UV Radiation and sunglasses

Everyone knows that you need to protect your skin from the sun because many ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a risk factor for developing skin cancers. But did you know that UV radiation has teh potential to harm your eyes as well? The three categories of invisible high energy UV rays are UVA, UVB, and UVC rays.

UVC radiation is primarily absorbed by the ozone layer in the Earth's atmosphere.

UVA radiation accounts for the highest proportion of UV radiation that we are exposed to and are able to penetrate clouds and glass. UVA is a risk factor in the development of skin cancers.

Although UVB radiation accounts for a minor proportion of the UV radiation that reaches us, it is the cause of sunburn. Exposure to UVB leads to damage of the superficial epidermis and is a primary risk factor in the development of skin cancer.

Overexposure to these types of radiation has been linked to serious eye problems such as certain types of cataracts and macular degeneration. Other associated eye problems include photokeratitis, photoconjuctivitis, pingueculae, pterygia, and other retinal damage. The best way to protect your eyes from the sun while outdoors is by wearing sunglasses. The sunglasses that you select should have lenses that block 99-100% of UV rays and absorb most High Energy Visible (HEV) rays. People have faces of different shapes and sizes, so not one size fits all. Sunglasses should protect your eyes from all angles; this may mean large lenses, a close fitting pair, or some that wrap around.

If you live near our practice in Logan Central be sure to visit our page on sunglasses. We carry a variety of sunglasses that will help protect your eyes and will assist you with finding lenses that will properly fit your face and protect your eyes. If you wear prescription glasses then we have you covered as well - ask about our prescription polarised sunglasses. Now you can see clearly and safely.