Using Sunglasses to Protect Your Eye Health
When summer arrives, many of us diligently apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to shield ourselves from harmful UV rays. But when winter rolls around, it’s easy to forget about sun protection just because the temperatures drop.
While winter may feel colder and darker, UV rays are just as present—and in some cases, even more dangerous. Here’s why you should prioritize sunglasses during the colder months to protect your eyes from snow, wind, and harmful ultraviolet radiation.
Why Sunglasses Are Essential in Winter
1. Snow Reflects UV Radiation
Snow acts as a natural mirror, reflecting up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays. By comparison, sand at the beach only reflects about 15%. This means that protecting your eyes during winter can be even more critical than during summer.
Prolonged exposure to these reflected UV rays can cause photokeratitis, or snow blindness, a painful sunburn on the eyes. Symptoms include redness, swelling, tearing, and temporary vision loss, often appearing 6 to 12 hours after exposure. Repeated cases of snow blindness can lead to permanent corneal damage.
To avoid this, wear high-quality sunglasses whenever you’re outdoors, especially if you’re skiing or snowboarding.
2. Combat Wind and Glare
Winter winds and bright glare can irritate and strain your eyes. For skiers, snowboarders, and other outdoor enthusiasts, high-speed winds can dry out your eyes, leading to discomfort and redness.
Meanwhile, glare from the snow forces your eyes to work harder to focus, causing strain and fatigue. Sunglasses or goggles with sidebars provide excellent protection by reducing wind exposure and minimizing glare.
3. The Impact of Altitude
If you’re at a high altitude, your exposure to UV rays increases significantly. The thinner air at higher elevations filters less UV radiation. For every 400 meters of altitude, UV exposure increases by about 3%.
For instance, in Jasper, Alberta (1,062 meters above sea level), UV radiation is 8% more intense than at sea level. Proper eye protection is essential for anyone enjoying winter activities in the mountains.
4. UV Rays on Overcast Days
Even when the sun is hidden behind clouds, UV rays can penetrate through. The thickest cloud cover doesn’t block harmful radiation, so wearing sunglasses on overcast days is just as important as when the sun is shining. Think of sunglasses as sunscreen for your eyes—providing year-round protection.
Prevention and Treatment of Snow Blindness
If you’ve experienced photokeratitis or suspect your eyes are sunburned, here are some tips to promote healing:
- Rest your eyes and avoid bright light. The cornea usually heals within 12 to 48 hours.
- Remove contact lenses to allow more moisture to reach your eyes.
- Apply a cool, damp cloth over your eyes for relief.
- Use lubricating eye drops to reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation and prolong the healing process.
The Benefits of Polarized Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses is your best defense against winter eye damage. Polarized lenses not only reduce glare but also filter out most harmful UV rays, offering essential protection in snowy conditions.
Look for sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection to ensure your eyes are fully shielded. If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, consult your optometrist about prescription sunglasses for clear vision and optimal eye protection.
Protect Your Eyes This Winter
Don’t let snow blindness or UV damage sideline your winter adventures. Make it a habit to grab your sunglasses whenever you head outdoors. Whether it’s a day on the slopes or a simple walk in the snow, your eyes will thank you for the extra care.
For personalized advice and high-quality prescription sunglasses, contact The Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. today. We’ll help you find the perfect pair to protect your eyes while maintaining your vision all season long.
