Summertime often means long hours in the sun in Palm Beach County. Most of us remember to protect our skin by applying sunblock, but do not forget that your eyes need protection as well. It is important to start wearing proper eye protection at an early age to shield your eyes from years of ultraviolet exposure.

The American Optometric Association encourages buyers to make sure their beloved sunglasses provide excellent protection from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You most likely are aware that too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer. The UV rays can harm your eyes. 

When you are performing your daily sun protection regimen, do not just stop by applying sunscreen. Make sure to wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a visor or brimmed hat to further shade your eyes from the sun. It is a simple step that can make a world of difference in your eye health!

Extended exposure to the sun's UV rays has been linked to significant eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, pinguecula, pterygia, and photokeratitis. To be sure your sunglasses will adequately protect your eyes, follow these tips from the American Optometric Association: 

-        Be sure your sunglasses block out 99 to 100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays.

-        Your sunglasses should screen out 75 to 90% of visible light.

-        The frame of your sunglasses needs to fit close to your eyes and contour to the shape of your face. It prevents exposure to UV rays from all sides.

-        Pick lenses that are perfectly matched in color and are free of distortion and imperfection. The lenses should also have a uniform tint, not darker in one area than another.

-        The AOA suggests a gray tint, which is particularly helpful when driving as it offers the best color recognition.