Sun Safety: Help Prevent Eye Damage

Published on July 17, 2024

Did you know children are more susceptible to retinal damage from UV rays? The lens inside a child's eye is clearer than an adult lens, enabling more UV to penetrate deeper into the eye.

By Arlington Parks and Recreation

Did you know children are more susceptible to retinal damage from UV rays? The lens inside a child's eye is clearer than an adult lens, enabling more UV to penetrate deeper into the eye.

Sun Exposure

Besides sunburn, too much exposure to UV Rays can cause eye damage such as:

  • Cataracts
  • Skin Cancer (around the eyes)
  • Sunburn to the cornea

There are two types of rays to be concerned about—ultraviolet A (UVA) rays and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.

  • UVA rays, also found in tanning salons, can cause premature aging of the skin and contribute to the development of skin cancer.
  • UVB rays are the burn-producing rays. Overexposure to UVB rays is thought to be the most common cause of skin cancer.

Fortunately, everyone can take steps to reduce exposure to the sun’s damaging rays.

Sunglasses

Wear sunglasses that offer the ability to block 99-100 of UVA and UVB light. The sun’s angle changes with the seasons. UV rays are strongest in the summer.

Wear Hats

 Wide brim hats that cover the entire face, especially the eyes, eyelids and the surrounding area.

Seek Shade

The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Also wear sunscreen on your face.

According to the American Red Cross, Use extra caution near water, snow and sand. Water, snow and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn and eye damage.

Taking steps to reduce exposure to the sun every day is the best defense against eye damage and the other negative effects of the sun.

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