When going outside in winter, few people consider the fact that they will still be out under the sun. Although the temperature is lower, the sun shines with the same force in winter as it does any other time of year. That means UVA and UVB rays are emitted, which can be harmful to your skin and eyes. Because most of your body is likely covered up when you head outside in December, January or February, that leaves your eyes particularly vulnerable. While the sun may not feel as strong in the winter because the air is much cooler, it sits lower in the sky at a different angle, which actually creates more exposure than in summer months if spending a period of time outside.
No matter where you go and what outdoor activities you have planned, you should always wear a pair of protective sunglasses in winter. This is not just to block harmful UV rays, but also to give you better vision, protect your corneas, and keep your eyes feeling comfortable in the cold, dry winter air.
WINTER SUNGLASSES REDUCE GLARE
Whether driving or skiing, if you are somewhere that is covered in snow, you will likely experience blinding glare at certain angles. Much like in the summer when near water, the reflection of the sun's light can impede your vision when it's in your line of sight because it makes the outside brighter. If snow is on the ground, that reflection can carry as much as 85 percent of the sun's UV rays and direct them straight up to your eyes. Bright light shining down on you and up at your face can make it difficult to see what's right in front of you. To avoid this dangerous situation, polarized winter sunglasses are ideal, particularly for drivers.
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AVOID WINTER SUNBURN WITH SHADES
In addition to the bright light reflecting back at you off the snow, harmful UV radiation bounces up to your eyes when outside without sunglasses in winter. If you are outside for an extended period of time, those reflected rays can actually sunburn your corneas and irritate them for as long as a week. Skiers and snowboarders often call this "snow blindness" because it can cause hazy vision, but it generally also comes with excessive tearing, the feeling of a foreign object in the eye, bloodshot eyes and pain.
Those up on the slopes are often at a bigger risk for eye sunburn if they don't wear winter sunglasses because of the altitude. For every 1,000 feet, you rise above sea level, UV radiation increases by 5 percent. The higher up on the mountain you are, the more likely you are to experience sunburned eyes, as there is less atmosphere acting as a blocker. That's why it is especially critical for snow athletes to have quality UV-protectant sunglasses for winter.
SUNGLASSES IN WINTER PREVENT DRY EYE
The cold temperatures and windy conditions can make the winter months especially dry. Most people feel it on their skin and lips, which may require frequent applications of lotion and balm. What you may not realize is that the weather change can also make your eyes dry – particularly when you are outside. When you wear sunglasses in winter, they can shield your eyes from blowing snow and ice as well as block the wind, which can cause the tears on the surface of your eyes to evaporate quicker. Having a pair of shades on in the cold can be the difference between comfortable vision and irritated eyes.
So as you are loading on your layers and getting ready to tackle the brisk air, don't forget your winter sunglasses. Protecting your eyes in the cold and snow can prevent eye health issues later and keep you more comfortable on the slopes, hills or even in the car.
