When we think about sun protection, most of us immediately reach for sunscreen to shield our skin. But what about our eyes? Just like our skin, our eyes are vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation — and too much exposure can have serious consequences for your vision and long-term eye health.

Why Is UV Light Harmful to the Eyes?

UV radiation comes in three types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. The Earth’s atmosphere blocks most UVC and a portion of UVB, but both UVA and UVB rays still reach us — and they can cause damage to various parts of the eye, including the cornea, lens, and retina.

Over time, unprotected exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of:

• Cataracts
  A clouding of the lens that affects vision, often developing more quickly with prolonged sun exposure.
• Macular degeneration
  A leading cause of vision loss in older adults, linked in part to UV damage to the retina.
• Photokeratitis
  A painful condition (a sunburn of the eye) that causes redness, sensitivity to light, and temporary vision loss.
• Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)
  A growth on the white of the eye that can spread to the cornea and affect vision.
• Skin cancer around the eyes
  The delicate skin around the eyes is especially prone to UV-related skin damage.

UV Exposure Happens Year-Round

You might think this is only a concern on sunny summer days, but UV rays can affect your eyes even on cloudy days — and especially around reflective surfaces like water, snow, and sand. Winter sports lovers, beachgoers, and even drivers can be at risk without proper eye protection.

How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Radiation

1. Wear UV-protective sunglasses
   Choose sunglasses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles offer extra protection by limiting UV rays from entering the sides.
2. Look for polarized lenses
   While polarization doesn’t protect against UV by itself, it reduces glare — which improves comfort and clarity, especially when driving or near water.
3. Use a wide-brimmed hat
   Pair your sunglasses with a hat to further reduce UV exposure.
4. Consider photochromic lenses
   These are lenses that darken in sunlight and clear up indoors, giving you UV protection without needing to switch glasses.
5. Contact lens wearers
   Protecting your eyes has never been more convenient. With the latest innovations in contact lens technology, you can now enjoy built-in UV protection and blue light filtering — all while experiencing exceptional comfort and clarity throughout the day.
6. Don’t forget children’s eyes
   Kids are more susceptible to UV damage, and they often spend more time outdoors. Make sure they wear protective eyewear too!
7. Get regular eye exams
   Your Optometrist can monitor any UV-related changes to your eyes and recommend the best protective options to suit your lifestyle.

Visit Us for Expert Advice and Protection

At Whitby and Co Opticians, we’re here to help you see clearly and stay protected. We offer a range of high-quality sunglasses, prescription lenses with built-in UV protection, and professional guidance tailored to your needs. Ask us about the latest in contact lens technology and let us find the perfect solution tailored to your lifestyle.

Drop by or book an appointment to find the right protection for your eyes.