The light from the sun eclipses by far all artificial sources. Still, light is only part of the whole electromagnetic spectrum. There are others that we cannot see. Within the unseen light spectrum exists microwaves, gamma and X-rays, and infrared and ultraviolet light. Of these, one that is heavily abundant and affects humans directly in sunlight is ultraviolet light. 

What Is UV Light?

UV light, as mentioned, is a part of the invisible spectrum of light just beyond visible violet light. It is a low-wavelength form of light. In the language of light, the lower the wavelength, the more energetic it is. In the case of UV light, it has enough energy to influence biological life. 

The sun produces three primary forms of UV light—UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC is the rarest of these three, as the ozone layer in the atmosphere absorbs all of it. 

However, UVB and UVA are abundant in the atmosphere. They are the leading cause of harmful UV radiation in the body. You can find artificial forms of this light in tanning beds, some lasers, and welding machines. 

Protecting Your Eyes From UV

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends sunglasses or eyeglasses blocking 99 to 100% of UV light. The only sunglasses that provide this kind of protection are those with a UV protection rating of UV400. 

These sunglasses block all wavelengths up to 400 nm and 75 to 90% of visible light from the sun. If you have issues with glare, you can get sunglasses paired with polarized lenses. 

Why Is UV Protection Important?

Protecting your eyes from UV light is critical to your eye health today and in the future when you are much older. According to research, by the time you turn 20, you have had a quarter of all the UV exposure you will have throughout your life. Here are some eye conditions that develop from UV exposure:
 

• Aging

UV light is the cause of about 80% of all the signs of aging on your face and skin. UV rays age you every day you are exposed to them by way of skin looseness, sunspots, and wrinkles. Moreover, they cause squinting that increases dynamic wrinkles and may also lead to crow's feet. Experts recommend UV400 protection eyewear when exposed to the sun to protect your skin.
 

• Photokeratitis

The eye's surface absorbs about 80% of all the UV rays that reach them, making it the leading cause of corneal sunburn. The best protection is UV protection sunglasses, especially if you spend time on the beach or in the sun.
 

• Cataracts

UV exposure can accelerate or cause the development of cataracts, even in young people. Despite being associated with age, clouding of the eye's lens can happen if you spend long hours outside without UV protection. 
 

• Pterygia

These growths develop on the eye's sclera and can spread to the cornea. These are not harmless growths but can impact the quality of your vision. Wearing UV protection can help prevent the development of these growths.
 

For more on UV protection with sunglasses, visit Insight Eyecare at our office in Las Vegas, Nevada. Call (702) 718-7163​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.