UV (Ultraviolet Light) Safety Awareness and Contact Lenses

As the heat of the summer approaches so does the amount of time we spend outdoors exposing ourselves to harmful UV (ultraviolet light) that has been show to increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and even cancerous growths on the eye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology, through its EyeSmart™ campaign, is trying to increase awareness and is trying to emphasis the importance of wearing sun glasses to help protect your eyes against harmful UV light, even if you wear contact lenses.

Another even more dangerous source of UV light is the indoor artificial type commonly found in tanning beds. If you are among the many thousands who use tanning beds please take extra precautions to protect yourselves because the level of UV can be up to 100 times stronger than natural sunlight. So make sure you wear proper eye protection while using the beds and again contact lenses will not be sufficient.

"UV radiation, whether from natural sunlight or indoor artificial rays, can damage the eye's surface tissues as well as the cornea and lens," said Michael Kutryb, MD, opthamologist in Edgewater, Florida and clinical correspondent for the Academy. "Unfortunately, many people are anaware of the dangers UV light can pose. By wearing UV blocking sunglasses, you can enjoy the summer safely while lowering your risk for potentially blinding eye diseases and tumors." It is important to start wearing proper eye protection at an early age to prtect the eyes from years of ultraviolet exposure.

Here are some tips from the American Academy of Ophthalmology that can help you protect your eyes this summer:

  • Wear sunglasses labeled “100% UV protection": Use only glasses that block both UV-A and UV-B rays and that are labeled either UV400 or 100% UV protection.
  • Choose wraparound styles so that the sun's rays can't enter from the side.
  • If you wear UV-blocking contact lenses, you'll still need sunglasses.
  • Wear a hat along with your sunglasses; broad-brimmed hats are best.
  • Remember the kids: It’s best to keep children out of direct sunlight during the middle of the day. Make sure they wear sunglasses and hats whenever they are in the sun.
  • Know that clouds don’t block UV light: The sun’s rays can pass through haze and clouds. Sun damage to the eyes can occur any time of year, not just in summer.
  • Be extra careful in UV-intense conditions: Sunlight is strongest mid-day to early afternoon, at higher altitudes, and when reflected off of water, ice or snow.

Acuvue Oasys has one of highest UV blocking standards set for contact lenses blocking over 96% of UVA rays and 99% of UVB rays. But even with this rating it is still recommended that you wear high quality UV blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for maximum UV protection for the eyes. For the best prices on all your popular contact lenses visit our contact lenses section and save your money!

Remember UV light affects us year round so even in the winter if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors you still need to protect your eyes. Enjoy the summer sun but don’t forget to protect your eyes this summer!

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