Sun Protection
Hello fellow Boisians! The sun has been making a lot of appearances lately and personally, I have loved it. Spring is definitely in full bloom and summer is on its heels. Can’t wait...! ☀️
However, as much as we love the sun, it can be very harmful to our bodies if we don’t protect ourselves from its intense UV rays. This includes your eyes!
Always make sure that when you venture outside that you are wearing proper sunglasses. Sunglasses will not only help protect the delicate tissues of your eyeballs, but it will also help slow down the aging process of your eyes in the long run. Who doesn’t want that?
Certain eye conditions including corneal damage, cataracts and macular degeneration can all be made dramatically worse by UV exposure. Also, chronic exposure to UV light can age you much quicker. Think wrinkles and sun spots…no bueno! More seriously, overexposure to UV light is associated with different kinds of skin cancers, which can occur on the eyelids, eyeballs, and even inside the eye itself.
Ok…excellent, so we’ll all plan to wear sunglasses! But are all sunglasses created equally you ask? I’m so happy you asked. The answer is NO.
Here are some important tips when considering what kind of sunglasses to purchase and wear:
Always make sure the sunglasses you purchase are 100% UV blocking. Expensive sunglasses do not necessarily mean they are giving you better UV protection! Here’s an “only in America” fact for you: In the US, manufacturers can claim 100% UV protection for lenses that absorb UV rays with wavelengths up to 380nm. However, the range of UV rays extends up to 400nm… So be sure that your sunglasses can block ALL the UV rays up to 400nm.
The bigger the better! Bigger sunglasses will provide better coverage. Wrapped shapes will provide the best coverage.
Polarized sunglasses are great for water activities. Light can reflect strongly from surfaces like snow or water, causing strong glare. Polarized sunglasses will ultimately give you sharper, clearer vision which results in happier eyes. People who DON’T want polarized lenses: PILOTS!
Darker lenses will provide better comfort for those with sensitive eyes. But remember, just because the lenses are dark, does not mean that they offer good UV protection.
Finally, pick something you love to wear! Whether it’s a fun new fashion trend or they are just downright comfy, life is too short to not be our best selves or be uncomfortable! Go for it!!
Have fun this season and protect those eyes! They will love you for it. ❤️