As you slather on sunscreen to protect your skin this summer, don't forget to protect your eyes. Long-time exposure in the sun could lead to future eye problems, according to ophthalmologists.
During July-- UV Safety Month--the American Academy of Ophthalmology and eye MDs across the country are taking the opportunity to deliver a strong message to adults to protect their eyes (and their children’s eyes) this summer by wearing sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats. They emphasize that these practical items are the best defense system for your eyes against sunlight and harmful UV rays. To be effective, both must be worn every time you're outside for prolonged periods of time, even when it's overcast.
"Recent studies have shown that prolonged exposure to the sun's invisible, high-energy ultraviolet rays without protection may cause eye conditions that can lead to eye sunburn or vision loss, such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration," said Lori Tindel, MD, WESTMED ophthalmologist with offices at 210 Westchester Avenue, White Plains. “During the summer months, the level of ultraviolet radiation is three times greater than in the winter.”
What type of sunglasses should you buy? "The most important thing is to purchase sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays," said Dr. Tindel. "The color of the lens or the price tag dangling from the frame is not an indicator of the amount of protection.” Many sunglasses with light-colored tints, such as green, amber, red, and gray offer the same UV protection as very dark lenses.
And as for the cost, many $10 sunglasses provide equal or greater protection than a $100 pair. With expensive sunglasses, you're paying for style, frame quality and options such as scratch-resistant coatings, and not necessarily protective UV ray blocking ability, according to FDA Consumer Health Information.
Children should also wear sunglasses that indicate the UV protection level. Toy sunglasses may not have any UV protection, so be sure to look for the UV protection label.
Then, what type of hat? A wide-brimmed hat that shields your face and shoulders will provide the most protection. Optimally, the brim will be at least 4 inches wide and made of tightly-woven, opaque fibers. Loosely woven straw hats provide very little sun protection. As a rule of thumb, do not wear a hat if you can see light shining through the fabric.
With your sunscreen on, sunglasses and a hat, you can call yourself prepared for summer fun.