It's no secret that the sun's UV rays can cause damage to your eyes. You can develop macular degeneration or cataracts as a result. Even skin cancer can develop around your eyes. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, as much as 10 percent of all skin cancers start on the eyelids. Sunglasses are made with the purpose to protect you from UV rays.
Protection From Harmful UV Rays
The sun's UV rays can be damaging to your skin. It is very important to wear sunscreen to protect your skin. The UV rays can penetrate even cloudy skin and can cause skin cancer. You should consider wearing a hat, sunglasses, or some other protective clothing when you are out in the sun.
High intensity UVB light is particularly harmful for your eyes. Exposure to UV rays causes Photokeratitis, a type of sunburn in the cornea. Symptoms of this condition are usually not noticeable until hours or days after exposure. However, they can be painful, including excessive tearing and redness.
Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants or skirts provides the most protection from UV rays. Darker colors absorb more of the rays than light-colored fabrics. Fabric that is tightly woven and dry will also protect you better. Covering up won't block all the UV rays, however.
Preventing Cataracts
It is important to see an eye doctor regularly for a comprehensive eye examination, particularly if you're over 65. These exams are a great way to detect any issues with your vision, including the development of cataracts. Keeping yourself out of the sun's harmful rays will also help prevent cataracts. Most eye doctors recommend a yearly eye exam for adults, but you should schedule one every two years if you're over 65. During these exams, be sure to discuss your concerns and risk factors.
Wearing sunglasses helps reduce the amount of ultraviolet light that reaches your eyes. It is especially important to wear sunglasses during peak sunlight hours. During these times, you're most vulnerable to cataracts. Even when the sky is partly cloudy, sunlight can still cause damage to the eye's crystalline lens.
Cataracts are caused by overexposure to UV rays. UVB rays are particularly dangerous for the eyes, and are linked to the formation of cataracts. Make sure you wear sunglasses that block 99 percent or more of these harmful rays. Sunglasses with larger lenses and wrap-around frames can offer better protection.
Preventing Squinting
Wearing sunglasses is not only a fashion statement but it also improves your vision. The sun can cause serious damage to your eyes, which is why it's important to protect them from the sun. Not only that, but wearing sunglasses can prevent the formation of crow's feet and other wrinkles around your eyes. While sunglasses can prevent squinting, certain types are more effective than others.
The repeated movements of the eye muscles lead to wrinkles. When you squint constantly, you wear a groove into the skin and over time, this groove becomes a wrinkle. The more you squint, the deeper the wrinkles will become. It's normal to develop wrinkles at the side of your eye, but the more you squint, the more you will develop deep ones.
One of the main reasons people squint is the bright light. Wearing sunglasses can help prevent this, as they protect your eyes from UV light and prevent wrinkles. You should also get your eyes checked regularly and wear glasses or contacts if you're not seeing well. You can also try turning up the size of your screens, so you can see more clearly.
Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses After Surgery
When you're recovering from vision correction surgery, it's important to protect your eyes. Wearing sunglasses will help your eyes heal and protect them from the harsh ultraviolet rays of the sun. Sunglasses can also prevent eye headaches and migraines after the surgery. If you're not sure whether to wear sunglasses after surgery, consult your doctor.
Wearing sunglasses after surgery can help you reduce the risk of macular degeneration, cataracts, and pterygium. These conditions are caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays, and they can damage the macula, the center portion of the retina that allows you to see detail. Wearing sunglasses can help you protect your vision and keep it healthy for years to come.
If you can, buy an expensive sunglasses with UV 400 protection. This means they will filter out almost 100 percent of the sun's harmful rays. These shades also protect your eyes from airborne debris that can irritate them and damage the cornea.