Whether you enjoy watching the waves come in on the horizon or delight in the colors of an ocean sunrise, there are many beautiful sights to see at the beach. However, while a summer beach getaway has many enjoyable perks, there are some elements at the beach that can put you at risk of eye damage. To help you avoid emergency trips to your optometrist, here are five ways to protect your eyes at the beach.

Top Eye Safety Tips to Practice at the Beach

1. Wear Broad-Spectrum Sunglasses

Shielding your eyes from the sun’s UV rays is essential to reducing your risk of skin cancer, macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases. This is especially true at the beach, as sunlight can reflect off the water, increasing your overall UV exposure. Fortunately, you can keep your eyes protected by wearing polarized sunglasses that defend against both UV-A and UV-B rays. If you use corrective lenses, talk to your optometrist about prescription sunglasses so you can see clearly and safely.

2. Wear Goggles

The ocean is full of contaminants that can irritate, damage, or infect your eye. Swimming pools aren’t much safer, as they contain chemicals that are harmful to eyes as well. So when you next go for a swim, wear a secure pair of goggles that keeps the water out of your eyes.

3. Don’t Swim Wearing Contacts

Wearing goggles is especially important if you wear contact lenses. If you don’t have goggles with you, be sure to take your contact lenses out before you dive into the ocean or a pool. The contaminants found in water can become trapped under the lenses, causing them to irritate or infect your eye. In more severe cases, wearing contacts in the water can result in corneal ulcers, which increases your risk of vision loss.

4. Apply Sunscreen Carefully

Many sunscreens contain chemicals that can cause irritation if they get into your eye. While you should protect yourself from the harsh rays of the beach sun, it’s best to use sunscreens designed for facial application around your eyes, as they tend to be less irritating. If you do get sunscreen in your eyes, flush them out with clean water.

5. Avoid Rubbing

Avoid the temptation to rub your eyes, especially when you’re getting out of the water. The beach is full of potential irritants, so any contact with your eyes can run the risk of rubbing sand particles into your cornea, causing irritation and potential damage. Rinsing your eyes with tap water can help remove the sand, but if irritation persists, see an optometrist for further evaluation.

Providing family eye care to the High Point, NC community, Alan L. Ginsburg OD is a leading resource for all your optical needs this summer. Before you head to the beach, Dr. Ginsburg can provide you with a comprehensive exam to screen for and treat vision problems and eye diseases so you can enjoy the sights. This friendly optometrist also offers comfortable and stylish prescription sunglasses that are ideal for the season. Visit this eye doctor online to learn more about his services or call (336) 889-6566 to schedule an appointment.