With the sunny summer months quickly approaching, it is important to remember to give your eyes the UV protection they need. Just as sunscreen is necessary to protect your skin from sunburns and skin cancers, your eyes need to be protected as well.
Is UV Protection Really Necessary?
High levels of UV exposure has been associated with a number of eye diseases that can potentially cause vision loss such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and solar retinopathy. Luckily, there are effective (and fashionable) solutions that can prevent dangerous UV exposure. Quality sunglasses can block 100% of harmful UV rays, protecting your eyes as well as the sensitive skin around your eyes from damage. Not all sunglasses have 100% effectivity, but your optometrist and optician can help determine how much UV protection your glasses provide.
Don’t Skimp Out
Sunglasses can be also made with prescription lenses, providing you with crisp, clear vision. Contact lens wearers can use sunglasses without a prescription to provide the necessary protection. Even for those who wear contact lenses that block UV rays, sunglasses allow for more coverage and more thorough ocular protection. While it’s important to wear your glasses this summer during bright sunny days, don’t leave them behind if the clouds are out or if you anticipate being in the shade. UV exposure may be decreased under these conditions, but that does not eliminate potentially harmful UV rays from reaching your eyes and your skin. UV protection is equally important in the winter months, especially while snow is on the ground; snow can reflect sun rays and increase your exposure to UV radiation. Get ready to enjoy long sunny days this summer – but don’t forget to protect your eyes and skin from harmful UV rays!
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