Sunny Side Up: Summer Eye Care Tips

While we’re quick to slather on SPF in the summer months, we often overlook another major area in need of protection—our eyes. From harmful UV rays to chlorine, sweat, and screen time, summer can take a toll on ocular health. We spoke with Toronto-based optometrist Dr. Neel Vyas about how to protect your vision this season, what to look for in sunglasses, and the underrated role hydration plays in keeping your eyes happy. Plus, he shares insights from his eye care outreach work in some of the world’s most extreme climates. —Noa Nichol

We often talk about protecting our skin in summer—why is it equally important to prioritize eye health this time of year?

Just as we take steps to protect our skin from the sun, it’s essential to safeguard our eyes during the summer when UV exposure is at its peak. Prioritizing eye health can lead to noticeably more comfortable contact lens wear, reduce day-to-day irritation caused by the sun, and help slow the progression of cataracts over time. Incorporating UV protection through quality sunglasses, is a simple yet effective way to support both immediate comfort and long-term eye health.

What should readers look for when shopping for sunglasses to ensure proper UV protection? Is lens darkness a reliable indicator?

Lens darkness alone is not a reliable indicator of UV protection. When shopping for sunglasses, it’s important to choose a pair from a reputable brand or retailer that explicitly states the lenses offer UV protection. In fact, wearing dark lenses without proper UV protection can be counterproductive, as they can allow more harmful UV rays to enter the eyes. Look for sunglasses that provide comprehensive UV shielding to effectively safeguard your eyes from potential damage this summer.

Chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen can all irritate the eyes. What steps can people take to minimize exposure or prevent discomfort?

Taking a few simple precautions can go a long way in minimizing eye irritation from chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen. Wearing protective goggles while swimming is highly effective in shielding the eyes from harmful chemicals and salt. Additionally, to prevent sunscreen from running into the eyes, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat. This helps reduce the need for applying sunscreen directly to the forehead, which, when combined with sweat, can cause it to drip into the eyes and lead to discomfort.

Many people wear contact lenses during travel or in hot, dry climates. What are some dos and don’ts for contact lens care in the summer months?

During the summer months, it’s essential to wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, particularly when wearing contact lenses. To maintain optimal eye hydration, regularly using lubricating eye drops is highly recommended, especially in hot or dry environments.

Can long-haul travel impact eye health? What tips do you have for avoiding dry or irritated eyes on the plane?

On long-haul travel days—whether flying, taking the train, or driving— dry and irritated eyes are almost guaranteed. We recommend opting for glasses over contact lenses as this can help prevent dryness and discomfort that arises from extended periods of low humidity or air conditioning. To keep your eyes comfortable, be sure to have lubricant eye drops on hand to keep your eyes hydrated throughout long travel days.

Are there certain groups, like children or older adults, who should take extra precautions to protect their eyes in the summer?

Not necessarily—everyone, regardless of age, should take the same precautions to protect their eyes during the summer months. While spending time outdoors is actually very beneficial for our eyes, proper UV protection is essential for maintaining long-term eye health.

What role does hydration play in maintaining eye comfort and health during the warmer months?

Hydration plays a key role in maintaining our eye comfort and health during the warmer months—and it’s one of the easiest steps you can take. Staying well-hydrated through the use of lubricating eye drops helps keep your eyes moist and reduces the risk of dryness and irritation.

We’re seeing more blue-light filtering sunglasses hit the market—are they helpful outdoors, or is that more of a marketing trend?

There is currently no scientific evidence to support the need for blue-light filtering glasses. When it comes to eye protection in the sun, the priority should always be UV protection.

Beyond sunglasses, are there any eye care habits or products you recommend incorporating into a summer routine?

Spending more time outdoors often leads to reduced screen time, which is a great habit for overall eye health that we can take advantage of in the summer months.

You’ve done eye care outreach in communities like Nunavut and Jamaica—how has that shaped your perspective on preventative care and access to protection, especially in harsh climates?

Working in remote communities has shown me the vital importance of preventative eye care, especially in extreme climates. These trips have given me a deep sense of gratitude for the healthcare resources we have here in Toronto and have highlighted the need for early education and support in underserved areas. I feel privileged to have worked with these communities for over 25 years and look forward to continuing this work for another 25 more. This July, I’ll be in Nunavut, and in December, I’ll return to Jamaica again. Every trip reinforces how essential it is to provide not only care but the tools and knowledge to protect vision in these challenging environments.