Sun Protection Now
Blog vol 5.48. Sun Protection Now
As it starts to heat up in Southern Ontario, remember to cover up. We all like the sun (for those in Vancouver, it is that round yellow circle that shows up from time to time over the Burrard Inlet).
The sun brings ultraviolet light, which packs a lot of energy into an afternoon at the beach.
Sun glasses!
Just as you slather the SPF40 on your body, think about SPF for the eyes. I took a course on advanced eye care procedures this year and one of the main talking points was the damage that UV can do to the eyes and the surrounding tissue. Working with vision care and various conditions, especially cataracts and macular degeneration, one gets a real world take on UV’s ravages.
Over the years I have promoted UV protection in spectacle lenses, in contact lenses, and in sunglasses. What I did not fully realize was the huge need for protection of the tissue surrounding the eyes. As optometrists, we look after “zone 3”, the area in and around the eyes. This includes the development of carcinomas, such as basal cell, squamous cell, and sebaceous gland varieties, which are more common than you think, and if left to spread can metastasize to a full body event.
UV is not nice.
Prevention is the key. A full-covering sun lens is essential for protection of your eyes and the surrounding area. The lenses should have full UVA, UVB, and UVC filters that shield your eyes and the delicate skin around them from these damaging rays. Just like with SPF creams, you need to fully cover up and you need to make it a habit. It is the long term exposure to these rays that really creates problems.
Regular eye exams.
Of course, but it is worth repeating, your eye health is a prime concern, but also because some skin types are more prone, some skin tissues just misbehave, so let us take a look at those “bumps” around the eyes and help to keep you in the healthy zone. We have a wide selection of fashion forward and sporty looking frames in many different colours and filters for your specific needs and very capable opticians to help you navigate the options.
Enjoy the summer weather!
Til next week,
the good doctor
