As the weather warms up, many people tend to spend more time outdoors. But before you head out this summer, it’s important to know how to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. To help protect yourself this season, the eye care experts from Wing Eyecare in Miamisburg, OH, are sharing some helpful tips below.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses aren’t just a fashionable accessory — they are made to protect your eyes when it’s sunny outside. But before you grab your next pair of shades, make sure they’re labeled “100% UV protection.” Even if you wear contact lenses that offer basic UV protection, they’re not enough to adequately protect your eyes. For optimal protection, choose a pair of sunglasses that offer wraparound coverage so sun rays can’t come in from the side. If you typically wear eyeglasses with transition lenses, consider getting sunglasses made with prescription lenses instead. Transition lenses do not always work behind your windshield, so it’s best to have backup eye protection.

Hat

For long days at the beach and other outdoor activities, it’s always a good idea to bring a hat. Broad-brimmed hats can shade your eyes from the sun, offering valuable protection against UV damage. Exposure to UV light can increase the risk of cataracts and cancer on the eyes, requiring extensive eye care treatments — so the more protection, the better. If you have children, outfit them with the proper protection as well.

Cover Up When It’s Cloudy

On overcast days, you might be tempted to ditch the sunscreen and sunglasses. But even when there are clouds in the sky, harmful UV rays can still pass through and damage your skin and eyes. Although clouds can block visible light, eye care experts advise that clouds offer very little protection against UV rays. Whether the sky is clear or hazy, always protect your eyes when going outside, especially during midday to early afternoon when UV rays are most harmful.

For professional eye care in Miamisburg, OH, choose the trusted specialists at Wing Eyecare. Since 1914, they’ve come to be known as an exceptional provider of eye care for the local community. Visit them online for more information, or call (937) 247-2000 to get in touch with their office today. You can also find the team on Facebook.