8 Top Tips to Protect Your Eyes This Summer

As summer approaches, we eagerly anticipate longer days, outdoor activities, and sun-drenched vacations. However, increased exposure to sunlight and various environmental factors can pose significant risks to eye health.

By taking some preventative measures, you can protect your eyes from both immediate discomfort and long-term damage. This article will outline eight key strategies for keeping your eyes healthy this summer, including potential laser vision correction situations.

1. Shield your eyes from harmful UV rays

Solar radiation is omnipresent throughout the year, but it intensifies during the summer. This radiation includes ultraviolet (UV) light, which is invisible to the naked eye, but can have profound effects on health. 

Prolonged exposure to UV rays accelerates the aging of eye tissues and heightens the risk of macular degeneration, a major cause of vision loss. Excessive exposure can even lead to photokeratitis, a painful condition akin to sunburn of the eye. To protect your eyes, note the following:

Wear Quality Sunglasses

Opt for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, covering UVA, UVB, and UVC rays. Ensure they fit well to maximize protection. In addition to UV protection, choose sunglasses equipped with polarized lenses.

Polarization effectively reduces glare, enhancing visual clarity, especially in environments with reflective surfaces like water or sand.

Consider Larger, Wraparound Frames

For superior UV protection, larger sunglasses with wraparound frames are ideal. These designs offer extended coverage, protecting your eyes from the sides and significantly reducing sunlight exposure. 

Such features are especially beneficial in environments where light may reflect off surfaces like water or sand, potentially increasing UV exposure.

Use Hats

A hat with a wide brim can block up to 50% of UVB rays, providing additional protection for your eyes and eyelids. 

Avoid the Midday Sun

The sun’s rays are strongest during late morning and early afternoon. Whenever possible, stay indoors during these peak hours. 

2. Apply sunscreen safely

Sunscreen is essential for preventing skin cancer, but it also plays a crucial role in protecting the delicate skin around your eyes. Approximately 5% to 10% of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids. Protect the delicate skin around your eyes with appropriate sunscreen:

• Opt for mineral-based sunscreens, which often contain zinc. They are typically gentler on sensitive skin compared to chemical options and are less likely to cause irritation or sting your eyes when you perspire.
• Apply carefully to avoid direct contact with the eyes. If contact occurs, rinse immediately with saline solution or artificial tears. 

3. Maintain moisture with artificial tears

The summer’s dry heat and wind can worsen dry eye syndrome, a condition where the eye doesn’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort and blurred vision.

To manage dry eyes effectively, consider the following:

• Use preservative-free artificial tears to support a healthy tear film, which is crucial for maintaining clear vision and comfort.
• Operate a humidifier to add moisture to indoor environments, especially in air-conditioned rooms.
• Drink ample water to stay hydrated, supporting overall body and eye moisture levels.
• Avoid direct airflow from fans, air conditioners, or car vents on your face, which increases tear evaporation and intensifies dry eye symptoms.

4. Protect your eyes in water

Whether you’re an avid swimmer or simply enjoy spending time in pools, safeguarding your eyes is crucial. This not only helps you steer clear of irritations and infections like conjunctivitis, but it also ensures your overall eye health. 

Here, we present some effective methods to protect your eyes in aquatic settings:

• Wear swimming goggles: Choose goggles that fit snugly to protect your eyes from chlorine and other irritants in pool water, which can cause eye irritation.
• Use UV protection: If you’re swimming outdoors, opt for goggles that offer UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Rinse your eyes: After swimming, rinse your eyes with fresh water to wash away residual chlorine or salts, which can irritate your eyes if not removed.

5. Manage eye allergies

During the summer, blooming flowers increase pollen counts, heightening allergen exposure. This triggers histamine release, leading to various allergic reactions, including itchy eyes—a common discomfort in these months. To manage eye allergies effectively:

• Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.
• Explore treatment options such as specialized eye drops, over-the-counter allergy medications, or applying cold compresses to alleviate discomfort.

6. Boost your diet with eye-healthy nutrients

A nutritious diet supports eye health by providing essential vitamins and nutrients that promote proper cell function and reduce the risk of eye diseases. Here are some great options:

• Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, which are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, which are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.
• Include carrots and bell peppers; they are rich in beta-carotene and other essential vitamins.
• Almonds, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds provide vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Get your eye exams this summer

The summer months often bring a change in routine and a reminder of health maintenance, making it an ideal time to schedule an eye exam. Regular eye exams are crucial to detect and address any emerging eye health issues early.  

Early detection through these exams can greatly enhance the effectiveness of treatments, potentially preserving vision. In case of eye problems, there is always the opportunity to consider surgeries like LASIK eye surgery.

8. Consider laser vision correction

For those seeking a long-term solution to vision problems, laser vision correction might be an option worth exploring. Considering laser vision correction during the summer can be a practical choice for several reasons. 

Summer often includes more free time with holidays and less demanding schedules, making it a convenient period to schedule and recover from the procedure without rushing back to daily commitments. 

Moreover, the lifestyle benefits are significant. For example, engaging in summer activities like swimming, hiking, and travelling becomes easier without the need for corrective eyewear.

Consulting with an eye care professional for LASIK eye surgery can help determine if you are a suitable candidate for this life-changing procedure.  

Discover Advanced Laser Vision Correction at Clearview Vision Institute

Are you considering laser vision correction? Let Clearview Vision Institute be your guide to a clearer future. As a leader in LASIK and advanced laser eye surgery in Toronto, we are dedicated to providing you with transparent, honest, and personalized eye care. 

Our pioneering approach includes introducing Canada to some of the most innovative procedures like ReLEx® SMILE and Laser Blended Vision PRESBYOND. 

For personalized guidance and comprehensive eye care, contact Clearview Vision Institute by calling 1-647-493-6371 or contact us here.