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UV exposure refers to the amount of ultraviolet radiation your eyes and skin absorb over a period of time. This radiation comes from the sun and is categorized into UVA and UVB rays, both of which can cause damage. Unlike a sunburn on the skin, you often can’t feel UV exposure in your eyes until damage has already occurred.
read more about uv exposure ...Short-term, intense UV exposure can lead to photokeratitis (essentially a corneal sunburn), causing temporary pain, redness, and light sensitivity. Long-term, cumulative UV exposure is more serious, contributing to the development of cataracts (a clouding of the lens), pterygium (a growth on the eye's surface), and even increasing the risk of certain cancers around the eyelids.
While the sun is always a risk, UV exposure is dramatically amplified in certain environments. The risk is highest:
The best way to minimize exposure is a combination approach. Always wear sunglasses labeled as 100% UV-blocking (UV400) when outdoors, even on cloudy days. If you wear contacts, choose lenses that contain built-in UV blockers for an added layer of protection directly over the cornea. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat also helps.
At Lens.com, we know that minimizing UV exposure is crucial for life-long vision health. That's why we feature a wide selection of contact lenses that offer built-in UV protection, helping you fight cumulative damage every day. Check out our range of safe and effective UV-blocking contacts today.
Can you get too much UV exposure indoors?
Yes, but less than outdoors. Standard window glass blocks UVB, but UVA rays can still pass through, contributing to cumulative damage over time, especially if you spend long periods next to a large, sunny window.
What is the UV Index?
The UV Index is a scale created by the EPA that rates the strength of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation on any given day. A rating of 3 or higher means you should be using UV protection.
Do UV rays damage the retina?
While the cornea and lens absorb most of the damage, some UVA light can reach the retina over a lifetime, and it is believed to contribute to long-term issues like macular degeneration. This makes consistent protection a must.