Your eyes need protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays as much as your skin. Eye care specialists strongly recommend wearing UV-blocking sunglasses when heading outdoors, even during cloudy days. If you wear contact lenses, you might be wondering if they can also defend your eyes against UV rays. Continue reading to find out.
The sun emits a form of electromagnetic radiation called ultraviolet rays. These invisible rays have three categories which are UVA, UVB and UVC. Since the Earth’s atmosphere absorbs UVC rays, they don’t reach the people below. However, UVA and UVB rays can have damaging effects on different parts of your body, including your eyes. Prolonged exposure to these rays can increase the risk of cataracts, corneal damage, macular degeneration and other eye problems.
Contact lenses rest directly on the surface of your eyes, meaning they can provide some protection against UV rays. If you spend a significant time outdoors, look for contacts with high UV absorption capabilities. FDA Class 2 contact lenses can absorb at least 50% UVA and 95% UVB rays. On the other hand, FDA Class 1 contact lenses can absorb over 90% of UVA and 99% of UVB. You can consult your optometrist to determine which type of lenses are ideal for your needs.
Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is one of the best ways to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays. Invest in a pair that can block 100% of UV rays and consistently wear them when going outside. You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection. Another thing that will help is to avoid heading out during the sun’s peak hours.
At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we provide professional and personalized eye care services. Whether you need an eye exam or new contact lenses, we’re happy to help. We also specialize in pre- and post-operative care for LASIK eye surgery. Call us at (703) 660-9494 or fill out our online form to request an appointment. We assist patients in Alexandria, VA, and nearby areas.