Intro paragraph:
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you’ve probably heard about polarized sunglasses—but what makes them different from regular sunglasses? Polarized lenses offer unique advantages for comfort, vision clarity, and eye protection. Here’s everything you need to know about their benefits and why they’re worth considering.

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How Polarized Sunglasses Work

Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks horizontal light waves responsible for glare. This glare often comes from reflective surfaces such as water, snow, windows, and roads. By reducing this intense light, polarized sunglasses help you see more clearly and comfortably.

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1. They Reduce Glare Significantly

Glare can be both distracting and dangerous—especially when driving, walking near water, or participating in outdoor sports.

With polarized sunglasses, you get:

• Less eye strain

• Better visibility in bright conditions

• Safer driving in sunlit or wet environments

• More comfortable vision during outdoor activities

This is one of the main reasons polarized lenses are preferred by drivers, boaters, and athletes.

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2. They Improve Visual Clarity and Contrast

Polarized lenses allow you to see details more sharply by reducing scattered light.

Benefits include:

• Clearer outlines and shapes

• Enhanced contrast

• Brighter, more natural colors

• Reduced hazy or washed-out appearance

This makes polarized sunglasses perfect for activities where accurate vision is important, like fishing, hiking, or skiing.

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3. They Reduce Eye Fatigue

Continuous exposure to bright light and glare forces your eyes to work harder.

Polarized sunglasses help by:

• Minimizing squinting

• Reducing strain on the eye muscles

• Providing a more relaxed, comfortable viewing experience

If your eyes often feel tired after being outdoors, polarized lenses can make a noticeable difference.

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4. They Offer Excellent Sun Protection

Most polarized sunglasses also include 100% UVA and UVB protection, which shields your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. UV exposure over time can lead to:

• Cataracts

• Macular degeneration

• Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)

• Long-term damage to the retina

Polarized lenses combine comfort with crucial eye safety.

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5. Ideal for Water and Outdoor Sports

Because polarized lenses reduce reflections, they’re especially beneficial around reflective surfaces.

Great for:

• Fishing (you can see below the water surface)

• Boating

• Beach days

• Skiing

• Cycling

• Running

• Driving

Anyone who spends time near water or on the road will instantly notice the difference.

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6. More Natural and Comfortable Colors

Without glare, colors appear richer and more true to life. Everything looks crisp, balanced, and easier on the eyes—making your outdoor experience more enjoyable.

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7. They Enhance Safety

Whether you’re driving or engaging in sports, glare can temporarily blind you. Polarized sunglasses cut through this intense brightness, improving reaction time and overall safety.

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Are There Any Downsides?

While polarized sunglasses have many advantages, some situations may not be ideal for them:

• They can make digital screens (phones, car dashboards, ATMs) harder to read

• Some specialized snow lenses or pilots avoid them because of screen visibility issues

For everyday outdoor use, though, polarized sunglasses are one of the best choices you can make.

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Conclusion

Polarized sunglasses offer more than just style—they provide powerful protection against glare, enhance vision clarity, reduce eye strain, and improve overall comfort. Whether you’re driving, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the outdoors, polarized lenses help you see the world more clearly and safely.

Investing in a good pair can make every sunny day easier on your eyes.

Keep Your Eyes Healthy During the Sunny Season

Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and spending time at the beach. However, the season also exposes your eyes to several potential risks such as UV radiation, dry air, and chlorine exposure.

Understanding these dangers and taking preventive measures can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable all summer long.

3 Common Eye Dangers During Summer

1. Harmful UV Radiation

Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage the eyes over time.

Prolonged exposure may increase the risk of:

• Cataracts

• Macular degeneration

• Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)

UV damage can occur even on cloudy days, making eye protection important whenever you are outdoors.

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2. Chlorine and Water Irritation

Swimming pools contain chlorine and other chemicals designed to kill bacteria. However, these chemicals can also irritate the eyes.

Common symptoms include:

• Redness

• Burning sensation

• Blurred vision

• Dryness

Natural bodies of water such as lakes and oceans may also contain microorganisms that can cause eye infections.

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3. Dry Eyes from Heat and Wind

Hot weather, air conditioning, and outdoor wind can cause tears to evaporate more quickly.

This may lead to:

• Dry eyes

• Irritation

• Blurry vision

• Eye fatigue

People who wear contact lenses may be especially sensitive to dry conditions.

