Summer is in full swing, and with it comes sunshine, pool days, hiking adventures, and beach getaways. But while you’re reaching for sunscreen to protect your skin, don’t forget that your eyes need some love, too. Practicing smart summer eye care is essential—especially for Arizona Valley residents who see almost 4,000 hours of sunshine every year. That’s a lot of potentially harmful UV rays on your skin and eyes!
From harmful UV rays to poolside bacteria, summer can bring more risks to your eye health than you might think. The good news? A few smart habits can go a long way in keeping your vision clear, sharp, and protected all season long.
Here’s what you need to know about summer eye care and the simple steps you can take to protect your sight.
What Does the Sun Do to Your Eyes?
We all know sunlight boosts mood and provides essential vitamin D. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) and high-energy visible (HEV) radiation can cause severe damage to your eyes over time.
Types of UV Radiation That Affect Your Eyes
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UVA rays penetrate deep into the eye, reaching the lens and retina, potentially contributing to cataracts and macular degeneration.
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UVB rays can burn the eye’s surface and are linked to pterygium (also called surfer’s eye) and photokeratitis (aka snow or sand blindness).
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UVC rays are the most dangerous, but thankfully, the ozone layer blocks them.
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HEV (blue light) can cause long-term damage to the retina and increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration, especially in people with low antioxidant levels.
Over time, this exposure adds up, leading to conditions such as:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Pterygium
- Keratitis
- Eyelid cancers
- Conjunctival melanoma
Scary stuff, right? But don’t worry — prevention is easy and stylish.
Essential Summer Eye Care: How to Protect Your Eyes in the Sun
Just like you wouldn’t step outside without sunscreen, protecting your eyes should be part of your daily routine. Here’s how to stay safe under the sun:
1. Wear Sunglasses (Yes, Every Time)
Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound styles are best — they protect your eyes from all angles and keep out dust, sand, and wind. Skip blue-tinted lenses, which can emit UV light rather than block it.
2. Throw on a Hat
A wide-brimmed hat can block up to 50% of UV rays. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect both your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
3. Check Your Meds
Certain medications (like antibiotics, diuretics, and birth control pills) increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Ask your doctor if any of your prescriptions affect sun safety.
4. Avoid Peak UV Hours
UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. in Arizona. If you’re heading outdoors during this window, protect your eyes.
5. Mind the Water
Pools, lakes, and oceans can expose your eyes to chlorine, bacteria, and debris. Always remove contact lenses before swimming and rinse your eyes with clean water afterward.
6. Protect Your Kids
Children’s eyes are more sensitive to UV radiation than adults’. Start them early with kid-sized sunglasses and hats, and encourage shaded playtime.
Arizona’s Summer Sun: Beautiful But Powerful
The stakes are even higher if you live in sunny Arizona, where we get nearly 4,000 hours of sunshine a year. The dry air, reflective desert landscapes, and high elevation magnify UV exposure. That’s why summer eye care isn’t just a suggestion; here, it’s essential.
A 2024 Vision Council report found that nearly 7 in 10 American adults didn’t know UV exposure can cause serious vision problems. At Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, we’re working to close that gap by helping you take proactive steps toward long-term eye health.
Watch for Warning Signs
Even a few hours of unprotected sun exposure can result in painful symptoms. If you notice any of the following, contact your eye doctor:
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Light sensitivity
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Blurry vision
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Eye pain or redness
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Gritty sensation
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Sudden changes in vision
Conditions like photokeratitis, keratitis, and eyelid cancer are treatable, but early care is crucial.
Stay Cool. Stay Protected.
Summer is all about fun in the sun don’t leave your eyes behind. With a few simple habits, you can keep your vision safe, style on point, and eyes healthy for years to come.
Do you have questions about your eye health? Our doctors at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center are here to help. Schedule your summer eye exam today, and enjoy the season with confidence.