Tips for protecting your eyes from the sun

You are probably aware of the increased health risks the sun can pose to your skin, but do you consciously protect your eyes from UV rays? Sunglasses should be more than just a fashion statement, and they are the “slide” in the slip, slop, slap, seek and slide mantra.

Combined with UV protective clothing, adequate sunscreen and shelter you will reduce the effect of the sun on your eyes, while helping to protect your body from potential skin cancers.

The Damage the Sun Can Do

The Ultraviolet rays (UV rays) can be detrimental to your health, with up to 95% of melanomas being attributed to this. When it comes to your eyes, these same UV rays can cause significant damage. Even though they can penetrate through the eyes and into the retina, UV rays are invisible and you could be causing harm without even realising.

The sun can cause both permanent and temporary problems including:

• Irritation to the eye area
• Photokeratitis which is painful and feels as though your eyes have been burnt
• Inflammation to the eye area
• Skin cancer around the eye area and eyelids
• Photophobia which causes light sensitivity
• Excessive blinking
• Cataracts which cause the eyesight to become cloudy
• Macular degeneration which may lead to blindness
• Wrinkles and premature ageing to the eye area

How to Protect Your Eyes

To protect your eyes from the sun, it is recommended you invest in a pair of sunglasses which meet our strict Australian standards. Wearing a hat with a broad rim can also help to reduce the glare, and decrease the radiation emitted by up to 50%. If you wear prescription glasses, speak to your optometrist about ensuring they offer UV protection. You can even purchase swimming goggles with UV protection. mFor young children and babies, wrap around sunglasses specifically designed for this purpose are your best choice.

What about the Labels?

Purchasing sunglasses can be confusing, and it can be hard enough choosing a style you like without looking at the label to determine which category they fall into. In Australia, a rating of 2 or higher will ensure they meet our safety standards. These types of lenses will absorb at least 95% of UV radiation and the bigger styles are better. Anything marked “fashion” will not provide you with enough protection, and are better left for night time fancy dress parties than daily sun use.

EPF means eye protection factor and a rating of 9 or 10 will give you excellent coverage.

The colour of the lense is irrelevant when it comes to sun protection, but polarized lenses can work to limit any glare. It is also important to note that some sunglasses are not suitable for driving, this will generally be stated on the label.

Who We Are

At My Skin Centre we are experienced in skin cancer detection and removal. We understand the importance of sun protection and can offer you advice and support, in a relaxed environment.

Please contact us today to book a skin check appointment with one of our friendly staff. We have clinics in 9 convenient locations in WA.