How To Protect Sensitive Eyes In Summer

Everyone loves fun in the sun. We all know that too much sun causes skin damage. But did you know its ultraviolet (UV) rays can also damage the eyes?

Protecting sensitive eyes in summer is crucial to prevent discomfort, damage, and potential eye conditions caused by excessive sun exposure, UV rays, and other environmental factors.

Here are some tips to help protect your sensitive eyes during the summer months:

1. Wear sunglasses in bright sunlight

Sunglasses are not only capable of embellishing your overall style and outfit and making you look even more stylish, but they are also very beneficial to your eyes.

UV light more easily penetrates eye tissues than visible light, potentially increasing the risk of eye problems.

Wearing sunglasses is the simplest and safest way to protect your eyes from UV rays. Choose sunglasses that fit well and that block light from coming in around the lenses.

Opt for sunglasses with polarized lenses, as they can reduce glare and enhance visual clarity, reducing eye strain in bright conditions.

Look for sunglasses with larger lenses or wraparound styles to provide maximum coverage from the sun’s rays.

UV rays can seriously damage our eyesight, causing a variety of different conditions, such as cataracts, photokeratitis, and many others.

If you have your favorite pair of sunglasses that are a bit scratched, yet you’re not ready to throw them away, you can always just buy replacement lenses. On this website you can easily find beautiful lenses that will give your old sunglasses a new glow. 

2. Wear a hat in the heat and bright light

Hats protect your eyes and your head from overheating (sunstroke).

Choose a hat with a broad, dark brim that shades your eyes and reduces glare.

A hat with a wide brim can provide additional shade and protection from direct sunlight, complementing your sunglasses’ effectiveness.

3. Don’t rub irritated/dry eyes

When it’s hot outsides, our eyes can become dry.

Dry eyes occur when you lack tear quantity or quality. Dealing with the discomfort of dry eyes can be a daily battle, and the condition can affect your vision.

Irritated eyes can feel itchy. Other symptoms include:

• sore
• gritty
• red
• blurry
• sensitive to light
• more watery than normal

Here’s how you can prevent irritated/dry eyes:

• clean your eyelids every day
• apply warm compresses
• take breaks to rest your eyes when using a computer screen
• make sure your computer screen is just below eye level
• use a humidifier to stop the air from getting dry
• if you wear contact lenses, take them out and wear glasses to rest your eyes
• get better sleep
• drink enough water
• Eat some omega-3 fatty acids

For immediate relief, you can buy eye drops.  Over-the-counter artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes and reduce irritation. Use them as needed or as recommended by your eye care professional.

Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water helps maintain proper eye hydration and can reduce dry eye symptoms.

4. Avoid peak sun hours

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

If possible, limit your time outdoors during these hours or seek shade to reduce your eye’s exposure to harmful UV radiation.

5. Use protective eyewear during outdoor activities

If you’re engaged in sports or activities where there’s a risk of eye injury (e.g., swimming, gardening, or sports), wear protective eyewear such as goggles or safety glasses.

6. Get regular eye check-ups

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining eye health, especially if you have sensitive eyes. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can detect any issues early on and provide appropriate recommendations.

Summary

These tips are beneficial for everyone during the summer months.

Equipping oneself with proper eye protection, such as sunglasses with UV and polarized lenses, along with a wide-brimmed hat, provides a solid defense against the sun’s rays. Avoiding peak sun hours and staying hydrated help minimize eye strain and dryness.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the summer sun without compromising your eye health.

In the midst of the sun-drenched festivities, regular eye check-ups remain a fundamental pillar of eye care, ensuring any issues are addressed promptly and effectively. By incorporating these simple yet effective measures, individuals with sensitive eyes can confidently embrace the joys of summer, appreciating the season’s splendor without compromising their well-being.