How UV Rays Affect Your Eyes—and How to Stay Protected

by | May 30, 2025 | eyecare, Eyecare Technology

Understanding Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation and Its Impact on Eye Health

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a component of sunlight invisible to the naked eye, poses significant risks to our ocular health. While most are aware of the dangers UV rays present to the skin, the eyes are often overlooked despite being equally vulnerable. UV radiation is divided into three types—UVA, UVB, and UVC. Although UVC is mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere, UVA and UVB rays penetrate deeply and can cause cumulative damage to various eye structures.

The Vulnerability of the Eyes to UV Damage

The eyes, unlike the skin, lack a protective pigment barrier. Prolonged or intense UV exposure can affect critical eye components, such as:

  • Cornea: Directly absorbs most UVB rays, leading to painful inflammations like photokeratitis.

  • Lens: Continual UV exposure contributes to cataract formation, a leading cause of vision impairment globally.

  • Retina: Though most UV rays don’t reach the retina, certain intensities and exposures can exacerbate macular degeneration, especially in individuals lacking proper eye protection.

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of UV Exposure on Eyes

Short-Term Effects

  • Photokeratitis: Often referred to as “sunburn of the eye,” this condition results from intense UVB exposure over a short period. Symptoms include pain, redness, tearing, blurred vision, and even temporary blindness.

  • Pterygium: This non-cancerous growth on the white part of the eye can extend to the cornea and distort vision. It’s commonly seen in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without eye protection.

Long-Term Effects

  • Cataracts: Long-term UV exposure is a major contributing factor to cataract development. The World Health Organization estimates that up to 20% of cataracts may be caused or enhanced by UV radiation.

  • Macular Degeneration: UV rays may contribute to the degeneration of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. This leads to irreversible vision loss in older adults.

  • Skin Cancer Around the Eyes: The delicate skin around the eyes, including the eyelids, is highly susceptible to UV-induced carcinomas, especially basal and squamous cell carcinomas.

Who Is at Greater Risk?

Certain individuals are more vulnerable to UV damage due to a combination of environmental and physiological factors:

  • Outdoor Workers: Farmers, construction workers, and lifeguards are exposed to high levels of sunlight daily.

  • Geographic Location: People living at high altitudes or near the equator receive more intense UV radiation.

  • Children: Their eyes have larger pupils and clearer lenses, allowing more UV rays to penetrate.

  • Individuals Without Sunglasses: Regularly going without proper eye protection greatly increases risk over time.

How to Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

Wear UV-Blocking Sunglasses

Sunglasses are the first line of defense. Opt for models that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for labels stating “UV400 protection,” which ensures maximum shielding from harmful wavelengths.

Key features to look for:

  • Wraparound Frames: Prevent peripheral UV entry.

  • Polarized Lenses: Reduce glare, especially effective near water or snow.

  • Impact-Resistant Lenses: Polycarbonate lenses offer durability and UV protection.

Use a Wide-Brimmed Hat

Complement sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat. It can reduce eye exposure to UV rays by up to 50%, providing an additional protective layer.

Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Near Eyes

While not directly for the eyes, broad-spectrum sunscreen around the eyes and on the eyelids can reduce the risk of skin cancers and UV-related aging signs. Use gentle, ophthalmologist-approved formulas to avoid irritation.

Limit Sun Exposure During Peak Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, stay indoors during these hours or ensure enhanced eye protection if outdoor activity is necessary.

Invest in UV-Protective Contact Lenses

Certain contact lenses offer built-in UV protection. While not a substitute for sunglasses, they add a valuable layer of defense, especially for individuals needing vision correction.

Educate and Protect Children Early

Children are at heightened risk. Equip them with UV-protective eyewear and encourage habits like wearing hats and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours. Establishing these habits early can prevent lifelong damage.

Special Considerations: Reflective Surfaces and Artificial Sources

Beware of Reflective Surfaces

UV radiation doesn’t just come directly from the sun. Surfaces like water, snow, sand, and concrete can reflect UV rays and intensify exposure. For instance:

  • Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays.

  • Water reflects up to 10-30%.

Proper protection is crucial during skiing, boating, or beach activities.

Protection from Artificial UV Sources

Artificial sources such as welding equipment, tanning beds, and mercury vapor lamps emit intense UV radiation. Always use certified UV-filtering shields or goggles when operating or near these sources.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are essential not only for vision correction but also for early detection of UV-related eye diseases. Eye care professionals can identify subtle changes and suggest preventive strategies tailored to individual needs.

During a comprehensive exam, your optometrist or ophthalmologist will:

  • Check for early signs of cataracts and macular degeneration.

  • Evaluate the overall health of the retina.

  • Recommend protective lenses if UV damage risk is high.

Conclusion: UV Eye Protection is a Lifelong Priority

The effects of UV radiation on eye health are real, cumulative, and often irreversible. Proactive protection, using a combination of sunglasses, hats, avoidance of peak sunlight hours, and routine check-ups, is essential for safeguarding vision. Whether you’re heading to the beach, working outdoors, or simply commuting, integrating these protective measures can dramatically reduce your risk of serious eye conditions.

