips can help you protect your eyes and vision, and also will allow you to feel safe in the sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen, too!

Find out more about how to protect your eyes and vision by calling us to schedule an appointment today. Call Dr. Davis in Colleyville, Texas, at 817-778-4444 now!