By Dr. Stephen Taylor
Question: I’ve heard that sunglasses are important year-round but the UV index is so low right now. Is it really that big of a deal to wear sun protection when outside in winter, regardless of weather?
Answer: While winter sun feels gentler and sunglasses may not be top-of-mind in February, your eyes face strong UV exposure at this time of year. Snow, water, or wet roads can reflect up to 80% of UV radiation, hitting your eyes from both above and below. This significantly increases your risk of photokeratitis (a sunburn on the eye’s surface) and long-term damage to the lens and retina. Since ultraviolet radiation also increases with altitude, consistent eye protection is critical for alpine environments, whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, birdwatching, or even just watching your kid (aka future Olympian) take her first lesson on the bunny hill.
For active winter sports, the best protection is a quality pair of goggleswith full-spectrum UV filtering up to 400 nanometers. Certain tints enhance contrast in all kinds of weather, even in overcast conditions. Goggles have the advantage of fully blocking light from the top and sides as well as guarding your eyes and surrounding skin from wind, debris, or blowing snow; mirrored lenses can add an additional layer of defense in the most demanding environments. For more sedate winter pastimes, a nice set of wraparound sunglasses, preferably with polarized lenses and ample coverage for the entire orbital area, offers your eyes and the delicate skin around them immediate comfort as well as UV protection. So whether you are enjoying your favourite outdoor pursuit or driving over the Malahat, guarding your eyes from glare and UV damage will keep you safer today and healthier for the long run. Twenty years from now you’ll want to be able to see your future Olympian on top of that podium, after all! And, don’t forget the sunscreen–all year round.
At Mayfair Optometric Clinic we provide a welcoming environment for patients to receive eye exams and pickout the perfect eyewear that works for each individual.
Please give us a call to book your appointment with Dr. Peddle, Dr. Stasiuk or myself.
