Keep Your Eyes Safe When You’re at the Beach!
A day at the beach is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the summer sunshine. But while you’re packing sunscreen to protect your skin, don’t forget about your eyes! The beach presents unique risks for your vision, from harsh UV rays to irritating sand and saltwater. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts, making proper eye care essential.
Before you head out for some fun in the sun, follow these simple tips to keep your eyes safe and comfortable.
1. Avoid Touching Your Eyes
Sand has a way of getting everywhere—your hair, your swimsuit, your beach towel, and, unfortunately, your hands. It’s easy to accidentally transfer sand to your eyes, which can cause irritation, redness, and even small scratches on your cornea.
If you do get sand in your eyes, resist the urge to rub them, as this can make the problem worse. Instead, use clean water or a saline solution to flush out any particles. Keep a small bottle of artificial tears or sterile saline in your beach bag for quick relief.
2. Remove Your Contact Lenses Before Swimming
While contacts are great for everyday use, they aren’t ideal for the beach. Wearing them while swimming increases your risk of eye infections. Water—whether from the ocean, a lake, or a swimming pool—can carry bacteria and tiny debris that get trapped between your eye and your contact lens. This creates a breeding ground for germs and can lead to serious eye infections like keratitis.
For a worry-free beach experience, swap your contacts for prescription sunglasses. If you need vision correction while swimming, consider investing in a pair of prescription goggles that keep your eyes safe while providing clear vision underwater.
3. Wear Sunglasses for UV Protection
One of the biggest threats to your eye health at the beach is ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Overexposure to UV rays can cause photokeratitis, a painful sunburn of the eyes, as well as long-term damage that may lead to cataracts or macular degeneration.
To keep your eyes protected, choose sunglasses that:
- Block 100% of UVA and UVB rays
- Have large, wraparound frames to minimize light entering from the sides
- Feature polarized lenses to reduce glare from the water and sand
If you already wear glasses, consider getting prescription sunglasses so you can enjoy clear vision and full sun protection at the same time.
4. Bring a Hat for Extra Shade
Even with the best sunglasses, UV rays can still reach your eyes from different angles. That’s why wearing a hat with a wide brim provides an extra layer of defense. A sun hat or cap helps shield your eyes from direct sunlight and reduces glare, making it easier to see comfortably while you relax on the shore.
For the best protection, pair your sunglasses with a hat, especially if you plan on spending several hours at the beach.
5. Wear Goggles for Water and Sports Activities
If you love playing beach volleyball, paddleboarding, or swimming, consider wearing sport-specific eyewear to protect your eyes. Sports goggles help prevent sand, saltwater, and debris from getting into your eyes while allowing you to see clearly.
For swimmers, well-fitted swim goggles keep water out and prevent irritation from chlorine or salt. If you need vision correction, ask your optometrist about prescription swim goggles so you can enjoy water activities without worrying about your contacts.
6. Stay Hydrated to Prevent Dry Eyes
Spending time in the sun and salty air can leave your eyes feeling dry and irritated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your entire body, including your eyes, hydrated. You can also use lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes comfortable, especially if you’re prone to dry eye syndrome.
Protect Your Eyes While Enjoying the Sun
A beach day should be fun and carefree, but taking a few precautions can go a long way in preserving your eye health. Wearing sunglasses, avoiding contact lenses in the water, keeping your hands clean, and using protective eyewear for sports and swimming will help you enjoy the sun without harming your vision.
Get the Right Eyewear for Your Next Beach Trip
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we offer a wide selection of stylish and protective sunglasses, sports eyewear, and prescription lenses to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for polarized sunglasses, transition lenses, or prescription swim goggles, our team can help you find the perfect pair.
Book an appointment today to discuss your eyewear options and get expert advice on protecting your vision! We proudly serve patients in Edmonton, Leduc, and Westlock.