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9 Ways to Protect Your Eyes in the Summer

1. Wear Sunglasses with 100% UV Protection

Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes from harmful radiation.

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2. Use a Wide-Brimmed Hat

A hat can reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your eyes and provide extra protection from UV exposure.

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3. Wear Swimming Goggles

Goggles protect your eyes from chlorine, bacteria, and other irritants found in pool or ocean water.

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4. Remove Contact Lenses Before Swimming

Swimming with contact lenses increases the risk of infection from microorganisms in the water.

Prescription goggles are a safer option.

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5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps maintain proper tear production and prevents dry eyes.

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6. Use Lubricating Eye Drops

Artificial tears can help relieve dryness caused by heat, wind, or prolonged outdoor exposure.

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7. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Dust, pollen, and allergens are more common during summer. Rubbing your eyes can worsen irritation.

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8. Take Breaks from Screens

Many people still spend long hours using digital devices during summer.

Following the 20-20-20 rule can reduce digital eye strain.

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9. Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam

Regular eye exams help detect early signs of eye disease and ensure your eyes remain healthy.

An eye care professional can also recommend UV-protective sunglasses or specialized lenses.

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Protect Your Eyes All Summer Long

Summer activities should be fun and relaxing, but it is important to protect your eyes from environmental risks.

By wearing sunglasses, staying hydrated, protecting your eyes in water, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can help maintain clear and healthy vision throughout the summer season.

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FAQ

Why is UV protection important for your eyes?

UV radiation from the sun can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions over time.

Can chlorine damage your eyes?

Chlorine can irritate the eyes by disrupting the natural tear film that protects the eye surface.

Are sunglasses necessary even on cloudy days?

Yes. UV rays can still penetrate clouds and damage the eyes, so sunglasses with UV protection should be worn whenever you are outdoors.

How can I prevent dry eyes during summer?

Staying hydrated, using lubricating eye drops, and protecting your eyes from wind and sun can help reduce dry eye symptoms.

Essential Eye Care Tips for Sunny Days

Summer brings sunshine, outdoor activities, and longer days—but it can also expose your eyes to harmful UV rays, dryness, and irritation.

Taking a few simple precautions can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable during the warmer months.

Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection

One of the best ways to protect your eyes in summer is by wearing high-quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

UV radiation from the sun can increase the risk of:

• Cataracts

• Macular degeneration

• Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)

Choose sunglasses that:

• Block 100% of UVA and UVB rays

• Fit comfortably and cover your eyes well

• Have polarized lenses for reduced glare

Wraparound sunglasses can provide even better protection.

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Wear a Hat for Extra Protection

A wide-brimmed hat can help block additional sunlight from reaching your eyes.

When combined with sunglasses, hats can reduce UV exposure significantly.

This is especially helpful during:

• Beach activities

• Outdoor sports

• Hiking or walking

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Stay Hydrated

Hot weather can cause dry and irritated eyes.

Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep your eyes properly hydrated and supports tear production.

If you experience dryness, artificial tears recommended by your eye doctor may also help.

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Protect Your Eyes While Swimming

Swimming pools, lakes, and oceans can expose your eyes to bacteria, chlorine, and other irritants.

To protect your eyes:

• Wear swimming goggles

• Remove contact lenses before swimming

• Rinse your eyes with clean water if irritation occurs

Water exposure can increase the risk of eye infections, especially for contact lens wearers.

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Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

Outdoor activities can expose your eyes to dust, pollen, and allergens.

Rubbing your eyes may worsen irritation and increase the risk of infection.

Instead:

• Use artificial tears to rinse the eyes

• Wash your hands frequently

• Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce exposure to allergens

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Limit Screen Time and Take Breaks

Many people spend summer working remotely or using digital devices.

Extended screen time can cause digital eye strain, leading to symptoms such as:

• Blurred vision

• Headaches

• Dry eyes

Follow the 20-20-20 rule:

Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

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Schedule a Summer Eye Exam

Regular eye exams are an important part of protecting your vision.

An eye doctor can:

• Check your eye health

• Update your glasses or contact lens prescription

• Recommend sunglasses or protective lenses

• Detect early signs of eye disease

Scheduling an eye exam before or during summer helps ensure your eyes stay healthy all season.

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Enjoy Summer While Protecting Your Vision

With the right habits, you can enjoy summer activities while keeping your eyes safe.

By wearing sunglasses, staying hydrated, protecting your eyes in water, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can maintain healthy vision throughout the summer months.

