3 Tips for a Healthy UV Safety Month
July is a wonderful month. Not only does it include Independence Day, but it’s also UV Safety Month! UV rays may be invisible, but they are still damaging. Too much sun exposure can cause a number of problems—from eye cancer and sunburned eyes to growths on or near the eye.
If you’ve had vision-improving surgery, like LASIK or cataract removal, protect your investment! UV Safety Month is the perfect time to commit to practicing better eye health habits. By protecting your eyes all summer long, you’ll be able to (safely) see the day, so you can seize the day.
1. Not wearing sunglasses is potentially dangerous (unless you’re inside)!
Though sometimes it may seem unnecessary, we recommend that you wear sunglasses anytime you go outside—especially during a sunny, summer day. We also recommend that you never look directly at the sun (even for a millisecond). Not only is it extremely painful, but UV rays can burn a hole in the retina. Because of this, it’s important to wear sunglasses every time you head outside. Even if you aren’t staring at the sun, a glimpse of the sun or its UV rays in reflections off of water or glass can still cause damage.
If you have recently had eye surgery, eye protection is especially important to ensure a comfortable and speedy recovery. You can cause damage to your eyes by needing protection and not having it available. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
2. Wear the right sunglasses!
When choosing your sunglasses, make sure that you look for sunglasses with “UV400” or “100% UV protection” on the label. Keep in mind that cloudy weather can still result in strong UV ray exposure, so wear sunglasses even if it is overcast.
Pro tip: To see if the sun is still shining through the clouds, put one hand about five inches over the other. If there is a shadow, the sunlight is still strong and you should definitely be wearing eye protection.
3. Wear hats (with brims!)
Hats with brims protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays, too. They can be an alternative to sunglasses in a pinch, but we recommend wearing both for maximum protection. And, of course, do not forget sunscreen!
Enjoy your summer
UV rays can be dangerous, but their harmful effects can be avoided with the proper techniques outlined above. We hope you are having a great summer with healthy, clear vision. By following these tips, you can protect your eyes, prevent future problems, and enjoy your summer safely.
If you have any further questions about your eyes or vision, contact us here at the Columbus Laser and Cataract Center at 614-939-1600!