This month we draw our attention to the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) rays and how we can protect ourselves now and in the future! It’s important to protect your eyes and skin from the side effects of UV rays all year long, but during the summer months, the sun’s UV rays are even more dangerous.
There are several risks associated with exposure to UV radiation, two common ones being skin injuries — sunburns after short-term exposure and skin cancer after long-term exposure — and eye injuries. It’s also important to speak to your doctor about UV exposure to check if you’re on any medication that could cause your eyes or skin to be more sensitive to UV rays.
Like UVA and UVB rays, UVC radiation (prominent in tanning beds) causes sunburns as well as eye injuries. While injuries or burns caused by UVC rays aren’t typically as serious as UVA and UVB exposure, there is still a risk of damage to the skin and eyes. It is best to avoid exposure from tanning beds and UVC lamps. If tanning beds or UVC lamps are used, be sure to wear protective eye covering and limit your exposure.
Eye injury from UVC rays can cause painful swelling of the cornea. The consequences of too much UVC eye exposure can include tearing, light sensitivity, blurred vision, redness, and the feeling of having sand in the eyes. This can happen even after short-term exposure to UVC rays.
To protect yourself from the damaging effects of UV rays, try out these tips:
- Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.
- Wear clothes that cover your arms and legs.
- Wear a wide-brim hat to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
- Wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or higher for both UVA and UVB protection.
- Avoid indoor tanning.
It’s still possible to have fun in the sun and be outdoors. Just be sure to practice appropriate sun protection for your skin and eyes — not just during UV Safety Awareness Month, but all year long!
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