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FAQ

Why is eye protection important in summer?

Summer sunlight contains strong UV radiation that can damage the eyes and increase the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.

Do sunglasses really protect your eyes?

Yes. Sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can significantly reduce harmful sun exposure.

Can swimming damage your eyes?

Swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans may expose your eyes to chlorine, bacteria, and irritants, which can cause infections or irritation.

How can I prevent dry eyes during summer?

Staying hydrated, limiting screen time, and using lubricating eye drops can help reduce dry eye symptoms.

Intro paragraph:
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, but many people forget that their eyes need protection just as much as their skin. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can irritate your eyes and even lead to long-term damage. Here’s how to keep your vision safe while enjoying the bright summer days.

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Why Protecting Your Eyes from the Sun Is Essential

The sun emits UVA and UVB rays that can damage the delicate tissues in your eyes. Long-term exposure may contribute to:

• Photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye)

• Cataracts

• Macular degeneration

• Pterygium

• Dry, irritated eyes

Luckily, these issues are preventable with proper eye care.

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1. Choose Sunglasses with Full UV Protection

Not all sunglasses are created equal. When buying a pair, look for:

• 100% UVA & UVB protection

• Polarized lenses to reduce glare

• Wraparound frames for added coverage

• Larger lenses for better shielding

Avoid cheap sunglasses that lack UV protection—they can actually worsen UV exposure.

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2. Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat

A hat with a brim of at least 7 cm (3 inches) can block up to 50% more UV rays from reaching your eyes. Pairing a hat with sunglasses offers excellent protection.

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3. Limit Exposure During Peak UV Hours

UV radiation is strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM. If possible, avoid prolonged outdoor activities during these hours—or make sure your eyes are well protected.

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4. Keep Your Eyes Hydrated

Summer heat and wind can dry out your eyes.
To stay comfortable:

• Use lubricating eye drops

• Drink plenty of water

• Avoid looking directly at bright sunlight

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5. Consider UV-Protected Contact Lenses

Some modern contacts include built-in UV protection. They don’t replace sunglasses but offer an additional layer of safety.

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6. Be Extra Cautious Near Water and Sand

Water, sand, and even pavement reflect sunlight, increasing UV exposure. Always wear sunglasses at the beach or pool—even on cloudy days.

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7. Don’t Forget to Protect Children’s Eyes

Kids are more sensitive to UV rays. Make sure they wear:

• UV-protective sunglasses

• Hats

• Light summer clothing

Building healthy habits early helps prevent vision problems later in life.

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Conclusion

Your eyes are precious, and protecting them from the summer sun is easier than you might think. With the right sunglasses, a good hat, and smart habits, you can keep your vision healthy while enjoying the sunshine safely. Make eye care part of your summer routine and look forward to a season full of bright, beautiful days.

Extreme heat and exposure to the sun’s rays can pose serious risks to your eye health. Whether you’re spending time outdoors during a hot summer day, working near heat sources, or even enjoying a warm vacation, it’s essential to take steps to protect your eyes from heat-related damage. Here’s how you can safeguard your eyes and maintain healthy vision in hot conditions.

1. Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection

One of the most effective ways to protect your eyes from the heat and harmful UV rays is by wearing sunglasses.

• Choose Sunglasses with UV Protection: Ensure your sunglasses block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer on the eyelids.
• Consider Wraparound Styles: Sunglasses that wrap around your face provide extra protection by blocking sunlight from the sides, reducing overall exposure to harmful rays.

2. Stay Hydrated

Just as your body needs hydration, so do your eyes, especially in hot weather.

• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated helps maintain the moisture balance in your eyes, reducing the risk of dry eyes, which can be exacerbated by heat and dehydration.
• Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, especially in hot or windy conditions, use artificial tears to keep them lubricated and comfortable.

3. Wear a Hat or Cap

A hat with a brim, such as a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap, can provide additional protection for your eyes.

• Shield Your Eyes from Direct Sunlight: A hat helps block sunlight from directly hitting your eyes and eyelids, reducing the risk of UV damage and heat exposure.
• Reduce Glare: Hats can also reduce glare, making it easier to see clearly in bright conditions and reducing eye strain.

4. Use Safety Glasses Around Heat Sources

If you’re working near heat sources like ovens, furnaces, or during activities like welding, it’s crucial to wear safety glasses.

