With summer here, you're probably spending a lot of time outdoors, which means more exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. While getting some sunshine every day is good for sleep cycles and overall well-being, without protection, excessive sun exposure can be just as harmful to your eyes as it is to your skin. Over time, UV exposure can contribute to ailments like cataracts and macular degeneration. To protect your vision and help ensure happy visits to the eye doctor, follow these basic tips every time you head outdoors. 

How to Protect Your Eyes From the Sun

1. Wear Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection is the best way to keep your eyes safe from the sun. Consider wearing some with larger frames or a wraparound style to provide the greatest level of protection. If you wear eyeglasses, talk to your eye doctor about getting prescription sunglasses or glasses with transitional lenses that offer adequate sun protection. 

2. Stay in the Shade

The sun is at its most intense during the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so try to stay in a shaded area when outdoors during this time. Wearing a hat with a brim at least 3 inches wide will shade your eyes when you can't find a good natural spot. 

3. Protect Yourself in All Seasons and Weather

UV exposure does not just happen in the summer. Sun protection for your eyes is important year-round, even when the sun doesn't feel as intense. 

UV rays can also penetrate clouds and cause eye damage even on overcast days at any time of the year. The sun's rays can reflect off water, snow, and ice, so wearing sunglasses is important any time you're outdoors. 

4. Use Sunscreen

Eye doctors recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15 on your face every day to help avoid skin cancer. As many as 10% of skin cancers are found on the delicate skin around the eyes and the eyelids, so using sunscreen helps reduce your risk. 

Avoid tanning beds, too, regardless of whether you use sunscreen. The UV exposure in these devices is higher than outdoors and poses serious risks to your eyes.

Whether you need help selecting the right sunglasses or are having vision problems, you can trust Comprehensive Eye Care in Washington, MO for comprehensive, high-quality eye care. Since 1993, eye doctors Michael Korenfeld, MD, ACOS, and Matthew Lazarus, OD, have provided care for patients throughout Franklin County, including access to clinical trials. Schedule an appointment or learn about participating in one of their trails by calling (636) 390-3999. Visit their website to learn more about their services.