How Can I Care for My Eyes in Summer?

With summer in full swing, protecting your eyes matters more than ever. A little protection now goes a long way. It lowers your risk of problems like cataracts later on and helps you avoid long-term damage to your eyes. Here are six summer eye safety tips to keep in mind. 

1. Wear sunglasses to block UV 

It sounds obvious, but sunglasses are one of the best things you can do for your eyes. Choose wisely, though. A larger pair with wrap-around frames protects you from more angles. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. 

2. Add a hat 

Take your protection a step further with a hat when you are out in the sun. Wide-brimmed hats, visors, and big-billed caps keep the sun off your face and eyes, even in the shade, where UV rays can still reach you. 

3. Be careful with sunscreen near your eyes 

Sunscreen is a must in the sun, but if it seeps into your eyes it can sting and irritate them. It will not cause lasting damage, but the chemicals can burn the surface of the eye and leave you sore for a day or two. If sunscreen does get in your eyes, try this: 

  • Take out your contacts if you wear them. 

  • Flush with lubricating eye drops, or water if that is all you have. 

  • Rinse every hour or two with preservative-free drops. 

  • Skip contacts for two days, then start with a fresh pair. 

  • If the irritation lasts more than two days, see your eye doctor. 

4. Understand what UV does 

Knowing how UV rays affect your eyes and skin makes it easier to protect both. A few quick facts: 

  • The front of the eye absorbs most of the UV radiation that reaches it. 

  • UV rays come at you from all directions: the sun, the ground, water, snow, and more. 

5. Eat for your eyes 

Fill your kitchen with foods that help your eyes handle summer stress. Certain vitamins and minerals support eye health and help guard against sun damage. Look for foods rich in vitamins C and E, plus lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega fatty acids. A few to get you started: 

  • Carrots (vitamin A) 

  • Leafy greens (lutein and zeaxanthin) 

  • Eggs, especially the yolks (lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc) 

  • Berries (vitamin C) 

  • Almonds (vitamin E) 

  • Fatty fish (omega fatty acids) 

6. Book your yearly eye exam 

Even if you take great care of your eyes and stay on top of UV protection, regular exams are still the best way to keep your eyes healthy. At VSP Individual Vision Plans, our plans are convenient, flexible, and built around you. If you do not have vision insurance yet, learn about the benefits and savings of a VSP plan, or build one with the VSP Individual Vision Plan Selector today. 

Ready for the next step? Take a look around VSP Direct, compare VSP Individual Vision Plans, or let the VSP Individual Vision Plan Selector match you with a plan in a couple of minutes. You can also see everything a plan includes on the Benefits & Savings page. 

Sponsored by VSP. Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plans' social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Reviewed by Chris A. Smiley, O.D.

How Can I Care for My Eyes in Summer?

Chris Smiley, O.D. is the owner of Vision Professionals, a multi-location private practice in Central Ohio. With more than 25 years of experience, he focuses on comprehensive eye care, early detection of eye disease, dry eye, contact lens fitting, and helping patients maintain clear, comfortable vision.

In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Smiley is a VSP Vision Care provider and serves as a VSP Vision Ambassador, where he works with other doctors to improve patient access to care and promote eye health awareness. He is passionate about helping patients understand the connection between eye health and overall health.

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