• Protect Against Heat and Debris: Safety glasses shield your eyes from intense heat and protect against flying debris or sparks that can cause eye injuries.
• Choose the Right Lenses: For high-heat environments, look for safety glasses with heat-resistant lenses that offer both impact protection and resistance to high temperatures.

5. Take Breaks in the Shade

When spending extended periods outdoors in the heat, give your eyes a break.

• Rest in the Shade: Take regular breaks in the shade to reduce direct exposure to heat and sunlight, which can strain and dry out your eyes.
• Cool Down Your Eyes: Consider using a cool, damp cloth over your closed eyes during breaks to refresh and soothe them.

6. Be Mindful of Contact Lens Use

Heat can exacerbate dryness and discomfort for contact lens wearers.

• Use Lubricating Eye Drops: If you wear contact lenses, make sure to carry lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable in hot conditions.
• Consider Switching to Glasses: On particularly hot or windy days, you might consider switching to glasses to give your eyes a break from contact lenses, which can be more irritating in dry or hot environments.

7. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes

When your eyes feel dry or irritated due to heat, it can be tempting to rub them, but this can do more harm than good.

• Use Eye Drops Instead: Instead of rubbing your eyes, which can lead to irritation or even infection, use lubricating eye drops to alleviate discomfort.
• Wash Your Hands: If you must touch your eyes, always wash your hands first to prevent transferring dirt or bacteria that can cause infections.

8. Protect Your Eyes from Hot Air and Wind

Hot, dry air or wind can cause your eyes to dry out quickly.

• Use Eye Protection: When exposed to hot winds, such as when riding a bike or in an open vehicle, wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from direct air exposure.
• Use a Humidifier: If you’re in a dry, air-conditioned environment, using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, reducing eye dryness.

Conclusion

Protecting your eyes from heat is essential for maintaining good eye health and comfort. By taking simple precautions like wearing UV-protective sunglasses, staying hydrated, and using eye protection in hot environments, you can safeguard your vision and enjoy your time outdoors or in high-heat settings. Remember, your eyes are delicate, and a little care can go a long way in preventing heat-related eye problems.

When it comes to sun protection, most people focus on shielding their skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, it’s equally crucial to pay attention to the well-being of our eyes. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV radiation can lead to serious eye conditions and even permanent damage. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of protecting your eyes from the sun and provide valuable insights into effective preventive measures. By prioritizing eye protection, you can safeguard your vision and enjoy a lifetime of healthy eyes.

Understanding Sun Exposure

1. UV Radiation: The sun emits invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation, consisting of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can damage the eyes and increase the risk of various eye conditions and diseases.
2. Ocular Damage: UV radiation can penetrate the eye’s structures, including the cornea, lens, and retina, leading to cumulative damage over time. This damage can manifest as cataracts, macular degeneration, pterygium, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea).

The Importance of Eye Protection

1. Preventing Cataracts: UV exposure is a significant risk factor for the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens that can impair vision and require surgical intervention.
2. Reducing Macular Degeneration Risk: Chronic exposure to UV radiation is associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
3. Minimizing Eye Surface Damage: UV radiation can cause damage to the delicate skin around the eyes, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer.

Sun Protection Strategies

1. Wear Sunglasses: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and provide adequate coverage for the eyes and surrounding skin. Look for sunglasses labeled as UV400 or offer UV protection.
2. Use Wide-brimmed Hats: Pair your sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat to provide additional shade and protection from overhead sunlight.
3. Seek Shade: Limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak UV hours (typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.), by seeking shade whenever possible.
4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can help maintain ocular moisture and reduce the risk of dry eye symptoms exacerbated by sun exposure.
5. Regular Eye Exams: Schedule routine comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor eye health, detect early signs of UV-related damage, and receive personalized recommendations for eye care and protection.

Conclusion

By prioritizing sun protection for your eyes, you can mitigate the risk of UV-related eye damage and preserve your vision for a lifetime of optimal clarity and comfort. Embrace the light responsibly, and take proactive steps to safeguard your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Remember, protecting your eyes today ensures a brighter, clearer future tomorrow.

The next time you get ready to head to the beach or ski slopes without protective eye gear, take a moment to remember that eyes can get sunburned the same way skin can.

Severely sunburned eyes are caused by overexposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays, like those emitted by the sun. This condition is known as photokeratitis.

Photokeratitis, or ultraviolet keratitis, is an inflammation of the cornea, which is the clear covering of the front of the eye.

