21 June 2021

Summer eye health tips

AMD Cataract Children Contact lenses Myopia Campaign

We provide advice on protecting the public's vision and eye health this summer. Scroll down for graphics you can use to help share our message.

Our advice

As schools break up, and many people prepare to set off on their summer holidays, The College of Optometrists has issued tips to remind the public that your eyes need to be protected, even if you are not travelling to a hotter country.

The College has issued the following advice to safeguard eye health and vision over the summer months:

  • If you’re spending more time outdoors, make sure you and your children have good quality sunglasses with UV protection. Look out for the British Standard (BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013), the CE or UKCA mark
  • Hats are not just a fashion accessory, they are also a great way to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun! Add an extra layer of protection this summer by wearing a hat with a wide brim or a sun visor to keep the eyes comfortable
  • Watertight goggles are a great way to protect your eyes while swimming. They can help shield your eyes from infection causing microbes often found in pools. If you wear contact lenses, we recommend you take them out before swimming.
  • There is evidence that encouraging children to spend time outdoors could reduce the onset of myopia (short sightedness) so do try make sure they have some time playing outside each day.

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What our Clinical Adviser says

Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists explains: “The summer is finally here and hopefully this lovely weather will continue for the many people who will be spending time outdoors in the UK. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light has been linked to eye conditions, including cataract and macular degeneration, which can lead to sight loss. It is especially important for parents to protect their children’s eyes, as they are more susceptible to ultraviolet (UV) rays due to their larger pupils and clearer lenses. The good news is that good quality sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat can give you the protection your eyes need.”

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