Southern Utah gives us a lot of reasons to be outside: hiking the red rock, fishing a reservoir, skiing in winter, or just a long afternoon in the yard. Most of us remember sunscreen. Our eyes need sun protection too.
This guide explains how ultraviolet (UV) light can affect your eyes and how to choose sunglasses that actually protect them. The information comes from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO).
How UV light can affect your eyes
According to the AAO, UV radiation can damage the eye's surface tissues as well as the cornea and lens. Too much UV exposure raises your risk of:
- Cataracts, a clouding of the eye's natural lens. Learn more on our cataract surgery page.
- Growths on the eye, such as pinguecula and pterygium. These growths on the clear tissue over the white of the eye are believed to come from a mix of sunlight, wind and dust.
- Photokeratitis, which is like a sunburn on the eye.
- Eye cancers.
Cataracts and eye cancers can take years to develop, so protection matters at every age, including for babies and children.
"Know that clouds don't block UV light. The sun's rays can pass through haze and clouds."
AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
Why it matters here in Southern Utah
The AAO notes that sunlight is strongest from midday to early afternoon, and that it is stronger at higher altitudes and when it reflects off water, ice or snow. Many people who live in or visit our area spend time at elevation, on the water, or in the snow, so it pays to plan ahead.
Snow, sand and water
Snow blindness is a common form of photokeratitis caused by UV rays reflected off ice and snow. The AAO says it is particularly common in high mountains, where thinner air gives less protection from UV. Reflections from sand and water can cause photokeratitis too. Skiing, snowmobiling and mountain climbing are commonly linked to snow blindness.
Signs of a sunburned eye
Like a sunburn on your skin, photokeratitis usually isn't noticed until well after the damage happens. Symptoms can include pain, redness, blurriness, tearing, a gritty feeling, swelling, sensitivity to bright light, headache and seeing halos. Symptoms usually fade gradually in a day or two. If you wear contact lenses, the AAO advises removing them right away and getting out of the sun. If symptoms worry you, contact an eye doctor.
Never look directly at the sun
Looking straight at the sun, including during a solar eclipse, can damage the retina and cause a serious injury called solar retinopathy. Watching an eclipse safely requires a special viewing device. (AAO)
How to choose sunglasses that protect your eyes
The AAO's sunglasses tips focus on a few features that matter more than price or style.
Choose sunglasses labeled as blocking 99% to 100% of UV light, or blocking both UV-A and UV-B rays. A label that says "UV400" or "UV absorption up to 400nm" means the same thing as 100% UV protection.
Larger lenses give a bigger shield. Wraparound styles help keep UV rays from coming in around the sides of the frames.
A darker lens does not mean more UV protection. Lens color and darkness tell you nothing about how well a lens blocks UV light. Mirror finishes may reduce the amount of light reaching your eyes, but they won't fully protect you from UV either.
Polarized lenses cut glare bouncing off water, roads and other smooth surfaces, which can help with driving and fishing. Polarization by itself does not block UV, so check the label for UV protection, too.
The AAO suggests a simple test: look at a rectangular pattern, like floor tile. Hold the glasses at a comfortable distance, cover one eye, and slowly move the glasses side to side and up and down. If the lines stay straight, the lenses are fine. If they wiggle, try another pair. (AAO)
Quick sun-safe checklist
- Sunglasses labeled 100% UV, UV400, or blocking UV-A and UV-B
- A broad-brimmed hat along with your sunglasses
- Hats and sunglasses for kids and older family members
- Protection on cloudy days and in winter, not just in summer
- UV-blocking snow goggles for skiing and snowmobiling
- Skip tanning beds, which pose the same eye risks as outdoor UV
Wear glasses? Ask about your options
If you need a prescription to see clearly, sun protection should work with your vision, not against it. Our Cedar City Optical Center helps patients of all ages with the correct prescription and the correct frames.
We see patients from across Southern Utah, including Kanab, Beaver and the Escalante area.
Sources
- AAO: The Sun, UV Light and Your Eyes
- AAO: Top Sunglasses Tips
- AAO: Recommended Types of Sunglasses
- AAO: Photokeratitis (Snow Blindness)
- AAO: Pinguecula and Pterygium
This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for advice from your eye doctor.
Questions about your eyes and the sun?
Our team can check your eye health and talk through the right eyewear for your life outdoors.
