Protect Your Eyes from Summer Fun

We all are aware of UV protection on our skin however; there are UV-screening sunglasses and contacts which give protection for the eyes from aging and disease.

This notion comes from a national American Optometric Association survey. According to Dr. Jonathan Schorn, partner of Focused Eye Care in Lakeville, Minnesota, overexposure of ultraviolet rays advances the eyes aging process and raises the risk for serious diseases.

According to research small amounts of UV radiation over a span of numerous years raises the likelihood for developing cataracts, macular degeneration and eye cancer. Along with the damage which can be caused to the retina.

When eyes have too much exposure of UV radiation over a short time a sunburn referred to as photokeratitis can happen. Symptoms may include major sensitivity to light, abundant tearing and gritty feeling in the eye. This sunburn most of the time is only short term and rarely does it ever cause any permanent damage.

To provide proper protection for the eyes the following has been suggested:

Sunglasses and protective contact lenses should be:

Be able to block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation.

Be able to screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light.

Sunglasses should have a perfect color match, free of distortions or imperfections and be gray for proper color recognition.

Also, included is to use sunscreen around the eye area and wear a hat.

Do not forget to also protect infant and children's eyes as well.

There are natural sunscreens which can be purchased that not only work but are cost effective. Here are a few of the best 2011 sunscreens rated by the Environmental Working Group:

MexiTan and Tropical Sands

Purple Prairie SunStuff Natural Sunscreen

Jason Sunbrella's Mineral Sunblock

MelanSol Natural Sunscreen

To find out the rest of the list you can check out the Daily Green Sources:

Medical News Today

Daily Green