From UV rays to allergies: 5 ways to protect your eyes this summer

(BPT) – When the sky is blue and the sun is shining, you’re not one to stay indoors. Instead, you plan on fully enjoying the beautiful weather by planning backyard barbecues, hitting the beach and simply relaxing out on the patio. As you apply sunscreen to prepare for a few hours outdoors, remember your eyes require protection as well. These five summer eye safety tips protect your vision so you can keep the fun going all summer long.

Wear a hat as extra UV protection

You already have UV-protected sunglasses to prevent cataracts and eye cancer, so double up on both eye and skin protection by wearing a hat, as well. Any type of hat that has a wide brim, whether it be a baseball cap or floppy hat, can help block UV rays and enhance your overall sun protection.

Put on goggles when swimming in the pool

Chlorine and saline, which are used to disinfect pools, can irritate the eye, causing dryness, redness and itching. To protect your eyes from chemicals, wear quality goggles every time you visit the local pool or swim laps at the fitness center. If you are unable to wear goggles or if the goggles you have start leaking, be sure to rinse your eyes with fresh water after swimming.

Know the difference between allergies and dry eye – and when to visit the eye doctor

It’s easy to mistake dry eyes for allergies, especially during the summer. If you are experiencing burning, redness, itching and tearing, make an appointment with your eye doctor to get the relief you need. A yearly eye exam ensures your eyes are treated properly, and it helps you stay on top of any vision changes that may have occurred over the past 12 months. Even on a tight budget, you can get affordable access to high-quality eye care by enrolling in a vision plan through a provider like VSP, that offers individual and family plans online.

Avoid rubbing your eyes

Your hands are covered in bacteria that can cause eye infections, such as conjunctivitis. Rubbing your eyes can also worsen eye allergies if your fingers have touched any object covered in dust or pollen. When your eyes are irritated and you’re tempted to rub them, try other forms of relief, such as eye drops, to reduce dryness instead.

Wash your face to remove makeup each night

Similar to swimming in pools without goggles, going to bed with makeup can cause eye infections and irritation. Always wash off eye makeup before going to bed, and use a clean towel each time to prevent transferring the bacteria you removed the night before. It’s also a good idea to check expiration dates on beauty products such as mascara, eye liner and eye shadow, so you can replace old makeup that has expired.

When our eyes feel dry or are infected, it’s difficult to enjoy the summer season no matter how gorgeous the weather is outside. Follow these tips to keep your eyes healthy and feeling great, and if you need an eye exam or glasses, explore VSP Direct to find plans that will lower your out-of-pocket costs.