UV rays (UVA and UVB) can damage your eyes and increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis. The most effective protection is wearing a a pair of sunglasses with 100% UV protection, limiting sun exposure during peak hours, and using protective eyewear and sunscreen.
Quick sun safety tips
- Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection
- Choose polarised lenses or Transitions®
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen
- Limit sun exposure between 11am–3pm
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective eyewear
- Stay hydrated with plenty of water
- Avoid sunbeds and artificial UV radiation
What is Sun Awareness Week?
Sun Awareness Week is a UK campaign that highlights the risks of UV exposure and encourages better sun protection habits. It focuses on reducing the risk of skin cancer, protecting eye health, and raising awareness of how UV radiation can cause long-term damage.
This makes it the perfect time to review your eye care routine and ensure you’re properly protected from the sun’s rays.
Why UV eye protection is essential for eye health
UV radiation from the sun’s rays includes UVA and UVB rays, both of which can harm your eyes over time.
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the eye and are linked to cataracts and macular degeneration
- UVB rays affect the surface of the eye and can cause photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea)
Repeated UV exposure can lead to long-term eye conditions, while short-term exposure can cause:
- Eye strain
- Dry eyes
- Irritation and light sensitivity
This is why consistent eye protection is essential during the summer months — and year-round, even on cloudy days. To understand more, watch our Ask the Optician video below, which explores the importance of UV protection.
Top tips for UV eye protection this summer
1. Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection
The most effective way to protect your eyes is to wear sun tints that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Look for:
- Full UV protection (labelled UV400)
- Wraparound styles to reduce side exposure
- Larger frames or thicker temples for better coverage
A high-quality pair of sunglasses reduces UV damage, glare, and eye strain during outdoor activities.
Polarised sun tints are especially useful around water, sand, or roads, where reflected light increases UV exposure.
2. Choose lenses that adapt to your lifestyle
If you move between indoor and outdoor environments, consider:
- Transitions® lenses that darken in response to UV light
- Anti-reflective coatings to reduce glare
- Built-in UV filters for everyday eye care
These options support consistent eye protection without needing to switch glasses.
3. Use sunscreen to protect the skin around your eyes
The skin around your eyes is highly sensitive to sunburn and skin cancer.
- Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Choose broad-spectrum formulas that block UVA and UVB rays
- Reapply every two hours
This reduces overall sun exposure and supports long-term eye health.
4. Limit exposure during peak UV hours
UV radiation is strongest between 11am and 3pm.
- Seek shade during peak hours
- Use umbrellas or covered areas
- Check the UV Index when planning outdoor activities
Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds.
5. Wear protective clothing and accessories
Clothing adds another layer of sun protection:
- A wide-brimmed hat helps shield your eyes and face
- Close-weave fabrics reduce UV penetration
- Combining hats with sunglasses improves overall protection
This reduces total exposure to harmful UV rays.
6. Keep your eyes hydrated
Heat, wind, and increased time outdoors can lead to dry eye.
- Use lubricating eye drops
- Drink plenty of water
- Take breaks from screen time before and after sun exposure
This is especially important for people who wear contact lenses, as dryness can increase discomfort.
7. Avoid artificial UV exposure
Sunbeds and tanning booths emit high levels of UV radiation.
- Avoid artificial tanning where possible
- Choose safer alternatives like spray tan
Reducing overall exposure lowers the risk of eye conditions, skin cancer, and long-term UV damage.
UV protection is important all year round
UV rays are present even in winter and on overcast days. Reflection from water, sand, and snow can increase exposure.
Making UV eye protection part of your daily routine helps protect your vision long-term.
When to see an optician or optometrist
Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining eye health.
Visit an optician or optometrist if you notice:
- Increased light sensitivity
- Persistent dry eyes
- Changes in vision
Regular eye exams can detect early signs of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.
Protect your eyes with confidence
Protecting your eyes doesn’t require major changes — just consistent habits. Wearing the right protective eyewear, limiting sun exposure, and supporting hydration all help reduce risk.
Explore sunglasses with 100% UV protection at Glasses Direct or try Transitions® lenses for everyday eye care.
FAQs: UV protection and eye care
Do I need sunglasses on cloudy days?
Yes. UV rays can pass through clouds, so wear sunglasses even when it’s overcast.
Can UV rays damage eyes in winter?
Yes. Reflection from snow and water increases UV exposure.
Are polarised lenses the same as UV protection?
No. Polarised lenses reduce glare, but you still need full UV eye protection.
Can contact lenses protect against UV rays?
Some contact lenses offer partial UV filtering, but you should still wear protective eyewear.
What is photokeratitis?
Photokeratitis is a temporary but painful condition caused by UV damage to the cornea, similar to sunburn.
