Now that the summertime is officially here it’s time to make sure you keep your eyes protected from the risks of UV exposure and other summertime dangers.
Here are some pointers on keeping safe in the sun:
Get sunglasses that block 100% of UV – and try to wear them every time you go outside. If your sunglasses don’t have 100% UV protection to guard your eyes from harmful UV damage, they may be causing more harm than benefit. Be aware that proper UV blockage doesn’t mean a higher price – a number of cheaper options provide full UV defense.
Wear shades that offer more coverage. When choosing shades, think big. Look for glasses with wraparound frames and wide lenses.
Wear a wide sun hat. While glasses are a great first step, a wide brimmed hat will give you the additional defense you need to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Wear sunglasses on overcast days. Even when the sun is hiding behind the clouds, UV can still reach your eyes and do damage. Don’t let a cloudy day deceive you.
Invest in a sturdy sunglasses case. Your sunglasses are a good friend and should be treated accordingly. It’s worthwhile to store them in a closed place to keep them free from scratches, breaks and dirt.
Keep hydrated. It’s important to keep your eyes hydrated. Consume at least 8 cups of water a day to prevent dehydrated eyes and skin.
Stay indoors during the heat of the day. Stay indoors as much as possible particularly in the late morning and afternoon when the power of the sun and UV in the atmosphere are at a peak.
Consider purchasing polarized lenses. Polarized lenses minimize the glare from reflective surfaces such as water. Perfect for a day at the beach or pool, they offer more comfortable vision during outdoor activities.
When participating in outdoor activities such as boating, sitting by a campfire or hiking, be sure to use proper eye protection to avoid injury.
Be careful with sunscreen. If applied too close to the eyes there is a chance it will enter the eye and cause discomfort.
