While consumers claim to be aware of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and its implications, few understand the impact on eyes and options for protection, and there are misconceptions among practitioners about the time of day and year when the risk to the eyes from UV exposure is greatest. Responses of ocular tissues to UV radiation, the unique aspects of ocular exposure and the various methods of eye protection have been a focus for recent research and scientific review, and evidence shows contact lenses with UV blocking help protect against UV transmission. This article reviews recent studies in this area and, in particular, the role of UV-blocking contact lenses and highlights the need to improve communication methodologies on UV radiation and the eye.