How to Protect Your Eyes from Harmful Ultraviolet Rays While on Spring Break

Woman Wearing Aviator Sunglasses

As Spring Break approaches, many look forward to beach days or hitting the slopes. However, it's crucial to remember that fun in the sun comes with exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Dr. Lauri Baldwin O.D. from Surfside Family Eye Care, shares essential tips to protect your eyes and prevent permanent damage.

Understanding the Risks:

Dr. Baldwin, the lead optometrist at Surfside Family Eye Care in Myrtle Beach, SC, explains that UV light exposure can increase the risk of different forms of cataracts and explains why it is very important to protect the eyes for other reasons.

Protecting Your Eyes:

“When planning your Spring Break activities, consider how much time you'll spend outdoors and pack the necessary eye protection,” says Dr. Baldwin. Reflective surfaces like water and snow can amplify UV exposure!

Key Recommendations:

Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essential. Not all sunglasses offer the same protection—choose wider lenses to cover the entire eye area. Our trained staff can assist in selecting the right outdoor eyewear for your needs.

Opt for Polarized Lenses: For those spending significant time outdoors or driving long distances, polarized lenses can improve visibility and clarity while providing 100% UV protection with six layers of protection.

Tint Color Matters: The tint color of sunglasses offers different visual benefits. “We can help you choose the best tint color based on your activities,” says Dr. Baldwin.

Indoor Eye Protection:

For those enjoying indoor activities like scrolling on social media, reading eBooks, or watching TV, it's essential to protect your eyes from digital strain. Extended screen time can disrupt blinking and cause dry eyes.

Dr. Baldwin recommends taking breaks every 20 minutes or using blue light-blocking lenses to reduce strain during prolonged screen time.

No matter what your Spring Break plans are, visit Surfside Family Eye Care to maintain your vision and protect your eyes.

See you soon!

Surfside Family Eye Care Team