While it is widely known that ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause damage to the eyes. But what you might not know is that eye color is a factor in how much you’re susceptible to UV damage. In today’s post, your local optometrist at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic discusses why people with light-colored eyes are at higher risk for UV damage.
Melanin is a group of natural pigments that’s responsible for the color of our hair, skin, and eyes. It helps protect the skin and eyes from UV rays by absorbing and dissipating it. Therefore, a person with darker skin and eye color is at lower risk of problems caused by UV rays.
Eye color does not affect visual acuity, but people with low melanin levels — including those with blue, green, or gray eyes — are at higher risk of diseases such as macular degeneration. Exposure to UV rays can result in eye damage that leads to macular degeneration and cataracts, while long-term exposure can increase the risk of developing rare eye cancers like uveal melanoma.
Protecting your eyes against UV damage doesn’t take much: all you need is to make sure you wear sunglasses with UV filters when you go out. When buying sunglasses, avoid buying them off convenience store racks and instead invest in ones that have lenses with UV filters. If you wear prescription glasses, you can also ask your optometrist for prescription sunglasses.
It’s important to note that whatever your eye color, you should protect your eyes from UV damage all year round. UV rays can reach the eyes indirectly through reflective surfaces like light-colored building exteriors, snow-covered ground, and commercial rooftops. It helps to carry a pair of sunglasses every time you go out, especially when you have to spend hours in such areas.
If you need an optometrist or eye care assistance, call Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic at (425) 771-8472. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Bothell, Lynnwood, and Shoreline, WA.