An Optometrist’s Guide to Summer Eye Protection
Summer is a time to wash your worries away and enjoy a bit more flexibility in the days. But while the spirit of summer is a carefree one, it’s important that we don’t forget to properly care for our eyes.
Our eyes are at a higher risk for damage during the summer months. Stronger sun rays and more time spent in reflective water are just two reasons to take extra precautions before spending time in the sunshine. But did you also know that five to 10 percent of all skin cancers occur on the eyelid?
Luckily, you can take simple steps to protect your eyes, prevent skin cancer, and keep your vision healthy.
Here’s a Monocle eye care expert’s guide to protecting your eyes all summer long.
1. Wear sunglasses with complete ultraviolet protection.
With so many sunglasses options available in stores and online, it can be hard to determine which sunglasses are best for sunlight protection. But even on cloudy days (and throughout the winter!) sunglasses with complete ultraviolet protection are the best choice.
With so many sunglasses options available in stores and online, it can be hard to determine which sunglasses are best for sunlight protection. But even on cloudy days (and throughout the winter!) sunglasses with complete ultraviolet protection are the best choice.
Whether you’re driving from activity to activity, relaxing on your porch, or mowing your lawn, lenses with complete UV protection will block both UVA and UVB rays.
When purchasing sunglasses for yourself or your family, look at labels carefully. Not all brands that advertise UV protection actually protect from 100 percent of UV rays.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, you should choose sunglasses labeled UV400 or 100 percent UV protection to block the full spectrum of UVA and UVB rays.
2. Protect your eyes while swimming.
We all know sunscreen is a must for skin protection when spending time out in the sun. But don’t forget about protecting your and your kids’ eyes, too.
Did you know that 80 percent of UV damage occurs to the eyes before the age of 18? That’s why it’s critical to make sure your kids are wearing hats and sunglasses to keep the sun out of their eyes.
While swimming, opt for goggles with UV protection. And remind your kids to take their contact lenses out before jumping in the pool or another body of water.
Bacteria and microorganisms that live in the water can get trapped between your eye and the lens, leading to irritation and possible infection.
3. Keep your eyes moisturized.
The CDC estimates that 24.4 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. If you’re one of them, you know that seasonal allergies come with itchy, watery eyes.
And while it may seem counterintuitive, watery eyes need artificial tears to flush out the pollen, dust, and other allergens plaguing your eyes.
Another reason you might be experiencing watery eyes in the summer is simply because of the wind and heat. Use artificial tears to keep your eyes moisturized if you’re spending more time outdoors than usual.
No allergies but still experiencing watery eyes? Protect your eyes while applying sunscreen to your face and body. Keeping artificial tears on hand will also help flush any sunscreen that entered your eyes during application.
4. Stay on top of healthy eating and hydration.
So many wonderful fruits and vegetables are in season in the summer. Keep a stock of healthy foods washed and ready to eat in your fridge for easy access to healthy nutrients for your eyes.
Foods like red bell peppers and dark, leafy greens are great sources of Vitamins C and E while seeds and nuts are a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids—all of which help maintain the health of our eyes.
Hydration is also imperative for healthy eyes and a healthy body—especially in the summer heat. Make sure you and your family are drinking plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration, headaches, and blurry vision.
5. Keep up with your routine eye exams.
Preventive eye exams are key to maintaining the health of your eyes and the quality of your vision. And it’s never too late to start.
If you haven’t had an eye exam in the past year, the beginning of summer is a great time to get your first exam on the calendar. Schedule an appointment with Monocle eye care providers.
Monocle’s services include:
- Eye exams
- Contact lens fittings
- Lasik and cataract co-management
- Pediatric eye care
- Eye disease management
- Myopia control
The Monocle Premier Eye Care team offers years of experience and a true commitment to providing you and your family with excellent eye care and summer eye protection. Click here to schedule your eye exam.