Summer is all about fun in the sun — but that fun can quickly become a threat if you aren’t careful. Despite the pleasant feeling you may enjoy while soaking up sunbeams, exposure to UV rays can come with a laundry list of potential health consequences. Many people already know about the risk of skin cancer that the sun can incur, but did you know that your eyes are just as vulnerable as your skin? Indeed, if you venture into the sun without the right pair of polarized glasses, you may be putting yourself at risk of developing cataracts, blurred vision, and many other potential problems. Find out how you can prevent this and keep your eyes safe.
UV Light and the Dangers to Your Eyes
UV light is dangerous for an array of reasons. The same process responsible for sunburns — wherein UV rays damage skin cells — can also damage the cells in your eyes. When this happens, the cornea of your eyes can sustain a sunburn just like your skin would. In severe cases, this can lead to a condition called photokeratitis — or sometimes referred to as snow blindness — which can cause you to temporarily lose vision. If you’ve been in the sun for a prolonged period of time, and you notice that your eyes are starting to hurt, this may be the cause.
Although snow blindness is temporary, the damage inflicted by UV rays is not. UV damage is permanent because it alters the makeup of the DNA in your cells. This occurs when exposure triggers a reaction between thymine molecules, which are foundational material in your cells’ DNA. This reaction results in damage to the DNA itself, which in turn, can cause a variety of diseases and ailments. Luckily, you can shield your eyes from the threat of UV ray exposure by investing in polarized sunglasses for women.
Can Polarized Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes From UV Light?
Yes! Polarized lenses are one of the best weapons in the ongoing fight against UV ray exposure. In addition to filtering out general UV rays, polarized lenses feature a unique chemical coating that also works to filter out light beams that are reflected horizontally. This means that you can enjoy time outside without worrying about the damage that could be done by sunlight that reflects off of nearby surfaces. They also work to reduce the overall glare that you experience, which can be a problem if you’re surrounded by water, snow, or any other surface that can be reflective.
In addition to these benefits, many athletes and outdoorsmen prefer polarized lenses because of their ability to sharpen vision. Enjoy clearer vision and superior sun protection at the same time. Shielding your eyes from UV rays is essential to protecting their long-term health. Even exposure that occurs in small doses can eventually cause cumulative damage. If you value your vision, investing in a pair of polarized sunglasses is one of the best ways to prevent damage and ensure that your fun in the sun is safe.
