Ah, summertime. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping sweetly, and with the rising temperatures, you love spending time outdoors.
Just as we protect our skin with sunscreen before we brave the summer elements, it’s equally important to safeguard our eyes from the harmful ultraviolet rays that are part of sunlight.
Spending long hours in the sun without eye protection can damage your eyes by contributing to cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye, including some types of cancer.
A great pair of shades is key to protecting your eyes from sun damage and should be worn particularly under these circumstances:
- During the summer months when the level of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is at least three times higher than during the winter
- When enjoying the pool, lake, or beach, especially if you are in the water
- When participating in sports, particularly at high altitudes
- When using medications that can cause photosensitivity (sensitivity to light)
The ophthalmologists at ilumin recommend a pair of sunglasses that offers 100 percent UV absorption, is of the best optical quality, and is impact-resistant. Most contact lenses do not protect your eyes from UV light, and you should wear UV blocking sunglasses over them.
While a great pair of sunglasses will shield your eyes from most outdoor elements, they cannot protect your peepers from certain intense light sources. For example, tanning beds, snowfields, or staring directly at the sun can severely damage your eyes. Directing your gaze at any of these light sources without adequate protection can cause damage to the retina.
Come take a peek at the great selection of sunglasses in our optical salons, and be sure to protect your eyes while having fun in the sun.
