Get Your Sunglasses Out!
During the summer months there is usually a lot of emphasis on protecting your skin from Ultraviolet (UV) rays. But don’t forget about protecting your eyes too! Exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye including cancer.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible kind of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. UV rays can penetrate and change skin cells. The three types of UV rays are ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), and ultraviolet C (UVC).
Here are some tips to help keep your eyes safe:
- Don’t focus on colour or the darkness of the
sunglass lenses: Select sunglasses that block UV rays. Don’t be deceived by colour or cost. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on the price tag or how dark the sunglass lenses are. - Check for 100 percent UV protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 100 percent of UV-A rays and UV-B rays.
- Choose wrap-around styles: Ideally, your sunglasses should wrap all the way around to your temples, so the sun’s rays can’t enter from the side.
- Wear a hat: In addition to your sunglasses, wear a broad-brimmed hat to protect your eyes.
- Don’t be fooled by clouds: The sun’s rays can pass through haze and thin clouds. Sun damage to eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summertime.
- Protect your eyes during peak sun times: Sunglasses should be worn whenever outside, and it’s especially important to wear sunglasses in the early afternoon and at higher altitudes, where UV light is more intense.
- Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun at any time, including during an eclipse, can lead to solar retinopathy, damage to the eye’s retina from solar radiation.
- Don’t forget the kids: Everyone is at risk, including children, protect their eyes with hats and sunglasses.