When it comes to tanning, whether in the sun or in the bed, there are endless ways to make mistakes. And unfortunately, one of the biggest and most common mistakes is forgoing eye protection.
Continue reading to learn why it is so important to wear some form of eye protection when tanning, and the options you have for doing so.
UV Rays and Eye Damage
In the presence of UV rays, your eyes are vulnerable to damage; damage that can be avoided with the proper protection. Whether stickers, goggles, or sunglasses, protecting your eyes while tanning should be a top priority. Closing your eyes is NOT sufficient protection. Some people never use eye protection when tanning, while others will wear some for the first half and then remove them for the rest of the time. Both tanning practices are strongly objected by both medical professionals and tanning consultants.
Possible Eye Problems
Did you know your eyes can get a sunburn just like skin can? Furthermore, it only takes one tanning session to damage your eyes. Ultraviolet light can harm retinas, corneas, and tissues in the eye, leading to all sorts of problems.
Photokeratitis, also known as ultraviolet keratitis, is a temporary corneal burn that causes watery eyes, pain, and blurring. This condition may last for several days, depending on the severity. Fortunately, it can be treated with eye drops and medication.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that can develop as a result of failing to protect your eyes in UV light. This conditions affects the delicate eye tissue, which when damaged, causes swelling and redness in and around the eye.
Repeated exposure to UV light can cause irreversible eye damage in some cases, such as reduces color perception, nearsightedness, farsightedness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, trouble seeing the dark, and more. Unfortunately, there is no cure for these conditions. Long-term exposure to UV light can also cause more serious diseases and conditions, such as Basal Cell Carcinoma, as mentioned before, and cataracts, which can only be cured with surgery.
2 Vital Tips to Remember
The two most important tips you can use when it comes to your eyes and tanning is to 1) ALWAYS wear eye protection, and 2) NEVER share eye goggles with others. This can cause infections like conjunctivitis.