Eye Health: Sun Exposure And The Need For UV Eye Protection

News18

2 days ago

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Our eyes have no natural defense against ultraviolet rays. The damage is silent, cumulative, and often only evident once vision loss begins.
In the pursuit of protecting our health, we often reach for sunscreen, slip on full-sleeved clothing, and pop on a wide-brimmed hat before heading out into the sun. But what most people don't realize is that eye protection from UV rays is just as crucial as skin protection—and often far more neglected.
Understanding UV Radiation and Its Risks to Eye Health
Ultraviolet radiation, a component of sunlight, comes in three types: UV-C (100–280 nm), UV-B (280–315 nm), and UV-A (315–380 nm). Fortunately, UV-C rays are largely absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere. But UV-B and UV-A rays reach us daily and are responsible for most UV-related eye damage.
'As an ophthalmologist, I see the consequences of this every day. UV-B rays are high-energy and damage the cornea and lens of the eye. Long-term exposure is linked to cataracts, which cloud the lens and impair vision. UV-A rays penetrate deeper, affecting the retina and increasing the risk of macular degeneration, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in older adults. Even short-term unprotected exposure can lead to photokeratitis, a painful condition similar to sunburn but of the eye," says Dr. Sonia Bhalla, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Lawrence & Mayo.
What the Data Says: Know Your Sunwear
According to recent industry insights, sunglasses are classified based on the amount of visible light they allow through. This classification directly impacts their effectiveness in various environments:
Category 0 lenses allow 80–100% of visible light and are suitable only for fashion use or dim light conditions.
Category 1 lenses allow 43–80% and are suitable for overcast conditions.
Higher categories (not detailed in the shared data) are more appropriate for full sun or high-glare areas like beaches, roads, and mountains.
However, what matters more than lens darkness is UV filtration. Many consumers are unaware that darker lenses without UV filters can be dangerous. They cause the pupils to dilate in low light, which ironically lets in more harmful UV radiation. You should look for eyewear labeled '100% UV protection" or 'UV400", which blocks wavelengths up to 400 nm, covering both UV-A and UV-B rays.
Children and Older Adults at Higher Risk
Children's eyes are especially vulnerable. Their lenses are clearer and pupils wider, allowing more UV light to enter. Meanwhile, older adults already face natural degradation of ocular structures, and cumulative UV exposure can accelerate degenerative conditions.
Many people mistakenly believe UV damage is seasonal or limited to sunny days. This is a myth. UV rays penetrate clouds, and reflection from surfaces like water, snow, and even concrete can intensify exposure.
Doctor's Advice: Make Sunglasses a Daily Habit
Sunglasses should be worn daily—just like sunscreen—and not only in summer. Driving, walking, shopping, or even sitting by a window on a bright day exposes you to UV radiation. For those who wear prescription glasses, UV-protective lenses are available as part of corrective eyewear.
Eye protection isn't just about comfort or avoiding glare—it's about long-term eye health. Whether you're 9 or 90, the best time to start protecting your eyes is today. Just as we normalize wearing SPF, we must normalize wearing certified UV-protective eyewear, especially in a country like India, where sunlight is abundant almost year-round.
For healthy eyes, invest in high-quality lenses and have them fitted by a reputable optician.
Our eyes have no natural defense against ultraviolet rays. The damage is silent, cumulative, and often only evident once vision loss begins. Prevention, however, is simple and affordable.
Don't wait for symptoms. Don't compromise with style-only eyewear. Choose medically certified sunglasses and make UV eye protection a non-negotiable part of your daily health routine.
First Published:
June 12, 2025, 16:25 IST