Summer is here, meaning more people are spending time outdoors. Appropriate sun protection is essential, whether you’re going to the park, heading to the beach or simply hanging out in your yard. Sunglasses are the first thing people think of for protecting their eyes against ultraviolet radiation. However, if you wear contact lenses, they can also keep your eyes safe from the sun.
Here’s how your contacts can protect your eyes from the sun.
What Can UV Rays Do to Your Eyes?
Healthy amounts of sunlight can benefit your overall well-being. It can encourage good vitamin D production, boost your mood and improve your productivity. Natural light can also help people sleep better by regulating their circadian rhythms.
Excessive amounts of ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm your eyes, just as they can hurt your skin. It wouldn’t take long before you start feeling the effects of too much UV radiation exposure. The lens, retina and cornea are the parts of your eyes more susceptible to sun-related damage. It’s why eye doctors recommend wearing UV-blocking glasses when going outdoors during the day, regardless of the weather.
How Can Contact Lenses Offer Sun Protection?
Contact lenses lay flatly on your eyes, which means they can shield UV rays from different directions. Keep in mind that all contacts are not made equal. Some products don’t offer as much UV protection as others. For instance, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Class 2 contacts can absorb at least 50% of UVA and 95% of UVB. These lenses are considered general-purpose lenses with UV absorption capabilities. If you want better defense from the sun, consider investing in FDA Class 1 contact lenses. They can absorb over 90% of UVA and 99% of UVB.
Whether you’re interested in ortho-k or getting new eyeglasses, Insight Vision Center Optometry is happy to assist you. Call us at (714) 486-3315, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving patients in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa, CA, and nearby areas.