Dr. Bryan Fuller

Dr. Bryan Fuller of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. Fuller grew up in Issaquah, Washington and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University. He decided to ditch the calculator and trade it in for a phoropter and slit lamp. He headed east to The Ohio State University where he received his Optometry degree in 1998. Go Bucks! Not wanting to return to the gray of Washington, after graduation, he headed southwest to sunny Arizona. Shortly thereafter he met Dr. McPhelan and they partnered up at their original location, Optical Illusions. With the success of the first location, the two doctors opened up their north location, Optique at the Ridge. After many years of operating the two locations, it was time for an upgrade. In 2016 they merged the two locations into their larger and current location, Tatum Eyecare! When not at the office, Dr. Fuller enjoys spending his free time with his amazing wife and two boys. Dr. Fuller holds the following degrees:

Ohio State University - Doctorate of Optometry
Washington State University - B.S. Mechanical Engineering

Dr. James McPhelan

Dr. James McPhelan of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. McPhelan grew up in Southern California and enlisted in the Army at age 17. He graduated from Southern California College of Optometry in 1976, then started practicing optometry in Arizona in 1977. Over the next few years, he grew 20/20 Eye Care to 15 offices. In 1999, he and Dr. Fuller took over Optical Illusions, then opened Optique at the Ridge. In 2016, they created Tatum Eyecare. In his spare time, Dr. McPhelan is an avid golfer, often competing in multiple tournaments through the year. Dr. McPhelan holds the following degrees:


Southern California College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry

Dr. Houle

Dr. Houle
Dr. Houle is following in her father's footsteps as an optometrist. She is a North Dakota native who received her Bachelor's degree from the University of North Dakota before earning her Doctorate of Optometry from Midwestern University - Arizona College of Optometry. Dr. Houle began her career in eye care more than 10 years ago, and she worked as a receptionist, optician, and technician before becoming an optometrist. She has a particular interest in the management of ocular disease including dry eye and glaucoma. In her free time, Dr. Houle is an avid baseball fan (go Twins!) and spends as much time as possible with her friends and family in both Arizona and North Dakota.

Midwestern University – Arizona College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry
University of North Dakota - Bachelor of Science: Biology

Dr. Kenneth O'Daniel

Dr. Kenneth O'Daniel of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. O’Daniel was born in the beautiful mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina and grew up in Dayton, Ohio. He attended Wright State University and graduated with his BS in Biology in 1977; shortly thereafter, beginning his Masters in BioChemistry.

Dr. O’Daniel is also a 1983 graduate of the Illinois College Optometry. He met his wife Lori during this period. Lori, a Chicago native, became an integral part of his practice (and life!) shortly thereafter.
He moved to Scottsdale in 1986 to begin practicing inside LensCrafters. In 1990 Dr. O'Daniel opened the Scottsdale LensCrafters, and he also presided as its director of Optometric services.
Dr. O’Daniel became an Optometrist because of his love and passion for photography, physics, and desire provide patients with the ability to see the world more clearly. As a licensed optometrist, Dr. O’Daniel provides complete eye care services for the surrounding communities ages seven and up.
Dr. O’Daniel has had a working relationship with both Dr. Fuller and McPhellan for over two decades. He has served as past director for the Arizona Optometric Association, and past President of the Central Arizona Optometric Society. In January, 2018 Dr. O’Daniel decided to join Tatum Eye Care, the premier Eye Care Center in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Dr. O’Daniel’s goal is simple: Provide Excellent Eye Care, treat patients as family, and treat everyone honestly and fairly!

Dr. Christina Wong

Dr. Christina Wong of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
A southern California native, Dr. Wong attended UCLA where she received her B.S. in Biology. She then completed her Doctorate of Optometry at the Southern California College of Optometry. Dr. Wong moved to Arizona to complete a residency in ocular disease at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital on the Gila River Indian Reservation. Following residency, Dr. Wong earned the distinction of Fellow in the American Academy of Optometry.

Dr. Wong provides comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages, from pediatrics through seniors. She has a special interest in the management of medical eye conditions including glaucoma, eye infections, dry eye and diabetic retinopathy.
Outside of the office, Dr. Wong enjoys running, going to the beach, rooting for the Bruins, and spending time with her husband and three daughters.
University of California Los Angeles - B.S. in Biology
Southern California College of Optometry - Doctorate of Optometry

Dr. Ryan Felten

Dr. Felten of Tatum Eye Care in Phoenix Arizona
Dr. Felten is a native to Arizona, and was raised in North Phoenix where most of his family still resides. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University; then returned home to Arizona to pursue his Doctor of Optometry at Midwestern University in Glendale. While at Midwestern University, he was a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society and was the recipient of the Clinical Excellence Award in Pediatrics and Vision Therapy. Dr. Felten enjoys working with patients of all ages and also speaks fluent Spanish. Dr. Felten holds the following degrees:


Brigham Young University - Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Midwestern University - Doctorate of Optometry