As the summer sun graces us with its warmth, our eyes are exposed to the brilliance of the season. In this series of Summer Eyecare Tips, we’ve explored essential strategies to ensure your eyes remain both stylish and healthy under the radiant embrace of summer.
Summer Eyecare Tip #1: Sunglasses - Protecting Your Vision Under the Sun
When embarking on the exciting venture of shopping for sunglasses and eye protection this summer, keep a few essential tips in mind to ensure your eyes are stylishly shielded from the sun’s rays. First and foremost, prioritize sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, safeguarding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Consider opting for polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially if you plan on spending time near water or engaging in outdoor activities. Size matters, so choose larger, wrap-around styles to maximize coverage and protection. While lens colour doesn’t affect UV protection, selecting hues like brown or rose can enhance contrast. For those with an adventurous spirit, lean towards impact-resistant plastic lenses for added safety. Remember, the price tag doesn’t always reflect quality, so focus on the 100% UV protection label rather than the cost. Finally, when shopping for eye protection, think beyond sunglasses – invest in facial sunscreens for delicate skin and pair your sunglasses with a stylish hat for comprehensive eye care. With these tips, you’ll not only elevate your summer style but also prioritize the health and safety of your eyes under the sun’s warm embrace.
As you embark on the quest for the perfect sunglasses and eye protection this summer, remember to prioritize both style and functionality. For those with a refractive error, shopping for sunglasses might pose a unique challenge, considering the need for prescription lenses or finding sunglasses that comfortably fit over regular glasses. However, fear not, for an alternative exists that promises effortless shopping: laser vision correction, such as LASIK. It is possible to experience the freedom to bask in the summer sun with unobstructed, clear sight. So, if you plan on rocking trendy shades consider the liberating path of LASIK and make this summer a season of style and visual freedom. Your eyes deserve it!
Summer Eyecare Tip #2: Protect Those Peepers with Sunscreen
As the summer sun beckons, promising days filled with warmth and outdoor adventures, it’s crucial to consider the often-overlooked hero in our skincare routine – sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of extending sunscreen protection to your eyelids. Opt for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Application is key, and don’t skimp on the amount. Applying at least 20 minutes before sun exposure allows the skin to absorb the protective ingredients. Neglecting sunscreen can lead to severe consequences such as skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin issues. Avoid common sunscreen slip-ups, like applying it only when you’re already at the beach or being too stingy with the application. Don’t forget crucial areas, such as eyelids and lips, which are often missed but are susceptible to sun damage. Reapplication every two hours, especially after swimming or heavy perspiration, is vital for continuous protection. Even on cloudy days, sunscreen is a must, as 80% of UV rays still reach your skin. Lastly, check the expiration date on your sunscreen, as its effectiveness diminishes over time. Stay sun-safe and keep your eyes and skin protected all summer long!
Beyond its role in preventing sunburns, sunscreen emerges as a potent ally in the battle against aging, a fact that often eludes those who invest fortunes in anti-aging products. According to a ground-breaking study published in the influential Annals of Internal Medicine, individuals who diligently use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily experience a remarkable 24 percent reduction in skin aging compared to intermittent users. This study, spanning over four years and tracking more than 900 participants, revealed that even those who began daily sunscreen applications in their 40s and 50s witnessed a noticeable decrease in the visible signs of aging. Incorporating sunscreen into our routine is a formidable shield against the hands of time.
Summer Eyecare Tip #2: Protect Those Peepers with Sunscreen
As the summer sun beckons, promising days filled with warmth and outdoor adventures, it’s crucial to consider the often-overlooked hero in our skincare routine – sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of extending sunscreen protection to your eyelids. Opt for a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Application is key, and don’t skimp on the amount. Applying at least 20 minutes before sun exposure allows the skin to absorb the protective ingredients. Neglecting sunscreen can lead to severe consequences such as skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin issues. Avoid common sunscreen slip-ups, like applying it only when you’re already at the beach or being too stingy with the application. Don’t forget crucial areas, such as eyelids and lips, which are often missed but are susceptible to sun damage. Reapplication every two hours, especially after swimming or heavy perspiration, is vital for continuous protection. Even on cloudy days, sunscreen is a must, as 80% of UV rays still reach your skin. Lastly, check the expiration date on your sunscreen, as its effectiveness diminishes over time. Stay sun-safe and keep your eyes and skin protected all summer long!
