How to Treat Sunburn on Your Eyes

How to Treat Sunburn on Your Eyes

Dealing with a sunburn on your eyes, also known as photokeratitis, can be a real pain—literally. We all love soaking up the sun, but sometimes we forget to protect our eyes, leaving them vulnerable to the sun's harmful UV rays. Whether you've spent a little too much time at the beach without sunglasses or forgot to wear protective eyewear while skiing, a sunburn on your eyes can leave you feeling uncomfortable and irritated.

Causes and Symptoms

So, what exactly causes a sunburn on your eyes? Well, just like the rest of your skin, your eyes can get sunburned when they're exposed to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This can happen when you spend extended periods of time outdoors without wearing sunglasses or goggles that offer UV protection. Certain activities, like skiing, snowboarding, and spending time on the water, can also increase your risk of developing a sunburn on your eyes because of the reflection of UV rays off of surfaces like snow and water. Symptoms of a sunburn on your eyes can include redness, pain, swelling, and a gritty or burning sensation. You may also experience sensitivity to light and excessive tearing. In severe cases, you may even develop temporary vision loss.

Treatment and Relief

If you find yourself dealing with a sunburn on your eyes, the first step is to get out of the sun and into a shady or indoor area. Resting your eyes and avoiding further exposure to UV rays will help prevent further damage and promote healing. You can also apply a cold compress to your closed eyelids to help soothe the burn and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort, while artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help keep your eyes moist and comfortable. It's important to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can further irritate them and potentially cause more damage.

Seeking Medical Attention

In most cases, a sunburn on your eyes will heal on its own within a few days to a week. However, if your symptoms are severe or persist for more than a few days, it's important to see a doctor. They can evaluate your eyes and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include prescription eye drops or ointments to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Prevention Tips

Of course, the best way to treat a sunburn on your eyes is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Whenever you're outdoors, especially during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., be sure to wear sunglasses or goggles that offer 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays, and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. If you're participating in activities that increase your risk of eye sunburn, such as skiing, snowboarding, or spending time on the water, invest in a pair of wraparound sunglasses or goggles with UV protection. And don't forget to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you're sweating or swimming.

By taking steps to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, you can avoid the discomfort and irritation of a sunburn on your eyes and enjoy all the outdoor activities you love without worrying about damaging your vision. So next time you head outside, don't forget to protect your peepers!