How to Keep Your Eyes Safe and Comfortable During Summer Adventures

Summer is the season for outdoor activities, travel, and soaking up the sun. However, for contact lens wearers, the combination of heat, sunlight, and water can pose challenges. With the right precautions, you can protect your eyes and enjoy all your summer adventures without discomfort. Here’s how to keep your eyes safe and comfortable throughout the summer.

Summer Challenges for Contact Lens Wearers

During summer, increased exposure to sunlight, high temperatures, and water activities can affect your contact lenses and eye health. UV rays can harm your eyes, while heat and humidity may lead to dryness or irritation. Additionally, water in pools, lakes, and oceans can introduce harmful bacteria to your lenses, increasing the risk of infection.

Tips for Protecting Your Eyes in Summer

Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection

Even if your contact lenses offer UV protection, it’s important to wear sunglasses for additional defense against harmful rays. Look for sunglasses labeled with 100% UVA and UVB protection to shield your eyes from sun damage.

Switch to Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily disposable lenses are an excellent option for summer. They eliminate the need for cleaning and storage, reducing the risk of contamination. After a day at the beach or by the pool, you can simply discard them and start fresh the next day. Explore daily disposable lenses at Global Lens to find the perfect option for your summer adventures.

Avoid Wearing Lenses in Water

Contact lenses should not be worn in pools, hot tubs, or natural water sources, as water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses. If swimming is unavoidable, consider wearing swim goggles to protect your eyes or use daily disposable lenses that can be discarded immediately after.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can affect your eyes, making them feel dry and irritated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and eyes hydrated, especially in hot weather.

Use Rewetting Drops

Carry rewetting drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers to keep your eyes comfortable during outdoor activities. These drops can help combat dryness caused by wind, heat, or long hours in the sun.

Take Breaks from Lenses

On particularly long or active days, consider giving your eyes a break by switching to glasses. This allows your eyes to breathe and recover from extended lens wear.

Caring for Your Contact Lenses in Summer

Clean and Store Lenses Properly

If you’re using reusable lenses, make sure to clean and store them properly every night. Use fresh solution to remove any debris or contaminants picked up during the day.

Protect Lenses from Heat

Avoid leaving your contact lenses, lens case, or solution in hot environments, such as in a car or by the pool. Heat can affect the integrity of your lenses and solution.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you experience redness, irritation, or discomfort that persists despite following these tips, consult an eye care professional. They can recommend treatments or lenses better suited for your summer activities.

Conclusion

Summer is full of opportunities for fun and adventure, and contact lenses shouldn’t hold you back. By taking precautions like wearing sunglasses, staying hydrated, and switching to daily disposables, you can keep your eyes safe and comfortable all season long.