Sunglasses and summer? A perfect fit! Sunglasses and winter? Much more important than you’d think. Every time your child’s eyes are exposed to ultraviolet light, he or she risks UV damage. The damage kids incur now could lead to UV-related eye diseases in their adulthood. Let’s take a closer look at a few reasons keeping the shades on when outdoors – no matter the season – is so important.
- Heading to the snow? The risk for eye damage is greater. The shiny surface of snow can reflect as much as 80% of the sun’s rays. In fact, more of the sun reflects off snow than the surface of a pool! And because you’ll likely be headed up in elevation to get to colder temperatures, your eyes are even more exposed. At higher altitudes, there is less atmosphere to help filter out ultraviolet rays. Eye protection is key if you take any trips to snowy locations this winter.
- Eye sunburn is possible. In the same way the sun’s rays can burn our skin, it can also burn the outer layers of our eyes. Although your children might fall out of the habit of wearing sunglasses during the shorter winter days, their eyes are still at risk. It’s a great idea to keep the whole family in the practice of wearing sunglasses every month of the year.
- Not all sunglasses are created equal. Winter is actually a great time to buy your children sunglasses, as the lenses are usually darker than they are in the summer seasons. Whenever you sunglass shop, make sure you choose a pair with complete UVA and UVB protection. A sticker will usually let you know!
We hope this guide keeps your kids – and their eyes – healthy this winter! Contact the Pediatric Surgical Associates for all your pediatric surgical needs. Our pediatric surgeons in Orange County are experts at protecting your kids’ health and wellness!