Although it has been a relatively cool summer in Mississauga sun protection is still necessary because damage can occur even if it’s windy or cloudy. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is made up of UVA and UVB rays. Up to 80% of UV rays are able to penetrate the clouds, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, and skin cancer is not the only type of harm that it can cause.
Eyes are sensitive to the sun too. Sun exposure has been associated with long term ramifications including premature development of macular degeneration and possibly cataract disease, in addition to ocular melanoma and other vision-threatening eye diseases and conditions.
What can you do to protect your eyes from the sun?
When you go outdoors, wear sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. Wrap around styles and sunwear with larger lenses provide more protection. Since UVA rays can actually penetrate glass windows, we recommend getting a UV protective coating on your clear eyeglasses for indoor use too. Many contact lenses are UV protective, but it’s a good idea to check.
In addition to sunglasses, wear a sunhat with a wide brim to shade your face, and avoid extended hours in the sun.
Glare from the sun can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, asphalt and even snow. Polarized lenses offer excellent anti-glare protection, providing you with comfortable eyesight, even on the sunniest days.
Ask your Mississauga eye doctor about sun protection today. Mississauga Vision Center has recently added Tom Ford and Prada sunglasses to our must-see collection.