Beyond its role in preventing sunburns, sunscreen emerges as a potent ally in the battle against aging, a fact that often eludes those who invest fortunes in anti-aging products. According to a ground-breaking study published in the influential Annals of Internal Medicine, individuals who diligently use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily experience a remarkable 24 percent reduction in skin aging compared to intermittent users. This study, spanning over four years and tracking more than 900 participants, revealed that even those who began daily sunscreen applications in their 40s and 50s witnessed a noticeable decrease in the visible signs of aging. Incorporating sunscreen into our routine is a formidable shield against the hands of time.
Summer Eyecare Tip #4: Never Swim with Contact Lenses
As summer beckons, tempting us with refreshing pools and crystal-clear waters, it’s crucial to heed a vital warning: never swim with contact lenses. While the allure of underwater adventures may be strong, wearing contact lenses in water exposes your eyes to a host of potential dangers. Water, whether from pools, lakes, or oceans, can harbour harmful microorganisms that adhere to lenses and increase the risk of eye infections. Additionally, contact lenses can absorb water, leading to discomfort and distorted vision. To safeguard your eye health during water activities, opt for prescription goggles or consider LASIK, a liberating alternative that eliminates the need for corrective lenses altogether. Laser vision correction like LASIK ensures clear, unobstructed vision without the hassle of contacts, allowing you to dive into summer fun with both clarity and confidence. After LASIK you should allow 1 month of healing before swimming in the ocean or rivers. According to research sight threatening infections are seen 10 times more often in contract lens wearers than in those who choose LASIK. Prioritize your eye safety this summer – leave the contacts out when making a splash!
Summer Eyecare Tip #5: Nourish Your Vision from Within
Amidst the vibrant hues of summer, embark on a journey to protect your sight by embracing a diet that fuels not just your body but also your eye health. As nature provides an abundance of fresh, colourful produce, seize the opportunity to indulge in a nutrition-rich feast for your eyes. Infuse your meals with a variety of nutrients crucial for eye health, such as vitamins A, C, and E, along with minerals like zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Revel in leafy greens, vibrant fruits, and vegetables that deliver essential antioxidants, promoting optimal vision. Incorporate kale, spinach, carrots, berries, and citrus fruits into your summer culinary escapades. For an omega-3 boost, savour seafood delights like salmon and trout, while nuts and seeds provide a vitamin E punch. Beans and whole grains, rich in zinc, round out the nourishing ensemble. As you indulge in this visual feast, consider how laser vision correction, such as LASIK, can liberate your eyes from the constraints of corrective lenses, offering a summer of clarity and freedom. So, let your plate be a canvas of eye-pleasing nutrients, ensuring your vision shines as brightly as the summer sun.
Conclusion
As we bid farewell to this summer eyecare journey, remember that your eyes deserve the utmost care and attention. Whether you’re rocking stylish sunglasses, embracing the liberating choice of LASIK, protecting your eyes with sunscreen, giving them the rest they need, or nourishing them from within, these tips are your gateway to a season of clarity and visual freedom. Let the vibrant hues of summer be mirrored in the health and radiance of your eyes. Cheers to a summer where your eyes shine as brightly as the sun, and where every adventure is seen with crystal-clear vision!
📅 2024/25 Planning: Clinic closes 20 December 2024 & opens 2 January 2025.
Disclaimer: Glasses remain a safe option as they do not involve any medical procedure. LASIK is a lifestyle choice for those seeking unaided vision and may not be suitable if you are content with wearing glasses. Research suggests the cumulative risk of contact lenses may exceed that of LASIK. Three-Year Longitudinal Survey Comparing Visual Satisfaction with LASIK and Contact Lenses https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27208981/
Written by Dr Yolandie
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