Summer heat and the sun's UV rays can wreak havoc on your eyes. Here's how to protect yourself.
Staying safe in the summer sun required more than slathering on sunscreen. Although the conversation often revolves around how to protect your skin in the heat, taking care of your eyes is just as important. According to the World Health Organization, there are 15 million people in the world who are blind from cataracts, and for up to 10% of these individuals, the cause of their condition may have been exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Fortunately, there are simple ways to prevent the sun from damaging your eyes. Keep reading to learn how to protect your eyes against the elements this summer. For more eye care tips, check out the best places to buy glasses and contact lenses online. Protecting your eyes from the sun in the warm weather From wearing sunglasses to following a balanced diet, there are plenty of ways to protect your eyes in the heat. Here are some science-backed tips for summer eye care. Wear sunglasses One of the easiest -- and most stylish -- ways to take care of your eyes is by wearing sunglasses during the day. When your eyes aren't protected in the sun, they're exposed to multiple types of UV rays, which can increase your risk of certain diseases, including photokeratitis and cataracts. Westend61/Getty Images Consider polarized lenses Polarized lenses are designed with a special chemical that filters more light than other sunglasses. They also reduce glare from reflective surfaces, like water and snow, so they're a good option if you spend a lot of time outside. Choose the right lens color While it may seem like darker lenses would provide more protection from UV rays, the opposite is true. Extremely dark lenses force your pupils to open wider, allowing more sunlight into your eyes. Instead of dark lenses, opt for gray or smoke-colored lenses to get the most sun protection. Keep your eyes hydrated During summer, your eyes can dry out quickly, particularly if you live in a dry climate, sit in air-conditioned spaces regularly or spend…