Your eyes need SPF too. Learn why UV protection for your eyes matters in the summer — and all year long.
[5 min read]
In this article:
- Protecting your eyes from UV exposure is essential during the summer months—simple steps can help preserve your vision for the long term.
- Learn how ultraviolet (UV) light affects eye health, the role sunglasses and hats play in protection, and what to look for when choosing the right eyewear.
- Read more to learn from a PacMed expert how prevention starts with everyday habits that can reduce your risk of developing eye conditions linked to sun exposure.
With longer days and more time outdoors, summer is a great opportunity to enjoy the sunshine — but it’s also important to be mindful of how ultraviolet (UV) exposure affects your health, including your eyes. Just like your skin, your eyes are vulnerable to damage from UV light from the sun, and taking steps to protect them has lasting benefits. Michael Giese, O.D., an optometrist at Pacific Medical Centers, which is part of the Providence family of organizations, shares some guidance about protecting your eyes duing the sunny summer months and why making eye protection part of your daily routine is essential for life-long eye health.
Why UV protection matters for your eyes
UV exposure has a cumulative effect on eye health. While damage may not be immediate, repeated exposure over time increases the risk of several conditions.
“As an optometrist, I see how UV light can impact eye health,” says Dr. Giese. “Too much UV exposure over time has been linked to conditions like cataract, macular degeneration, and even growths on the eye like pterygia.”
Because UV rays can reach your eyes year-round, it’s important to make protection a daily habit, not just something reserved for sunny afternoons.
Simple steps that make a difference
Protecting your eyes doesn’t require complicated measures. Small, consistent actions can go a long way.
“Fortunately, protecting your eyes from the sun is easy,” Dr. Giese explains. “All you need is a hat and sunglasses.”
Hats, such as baseball caps, visors, or wide-brimmed styles, help block direct sunlight and reduce UV exposure. For the best protection, they should be paired with sunglasses.
What to look for in sunglasses
Not all sunglasses provide the same level of protection. Look for descriptions indicating 100% UVA and UVB protection or a UV400 label, which blocks the full UV spectrum.
These features ensure your eyes are properly protected, regardless of lens style or tint.
Understanding polarized lenses
Polarized lenses don’t increase UV protection, but they do reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, roads, and snow. This can improve visual clarity and comfort, especially while driving or spending extended time outdoors.
Considering prescription transition lenses
For individuals who wear glasses, transition (photochromic) lenses offer a convenient option for everyday UV protection. These lenses darken in sunlight and return to clear indoors, helping reduce exposure without switching eyewear.
While they do block UV rays, transition lenses may not fully replace sunglasses. They often don’t darken as effectively in cars due to UV-blocking windshields and may not provide the same glare reduction in very bright conditions. For that reason, Dr. Giese still recommends dedicated sunglasses—especially for driving or prolonged outdoor activity.
Protect your eyes this summer and beyond
Because UV damage builds over time, daily protection matters. Wearing a hat and proper eyewear can significantly reduce your risk of long-term eye conditions.
“That’s why protecting your eyes every day—even when it’s cloudy—is so important,” Dr. Giese emphasizes.
Simple steps today can help protect your vision for the future.
Find a PacMed physician or Advanced Practice Clinician (APC)
Like Providence Swedish, Pacific Medical Centers is part of the Providence family of organizations and offers a full range of primary and specialty care services. You can feel confident in your care team. We are committed to providing you with extraordinary care so you can achieve your best health. Visit our provider directory to find a PacMed physician or APC near you. You can also call PacMed's New Patient Information Line at 1.888.4PACMED (1.888.472.2633).
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