Protecting Your Eyes From Autumn Uv Light

Did you know that UV light changes from season to season? It is important to wear your sunglasses in all seasons to protect your eyes from autumn UV light. When we ask our patients how well they have been protecting their eyes from UV exposure, many of them say they wear their sunglasses only during the summer. Unbeknownst to them, exposure to light during winter or autumn can also have long term effects on their eye health. No matter what season it is, we advise our patients to wear sunglasses when they are enjoying any natural light.
 

UV Exposure during Winter and Autumn

It is crucial to get protective sunglasses during winter and autumn. The change of season does not mean that UV rays are not still present.  UV light can penetrate through the dermis layer, this penetration is linked to premature aging and the development of skin cancer.

If you travel to an area with snow, the snow reflections can result in about an 80% increase in UV rays and cause damage to your exposed eyes and skin. You should wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen to protect the delicate skin around your eyes from wrinkling and sun damage.
 

How Light Affects Your Eyes

During winter, snow reflections increase the amount of light entering the eye. This causes the pupil to contract and reduce the amount of light entering the eye to reach the retina. This results in uncomfortable eye strain and may affect your daily activities.

Chronic exposure to bright sunlight and reflections can cause permanent eye damage. This situation can result from photo-oxidative damage where the light affects the retina. This light causes the retina to produce reactive molecules that damage the surrounding molecules.
 

Visit Us Today to Purchase High-Quality Sunglasses

If you need high-quality sunglasses to help maintain the health of your eyes, come ask our opticians which lens is best for you. At Reeve-Woods Eye Center, we are committed to offering various types of sunglasses to suit your budget, preferences, and eye conditions. Call us today at (530) 899-2244 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.