When you think about sun protection, your first thought might be to slather on the sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. But do you give the same consideration to your eyes? Just as your skin needs shielding from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation, so too do your eyes. UV protection and contact lenses should go hand-in-hand in your daily routine, safeguarding your vision from potential damage.
 

The Danger of UV Rays on the Eyes

The sun emits UV radiation in three primary forms: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is mostly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere and poses no significant threat, UVA and UVB can have profound impacts on your eye health.
 

Prolonged exposure to UVA and UVB rays can lead to conditions such as photokeratitis, which is akin to a sunburn of the eyes. This can cause temporary pain and vision issues. More serious consequences include an increased risk of cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens that can lead to blindness, and macular degeneration, which is damage to the retina and can also result in vision loss.
 

The delicate skin around your eyes, including the eyelids, is also highly susceptible to UV-induced skin cancers. Thus, while you are considering the health of your eyes in terms of sight, you must not neglect the surrounding skin, which requires just as much protection from the sun's rays.
 

Incorporating Sunglasses in Your Eye Care Routine

Sunglasses are not just a fashion statement; they serve a vital function in protecting your eyes from UV radiation. When you select a pair of sunglasses, it's not enough to just choose the ones that look good. You must ensure they provide adequate UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block out 99% to 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This information is typically indicated on the label or in the product description.
 

Larger frames or wrap-around styles offer better protection as they reduce the amount of sunlight that can enter from the sides. It's also important to remember that UV light can penetrate clouds, so wearing sunglasses on overcast days is just as important as on sunny days.
 

How Does UV Protection in Contact Lenses Work?

Contact lenses with UV protection are designed with materials that absorb UV radiation. This prevents the rays from passing through the lens and reaching the surface of the eye.
 

However, it's important to note that while these contact lenses provide an additional layer of defense, they do not protect the entire eye area. UV rays can still reach your eyes from the sides or around the contact lens. Therefore, contact lenses with UV protection should be used in conjunction with other forms of sun protection for your eyes, such as sunglasses and hats, rather than as a sole protective measure.
 

Conclusion

Incorporating UV protection and contact lenses into your eye care routine is a multifaceted approach that requires attention to detail and consistency. Remember that while contact lenses with UV protection offer a significant benefit, they should never replace sunglasses as they do not protect the entire eye area or the surrounding skin.
 

Consulting with your eye care professional is the best way to ensure you're making informed decisions about your eye sun safety. Together, you can create a comprehensive plan that includes UV-blocking contact lenses, sunglasses, and perhaps a stylish wide-brimmed hat to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
 

To learn more on UV protection with contact lenses or if you are looking for the perfect pair of sunglasses, visit Specs For Less at our offices in Staten Island, New York, and Keyport, New York. Please call (929) 305-1002, (929) 470-1515, (929) 407-3118, (332) 378-5266 or (732) 410-7401 to schedule an appointment today.