How to Treat and Prevent Sunburned Eyes

How Sunburned Eyes Occur

The sun emits both UVA and UVB rays, both of which can damage your eyes. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the eye and reach the retina, contributing to long-term conditions such as macular degeneration. UVB rays, which primarily affect the surface of the eye, impact the cornea and lens and are known to be involved in the formation of cataracts. Excessive UV exposure can result in sunburned eyes.

Unlike the skin, which has melanin to offer some protection against UV radiation, the eyes have little to no defense. The cornea, lens, and retina are all vulnerable to UV light. The cornea, being the eye's outermost layer, is typically the first to be impacted by UV exposure, resulting in inflammation and discomfort. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also cause the lens to become cloudy, raising the risk of cataracts if not adequately protected.

The risk of sunburned eyes is even higher in environments where UV rays are reflected. Surfaces like water, sand, and snow can reflect UV rays, amplifying their intensity. For example, snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, making outdoor activities like skiing or snowboarding riskier if you’re not wearing proper eye protection. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can pass through the clouds and still affect your eyes, so it’s important to stay aware and take the necessary precautions. 

Signs That Your Eyes Are Sunburned

Just as your skin displays clear signs of sunburn after prolonged sun exposure, your eyes can also show symptoms of sunburn, medically known as photokeratitis. The severity of these symptoms can vary, from mild discomfort to more severe pain and vision problems, depending on the intensity of the UV radiation your eyes were exposed to. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential for receiving the appropriate treatment and preventing lasting eye damage. Common signs of sunburned eyes include:

• Redness and irritation 

• A burning or stinging sensation 

• Increased light sensitivity 

• Blurred vision 

• Watery eyes 

In more severe cases, sunburned eyes may lead to:

• Swollen eyelids 

• Visual disturbances like halos around lights 

• Pain and discomfort 

Treating Sunburned Eyes

The good news is that sunburned eyes are typically temporary and can be managed with simple home remedies. Prompt action is crucial to alleviate discomfort, prevent further irritation, and speed up the healing process. Here are some effective ways to treat photokeratitis and ease the symptoms caused by UV exposure:

Immediate Relief

• Cool Compress: Applying a cool, damp cloth to your closed eyelids can soothe the burning sensation and reduce swelling. The cool temperature helps calm inflammation and relieve discomfort. Be sure that the compress is not too cold, as extreme temperatures can worsen irritation. 

• Lubricating Eye Drops: Use preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to hydrate the eyes, wash away any lingering irritants, and relieve dryness from UV exposure. These drops can offer immediate relief for irritated eyes. 

• Resting Your Eyes: Reduce screen time, bright lights, and any activities that could strain your eyes. Resting in a dark, quiet room can help decrease light sensitivity and promote faster recovery. It's crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can cause further irritation to the delicate eye surface. 

Medical Treatment

If symptoms are more severe or don’t improve with at-home care, you may need professional medical treatment, including:

• Prescription Eye Drops: For significant discomfort or inflammation, your eye care professional may prescribe anti-inflammatory or steroid eye drops to reduce swelling and support the healing process. 

• Antibiotic Ointments: If an infection develops or there’s a risk of infection due to irritation, your doctor may recommend antibiotic ointments to help prevent and treat infection while aiding recovery. 

• Follow-Up Care: If your symptoms persist for more than a couple of days or worsen, scheduling a follow-up appointment with your eye care provider is important. Prolonged or worsening symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires further medical attention. 

Avoiding Further Irritation

While your eyes are healing, it's important to minimize factors that could worsen your symptoms:

• Wear Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from additional UV exposure by wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection when outdoors. This will help reduce light sensitivity and protect your eyes during the healing process. 

• Avoid Smoke and Dust: Smoke, dust, and other environmental irritants can aggravate the symptoms of sunburned eyes. Try to avoid these irritants while your eyes recover. 

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining hydration and supporting tear production, which helps alleviate dryness and is crucial for the recovery of sunburned eyes. 

How to Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

The best way to avoid the discomfort and lasting damage caused by sunburned eyes is through proper prevention. Just like you protect your skin from harmful UV rays, your eyes require similar protection. Below are some essential steps you can take to keep your eyes safe from sunburn and minimize UV exposure: 

1. Wear Sunglasses with Full UV Protection

The most effective way to protect your eyes from sunburn is by wearing sunglasses that offer 100% protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Not all sunglasses are made equally, so it’s important to choose lenses that block both types of harmful UV radiation. Look for larger or wraparound frames for additional protection from UV rays that can enter from the sides. Polarized lenses are a great option too, as they reduce glare from reflective surfaces, providing added comfort and protection. 

2. Use a Wide-Brimmed Hat or Visor

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or visor adds another layer of defense, blocking sunlight from directly hitting your face and eyes. This extra shade helps reduce UV exposure while you’re outdoors, whether you’re hiking, gardening, or just walking around. The protection a hat offers is essential in keeping your eyes safe from harmful sun damage. 

3. Stay in the Shade During Peak Sun Hours

UV rays are at their strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s crucial to minimize your outdoor activities during these hours. If you need to be outside, seek out shaded areas or use structures like umbrellas, tents, or trees to shield yourself from direct sunlight. Wearing sunglasses and a hat during these peak hours ensures maximum protection from harmful UV exposure. 

4. Be Cautious in Reflective Environments

Reflective surfaces such as water, snow, and sand can bounce UV rays back into your eyes, amplifying your exposure. It’s important to wear sunglasses with UV protection when you’re around these reflective surfaces. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or enjoying a day by the water, protect your eyes from additional UV radiation. Remember, reflective surfaces significantly increase the risk of sunburned eyes, so always take extra precautions.

5. Wear UV-Blocking Contact Lenses

For contact lens wearers, opting for UV-blocking lenses can provide an extra layer of protection for your eyes while outdoors. However, UV-blocking contact lenses should not be a substitute for sunglasses, as they do not protect the surrounding areas such as your eyelids and skin. For optimal protection, pair UV-blocking contact lenses with high-quality sunglasses.

6. Get Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are key to maintaining your eye health and preventing long-term UV damage. Your eye care provider can detect early signs of UV-related issues, such as cataracts or macular degeneration, and offer guidance on how to protect your eyes. If you’re concerned about sunburned eyes or prolonged UV exposure, schedule an eye exam with your eye care provider to discuss preventive strategies.