Summer can be an obstacle course for your eyes. Chemicals in your swimming pool, UV rays from the sun, and grit can damage the delicate tissues in your eyes. If you want to have fun during the summer season, you need to take specific steps to protect your eyes. 

Are you planning to spend a lot of time outdoors this summer? If so, you will probably bring your sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. However, are you thinking about protecting your eyes? Many people do not know that the eyes can get a sunburn. If you are planning to participate in outdoor summer activities, you need to take the following steps to protect your eyes:

Wear UV Sunglasses When You Are Outdoors

Your skin is not the only part of your body that you need to protect from ultraviolet rays. Your eyes need protection too. It would be best to protect your eyes during the summer season since UV rays tend to be stronger and may damage your eyes. Increased sunlight during the season reflects on surfaces like water, sand, and even buildings.

Therefore, you should invest in high-quality UV sunglasses that offer maximum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. However, you need to understand that not all sunglasses are equal. A cheap pair of sunglasses you pick up at a thrift store or gas station may not provide complete protection. Go for sunglasses with full-spectrum coverage.

Wear a Hat

UV sunglasses are the first step to protecting your eyes in summer. However, they may not provide total protection. Some gaps on the sides of your sunglasses may still allow UV rays to reach your eyes. Therefore, you should wear a hat for added safety and minimize exposure to the summer rays. Go for a hat with a wide brim, such as a boater or bucket hat. 

Protect Your Eyes While Doing Outdoor Summer Activities

Wear eye protection while participating in outdoor activities such as woodwork or mowing the lawn during the summer season. There is always a risk of something getting into your eye and causing injury. Go for protective eyewear like goggles or glasses to shield your eyes and face from potential damage. 

Avoid Constantly Rubbing Your Eyes

One of the best ways to protect your eyes from infection and disease is to wash your hands and avoid touching your eyes. This holds even before the coronavirus pandemic. Wash your hands regularly to prevent contracting eye conditions like pink eye.

Remain Active

It would be best if you never took your sight for granted when exercising. Your eyes and the rest of your body are inexorably linked. After all, your eyes can act as windows to your overall health. Staying physically active can benefit your eyes. It can help minimize your risk of developing conditions that can contribute to reduced eye health. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

For more eye protection tips or to schedule an appointment, visit Clarity Vision at (919) 737-7200 to reach our office in Smithfield, North Carolina.