Protecting your eyes from UV rays is the only way to avoid getting them sunburned. Over time, too much sun exposure can cause specific types of eye diseases to occur. These include:

• • • • cataracts
      • age-related macular degeneration
      • eyelid cancer

Symptoms of sunburned eyes include:

• • • • Eye pain
      • A gritty feeling
      • Burning sensation
      • Red eyes
      • Swollen eyes and/or lids
      • Watery eyes
      • Blurred vision
      • Sensitivity to light
      • Glare and halos around lights
      • Headaches

These symptoms are temporary and should resolve on their own within 24 to 48 hours. If the symptoms last longer, see your eye doctor immediately.

While waiting for your eyes to recover you might want to:

• • • • Stay indoors and wear sunglasses to help with your increased light sensitivity.
      • Keep your eyes moist with preservative-free artificial tears.
      • Use OTC pain relievers to help with the pain and follow the recommended dosage.
      • DO NOT rub your eyes.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately and stop wearing them until your eyes have returned to normal. You may find that placing a cool, damp cloth over your closed eyes is soothing.

When to be careful

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that your eyes are protected by blinking, or from not staring directly into the sun. UV rays can be intense in several different environments.

By water

Sun can reflect off of water and sand, causing UV exposure. This can occur in the following locations:

• • • beach
    • lake
    • dock
    • boat
    • pool
    • anywhere the sun meets water

In the city

If you’re stuck in the city, don’t make the mistake of thinking you can go without the right gear.

Sunlight can also reflect off of buildings, cars, and concrete streets. And it doesn’t matter if it’s a bright sunny day or a hazy one. UV rays can affect your eyes and skin through cloud cover.

On the mountain

Sunlight can also reflect off of ice and snow. If you participate in sports such as mountain climbing, snowboarding, or skiing, you’re at risk for photokeratitis if you don’t protect your eyes. This type of photokeratitis is known as snow blindness.

In some instances, snow blindness can cause the corneal surface to freeze or become very dry. This condition is common in the North and South Poles, but can also happen at higher altitudes where the air is thin. Thinner air provides less protection from UV rays, making you more vulnerable than you may realize.

Artificial UV light

Other artificial sources of UV light include: arc welding machines and reptile basking bulbs — a type of UVB bulb used in pet stores and reptile enclosures.

You might think that tanning beds are safe for your eyes, since they emit UVA instead of UVB rays, but this is not accurate. Tanning beds produce up to 100 times the amount of UV rays that the sun does, and can be very dangerous for eyes. If you use tanning beds, it is imperative that you protect your eyes during use.

How to protect your eyes

Not all sunglasses are created equal. To ensure that your eyes get the protection they need, make sure your eyeglasses block or absorb 99 to 100 percent of UV rays. Wearing a brimmed hat can also help shield your eyes from sun exposure. When you’re skiing or enjoying other snow sports, wear sunglasses or goggles that provide this same level of protection. Wearing a helmet can also help.

Never use a tanning bed without wearing protective eye gear. Also try to keep your eyes closed as much as possible.

If you use welding equipment or similar types of machinery, wear a welding helmet designed to protect your eyes and face.

When to see a doctor

If the symptoms of sunburned eyes continue to plague you for more than a day or two, see your doctor. A specialist, such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist, can prescribe medication, if needed.

Remember, the longer your exposure to UV rays, the more likely you are to experience serious eye conditions over time, such as cataracts, or macular degeneration. If you have problems with your vision, see your doctor.

You should also see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

• • • seeing halos
    • blurred, fuzzy, dim, or distorted vision
    • shadowy areas in the middle field of vision
    • sensitivity to glare or light
    • problems with night vision

Eyelids are a particularly vulnerable area of the body. They can get skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma in this area can also spread to the eye itself.

See a dermatologist if you notice any of these symptoms on your eyelid:

• • • a discolored eyelid growth that appears red, black, or brown
    • breaks in the skin that do not go away, or changes in skin texture
    • swelling or thickening of skin
    • eyelash loss

The bottom line

Just like skin, your eyes are vulnerable to getting sunburned from too much exposure to UV rays. This condition, called photokeratitis, usually goes away on its own within a few days. In the short term, UV ray exposure and eye sunburn can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

In the long term, serious conditions, such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and eyelid cancer may result. It’s important to protect your eyes from the sun, and to take special care when you’re in high altitudes where air is thin, and UV rays are strong.

Sources:

Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?