Posted by Dr. James E. Bureman
We’ve been told for years by dermatologists (and our parents) to wear sunscreen daily and limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. While sunscreen is vital to reducing negative effects of the sun, don’t neglect your eyes; they need protection as well. Help reduce your chances of developing skin cancer on the eyelids, eye wrinkles and crows feet, and possibly even cataracts and macular degeneration by paying attention to the following tips to sun-block your eyes this summer. Wearing sunglasses is advised year round – especially if it’s cloudy.
According to the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) American Eye-Q® survey, only one-third of Americans said ultra-violet (UV) protection is the most important factor they consider when purchasing sunglasses. Damage is caused by UV rays, not brightness itself. Wear sunglasses that block out at least 99% of both UV-A and UV-B radiation. No matter your age, wear a hat with a wide brim that blocks sunlight from overhead.
The World Health Organization estimates the up to 20% of cataracts are caused by overexposure to the sun, and therefore are completely avoidable. Don’t assume that because the tint of your sunglasses is dark, you’re going to receive greater protection. The lens tint should block 75% to 90% of light. Neutral gray is a good tint color to choose as it won’t alter color perception like green or amber tint. If you spend a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight, for instance if you work outdoors, wear wrap-around frames to block out the most UV light and glare. These kinds of glasses also will help you squint less from the glare of the sun, thereby decreasing the development of eye wrinkles and crows feet.
If you wear contact lenses, ask your optometrist about additional protection offered by some contact lenses that absorb UV radiation and also protect the eye from the radiation that comes from above or around the sides of sunglasses. Note that these lenses are not a substitution for wearing sunglasses.
Wear a facial moisturizer with SPF or sun block around the delicate eye area to reduce premature aging and development of eye wrinkles. Dermatologists strongly recommend daily use of a broad-spectrum (UV-A and UV-B) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater.
Put shades on your children!
For the greatest protection, put UV-protected sunglasses on your kids and always shade an infant’s eyes from direct exposure to the sun. Consult your optometrist or ophthalmologist for more information.