Eye Sun Protection: Essential Tips

Sunlight’s UV rays are everywhere. Even mild, long-term exposure can harm your eyes.

How UV Hurts Eyes

· Acute issues: Can cause "photokeratitis"—pain, redness, tearing, or trouble opening your eyes.

· Chronic harm: Over time, it may lead to pinguecula, pterygium (abnormal blood vessel growth), lens aging, and speed up cataracts or age-related macular degeneration—damaging vision badly.

Sunglasses: Your First Defense

Pick sunglasses by label, not tint. Look for "UV400" or "100% UV protection"—they block all harmful UV (under 380nm) to protect eyes fully.

Lens colors for different needs:

· Gray/dark green: Keep colors natural—great for daily use.

· Brown: Boost contrast—best for bright sun driving.

· Amber/yellow/orange: Clear on cloudy days, not for strong light.

· Light red/vermilion: Good for water or snow (high glare).

If you’re nearsighted or have astigmatism, prescription sunglasses work too.

Protecting your eyes from UV reduces damage—keep them healthy in the sun.