While opting for contact lenses that claim to offer UV protection seems like a practical choice, understanding the extent of protection they provide is crucial. They’re not a fix-all solution to your eyes’ UV protection needs. Learn more about it today in this post from an expert eye exam doctor from Lumen Optometric
UV light, emanating from the sun, is classified into UVA and UVB rays. These rays can cause significant damage to the eyes over time. If you’re consistently exposed to UV rays, you might experience conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration later on. It goes to show that protecting one’s eyes from UV exposure, especially if you’re always outdoors, is a health priority.
While some contact lenses are marketed as having UV-blocking capabilities, it’s important to note that they only cover the cornea and not the entire eye. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, UV-blocking contact lenses should not be considered a stand-alone solution for sun protection. They can protect the part of the eye they cover, but they leave out the eyelids, conjunctiva and surrounding skin exposed to UV radiation. Clearly, contact lenses with UV protection are insufficient for comprehensive eye safety.
Combining UV-blocking contact lenses with other protective measures is advised. Sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection should be a non-negotiable accessory, regardless of whether you wear UV-blocking contacts or not. Moreover, adding a broad-brimmed hat to your outfit can shield your eyes and the skin around them from the sun’s harmful rays.
For avid contact lens users, it’s worth exploring options that offer added UV protection, such as lenses classified as FDA Class 1, which absorb more than 90% of UVA and 99% of UVB rays. However, it’s crucial to remember that these should complement, not replace, sunglasses and hats for full protection.
Residents seeking advice on UV protection for their eyes, including suitable contact lenses and sunglasses, can consult with reliable local optometry clinics like Lumen Optometric. Consult our eye and orthokeratology experts by calling (626) 921-0199 or visiting our website
Our eyes play a crucial role in our daily lives, yet it's easy to overlook…
Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is a condition that affects many, reducing visual acuity in one…
Contact lenses revolutionized the way individuals with vision impairments see the world, offering an alternative…
When it comes to correcting vision for reading and close tasks, many individuals face a…
Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a common visual condition that impairs one's ability to…
Your child's eyesight is crucial—not just for seeing the world clearly but also as an…