June 1, 2014

Sun Damage Prevention Tips

Protect your eyes from sun damage with these prevention tips from Matthew P. Rauen, M.D. Excessive exposure to sunlight may cause certain cancers and other conditions that can threaten your vision. Which means it's time to focus on what you can do to shield your eyes from sun damage.

Wear Sunglasses

• Look for those that block 99 percent or more of UVA and UVB radiation. Choose a wraparound style that filters as much visible light as possible.

Wear UV Blocking Contact Lenses

• Contact lenses that incorporate UV-blocking materials are effective in filtering out UV rays that stray past hats and sunglasses.

Wear a Hat

• Broad-brimmed hats are simple and effective in shading your eyes, as well as your skin, from solar radiation.

Minimize Sun Exposure

• By staying out of the sun when sunlight is most direct, particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., you can avoid high-risk UV exposure.

Use Sunscreen

• Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher to eyelids, face and skin about a half hour before you engage in outdoor activities.

Schedule an eye exam at a Wolfe Eye Clinic near you

• An annual eye exam takes a short amount of time and it allows your doctor to detect conditions that may be threatening your vision.