Summer in Spokane Valley often means more time outdoors, whether that’s at the lake, on the trail, at sporting events, or just enjoying longer daylight hours. With all that extra time in the sun, it’s easy to forget how much exposure your eyes are getting throughout the day.
In this blog, we share tips for protecting your eyes from UV rays and reducing sun-related eye strain and long-term damage.
The eye health risks of UV exposure
Many people think about sunscreen first and overlook eye protection. But the eyes are just as vulnerable to UV exposure as the skin.
Too much UV exposure can contribute to:
- Cataracts over time
- Macular damage
- Corneal irritation (photokeratitis or “sunburn of the eye”)
- Increased dryness and light sensitivity
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still pass through and reach your eyes, often at levels high enough to cause long-term damage over time.
How UV rays affect vision over time
UV damage builds slowly. You may not notice effects right away, but long-term exposure can increase risk for certain eye conditions later in life.
Common symptoms after sun exposure can include:
- Red, irritated eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Tired or strained vision
- A gritty or burning sensation
Protective habits early on help reduce cumulative exposure over time.
Wear sunglasses that block 100% UV rays
Not all sunglasses offer the same level of protection. Dark lenses without UV coating can actually cause pupils to dilate, allowing more UV light inside the eye.
Look for:
- 100% UVA and UVB protection
- UV400 labeling
- Wraparound frames for added coverage
Polarized lenses can also help reduce glare, especially around water or while driving.
Use hats for extra protection
A hat adds a simple but effective layer of defense against direct sunlight.
Good options include:
- Wide-brim hats for full face coverage
- Baseball caps paired with sunglasses
- Lightweight, breathable materials for outdoor comfort
- Shade plus UV-blocking lenses work better together than either alone.
Don’t forget eye protection during water activities
Water reflects UV rays, increasing exposure during boating, swimming, or beach days.
Helpful ways to keep your eyes more comfortable and protected include:
- Wearing sunglasses with secure frames or straps
- Using wraparound styles for better coverage
- Avoiding prolonged direct reflection exposure when possible
Be mindful of dry eyes in summer weather
Hot, dry air and wind can worsen dry eye symptoms. Air conditioning and outdoor breezes can also contribute to irritation.
To stay more comfortable:
- Take breaks from direct wind exposure
- Stay hydrated
- Use lubricating eye drops if recommended
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce tear evaporation
- Schedule regular eye exams for long-term protection
During a comprehensive eye exam, our skilled optometrist does more than update your prescription. We also check eye health and can identify early signs of UV-related changes before symptoms appear.
We can also help match sunglasses or lenses to your lifestyle, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Protecting your vision all summer long
Eye protection in the summer comes down to small habits that add up—quality sunglasses, consistent use of hats, and awareness of UV exposure during everyday activities. These steps help support long-term eye comfort and health while still enjoying everything the season has to offer.
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at EyeQ Optical today to explore UV protection options and keep your vision comfortable and protected all summer long.
