Everyday Eye Health

Summer eye safety: 6 ways to protect vision while having fun

Bright sun, air-conditioned environments and screen time can harm or strain eyes in the summer. But a few simple changes to routine can help prevent damage.

Woman playing beach tennis

Long, summer days mean time for outdoor fun — whether that’s swimming at the beach, biking or just lazing around the backyard. 

All that outdoor fun can boost moods and activity levels. That’s a major perk of warmer weather. But sun, water and outdoor play can also bring risks for eye health. 

The good news? A few simple habits can help protect vision all season long. Learn why summer eye safety matters and what steps can help keep eyes protected.

Why summer eye safety matters

There are lots of factors that can affect the eyes in the summertime, both short- and long-term. 

The sun's rays. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are stronger during the summer. Too much UV exposure over time can raise the risk of eye problems like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.1

UV rays can also cause a painful sunburn on the clear front part of the eye. This is called keratitis.2 Over time, they may also cause growths on the white part of the eye and raise the risk of skin cancer on the eyelids.3

Water can reflect UV rays. Spending time on a boat or relaxing by the pool can increase UV exposure because water reflects sunlight. In some cases, it can double the amount of UV rays that reach the eyes.4

Swimming hazards. Chlorine and saltwater may also irritate the eyes or lead to dryness.5, 6 Swimming in fresh water, like lakes or ponds, may trigger bacterial eye infections.5  

Dry air conditioning and screen time. When it’s too hot and humid, people go indoors. But the dry air from air conditioners and spending hours on digital devices can also harm the eyes.

Outdoor sports and activities. Falls and blows to the eye can also damage eyesight. Those risks increase when people spend time playing sports or when kids are in summer camps.

Fortunately, simple steps can help protect eye health. Protective eyewear and healthy habits can go a long way. Here are a few tips.

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1. Wear sunglasses that block UV rays

Sunglasses are one of the best ways to protect eyes outdoors. To make sure they are effective: 

  • Look for sunglasses that are labeled UV400, which block 100% of UV rays.5 
  • Wraparound styles protect the eyes from all angles.1 At the very least, sunglasses should fit close to the face and head.2
  • Polarized lenses are best for driving, cycling and water activities like boating and fishing.
  • For people who wear glasses, prescription sunglasses can make it easier to see on bright, sunny days.

UV protection is important even on cloudy days, since UV rays can still pass through clouds.1 If people are going to be out in the sun during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM), it’s a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat.1, 5  Look for hats with a 3-inch brim all the way around.1

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2. Use protective eyewear

Sunglasses aren’t the only way to safeguard the eyes from harm. Other types of eyewear can protect the eyes too.

Goggles. If swimming is a favorite summertime activity, it’s a good idea to use goggles. Pool water contains chlorine, a chemical that may irritate the eyes, cause dry eyes or cloud the vision.6 Salt- or freshwater can also cause infections and irritate the eyes.5,6  Goggles make it safe for people to open their eyes underwater. They also safeguard the eyes from water droplets.

Sports glasses. Regular eyeglasses won’t protect the eyes from injury when playing sports. It’s a good idea for both adults and children to use sports glasses, especially when playing racquet sports (tennis, pickleball) or sports involving balls. Look for impact-resistant eyewear that’s labeled as ASTM F803 approved.7 

3. Be mindful of contact lenses 

To prevent infections and irritated eyes, it’s a good idea for contact lens wearers to:2

  • Take contacts out when they’re swimming, showering or in a hot tub
  • If people insist on wearing their contact lenses, they need to wear airtight goggles
  • If contact lenses get water on them, they need to be thrown away

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4. Use artificial tears

All the elements of summer can bring on dry eyes or make dry eyes worse. That includes air-conditioning, wind, sand, saltwater and sun.1,5 To keep eyes lubricated and comfortable, use artificial tears. Or consider the preservative-free type, which may be gentler for the eyes.5 An eye care provider can recommend some brands. 

Another way to keep eyes moist? Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is good for the body and the eyes.1

5. Take breaks from screens

If it’s too hot to spend time outdoors, then many folks will stay inside. And that means spending time on digital devices. All that screen time may take a toll on the eyes. This may lead to dry eyes, blurred vision or headaches.

The “20-20-20 rule” is a simple way to reduce strain. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to help rest the eyes.1

6. Watch for signs of eye issues

The eyes can get sunburned, infected or irritated during the summer. Don’t ignore these symptoms:5,6

  • Red, swollen eyes
  • Dry, irritated eyes
  • Blurred or cloudy vision
  • Pain 

If symptoms do not improve or become worse, it’s a good idea to see an eye care provider. They’ll be able to diagnose the problem and treat it.5 

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Sources:

  1. Protecting Your Eyes: Summer Eye Care Tips Warren General Hospital. 
  2. The heat is on: Ensure patients’ protective eyewear is too American Optometric Association, May 22, 2024.
  3. Summer is coming Prevent Blindness
  4. Protecting Your Eyes This Summer Schmidt College of Medicine/Florida Atlantic University, July 8, 2024.
  5. 8 Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy This Summer Tufts Medicine, July 1, 2024. 
  6. How to Keep Chlorine Out of Your Eyes This Summer Cleveland Clinic, June 20, 2025.
  7. Sports Eye Safety Prevent Blindness

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