Protecting your eyes from light sensitivity

Health Hub Fortitude valley Optical

Light is everywhere. From the moment you wake up, your eyes work tirelessly to transform the surrounding light into the world you see. Just like your skin, your eyes need care too—not just in summer, but all year round. With 9 out of 10 people feeling sensitive to light, it’s important to protect your eyes every day.

What is light sensitivity and how to know if you’re affected

Do you find yourself squinting on sunny days or dimming your phone screen to ease discomfort? These are common signs of light sensitivity (also known as photophobia).

Light sensitivity affects people differently, about 3 out of 10 people experience severe discomfort from everyday light sources. Symptoms may include:

  • Squinting in bright sunlight or under artificial lighting
  • Delayed eye adjustment when moving between light and dark environments
  • Discomfort or pain triggered by harsh indoor lighting

Light sensitivity can impact your daily life, from feeling drained in bright places to struggling with outdoor activities.

Why it’s crucial to protect your eyes from light

Light sensitivity isn’t just an inconvenience—it can lead to long-term damage if left unmanaged. UV radiation, a significant component of sunlight, is particularly harmful. Here’s why you need protection:

  • UVA and UVB rays: Prolonged exposure can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration and even skin cancer around the eyelids.
  • Intensified glare: Reflections from water, concrete, or even snow can cause photokeratitis, which is like a painful sunburn for your eyes.
  • Indoor risks: Harsh artificial lights and excessive screen exposure may strain your eyes and make sensitivity worse.

Taking preventive measures not only reduces discomfort but also helps prevent serious eye health issues.

How sunglasses protect your eyes and what to look for

Sunglasses are more than a stylish accessory—they are essential for protecting your eyes from harmful light and UV rays.

Key features to look for in sunglasses:
To ensure maximum protection and comfort, consider these 4 key features when choosing your sunglasses:

  1. UV400 Protection: Always choose lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
  2. Lens categories: In Australia and New Zealand, lenses are rated by categories. For everyday protection, category 2 or 3 lenses are ideal, offering medium to high sun glare reduction and excellent UV protection.
  3. Wrap-around styles: These frames provide comprehensive coverage by blocking light from entering the sides of your glasses, offering extra protection from all angles.
  4. Polarised lenses: These reduce reflective glare from surfaces like water, roads and sand, improving visual clarity and reducing eye strain, especially during outdoor activities like driving or going to the beach.

Additional tips for selecting sunglasses:

  • Choose a comfortable fit that stays secure during movement.
  • Look for durable materials, especially if you’re active outdoors.
  • Prescription sunglasses or transition lenses can be a great option if you need vision correction while maintaining UV protection.

Transition lenses: What they are and why they matter

Transition lenses, also known as photochromic lenses, adjust automatically to changing light conditions.  They remain clear indoors, while outdoors, they darken to protect your eyes from UV rays and glare. Transition lenses are ideal for those who frequently move between indoor and outdoor environments, offering convenience and consistent protection.

Transition lenses also provide:

  • Year-round UV protection
  • Less eye strain from changing light
  • A versatile alternative to carrying sunglasses everywhere

The bottom line

Protecting your eyes from light isn’t just about comfort—it’s about long-term eye health. Whether you experience mild or severe light sensitivity, integrating protective options like polarised sunglasses or transition lenses into your routine could make a significant difference.

Remember, it’s not just about summer safety. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing and make sure you’re wearing sunnies every day, no matter the season.

For more information on eye protection, visit our experienced optometrists at the Health Hub in Fortitude Valley. Click here to book an optical appointment or call us on 1300 709 076.

 

This general information, while intended to be helpful, is not individual health advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health decisions. While the information is curated with care, its accuracy, completeness, or recency cannot be guaranteed.

Sources:

Younger Optics. (n.d.). Why NuPolar. Retrieved from https://www.youngeroptics.com

Transitions Optical. (n.d.). Transitions lenses: Light intelligent photochromic lenses. Retrieved from https://www.transitions.com

Specsavers. (n.d.). How can I protect my eyes from UV rays? Retrieved from https://www.specsavers.com.au/help-and-faqs/how-can-i-protect-my-eyes-from-uv-rays