4 Tips for Safely Spending Time in the Sun

The sun is out! Ensure the whole family enjoys it safely with these tips.

Winter is finally over, and spring is here, and that means it’s time for spring eye care. And with all the fun outdoor activities now available, it’s likely you and your kids have so much you want to do. While you’re enjoying all that the season has to offer, it’s important to remember that warm weather comes with a host of potential eye hazards. One of the biggest hazards is sun damage. When spending those warm, sunny days outdoors, it’s important to have sun protection, particularly for kids. Following these eye safety tips will keep your child’s eyes safe and healthy.

1. Stay cool with sunglasses.

Most people are aware that heavy exposure to UV light increases the risk of eye damage and serious diseases such as cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, and sun blindness. But did you know kids are even more susceptible to this damage than adults? Not surprisingly, they take in an estimated three times the yearly UV exposure of the average adult. Additionally, kids’ ocular lenses are more transparent than adults, exposing them to a greater degree of short wavelength light. This is why it’s imperative for kids to practice sun safety and get UV eye protection by wearing sunglasses. Make sure, when choosing sunglasses to always purchase lenses with 100% UVA protection and UVB protection for maximum safety. If your child wears glasses, be sure to get them fitted with a prescription pair of kids’ sunglasses.

Schedule an eye exam at your neighborhood Pearle Vision and find exactly what sun protection they need. If your kid resists the idea of sunglasses, they will be happy to know we carry the latest styles in kids’ sunglasses from quality brands like Ray-Ban, Ralph Lauren & Oakley. We’ll make sure your kid is looking good!

2. Block the sun by wearing a hat.

Similar to sunglasses, hats also offer great sun protection for your kid’s eyes. It’s important to remember that even when it’s cloudy, your eyes are still exposed to harmful UV light. Make sure your child is practicing sun safety by wearing both UV sunglasses and a hat to make sure he or she is getting the best sun protection possible.

3. Apply sunscreen.

Sun protection isn’t just for your eyes. It’s important to protect the skin around your eyes, specifically the eyelids, with sunscreen. Most people who apply sunscreen usually avoid the area around the eyes. This is a big mistake. Up to 10 percent of all skin cancers, excluding melanoma, are found on the eyelids. Eye doctors recommended using a moisturizer with SPF (15+) protection for sensitive skin areas like the eyelids, as lotions and moisturizers are absorbed by skin faster than typical sunscreen. The safest sunscreen for sensitive areas, such as the eyelids, is a fragrance-free sunscreen stick or lip balm with SPF.

4. Be wary of other hazards.

Sun safety isn’t the only thing to consider when it comes to spring eye care, as there are many potential dangers to watch out for. Irritants like sand, insect repellent, and chlorine can cause harm to the eyes. And if swimming is on the agenda, it is important to remember that UV rays reflect off water. Be sure to find kids’ goggles that offer UV protection as well. Additionally, popular summer gear—fishing poles, water guns, golf clubs—can also lead to injury, so be alert at all times. Finally, if you have a pollen eye allergy, you’re well aware of how it can affect you. Make sure you’re getting properly treated for these issues and avoid rubbing your eyes at all costs.

As nice weather leads to more time outside, make sure to keep you and your kids’ eyes protected with UV sunglasses and sunscreen. For more helpful tips and eye-opening eye health content, schedule your eye exam at Pearle Vision.

Sources:
1. http://www.wsj.com/articles/eye-protection-from-the-sun-especially-important-for-kids-1404750610
2. http://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries-children
3. http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/for-your-eyes/the-eyelids-highly-susceptible-to-skin-cancer
4. http://www.fryface.com/node/416

*Eye exams available by independent Doctors of Optometry at or next to Pearle Vision in most states. Doctors in some states are employed by Pearle Vision. (C) 2022 Pearle Vision, Inc. All rights reserved.