Every day whether it is sunny or cloudy, we are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Since UV radiation is invisible, most of us don’t even realize the amount of exposure we receive daily.

Just as the sun can damage your skin, it can also burn and damage your eyes—resulting in “photokeratitis.” The symptoms of redness, sensitivity to light, and tears usually clear up quickly, and do not cause permanent damage to your eyes. However, unprotected exposure over long periods of time can increase your risks of cataracts, macular degeneration, and retina damage.

The solution is easy. Wear sunglasses! Avoid the cumulative impact of damage to your eyes from daily exposure to the UV radiation by wearing sunglasses with a UV protection level of 99–100%. Take precautions! Protect your vision! Wear your sunglasses daily!

There is scientific evidence that most people can benefit from at least 10–15 minutes of exposure to bright sunshine every day. Research has shown that people feel better when they are exposed to bright light. Our bodies need sunlight much like they require nutrients in order to perform optimally. Sun exposure is actually the best way to help the body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiencies have been associated with depression, cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.

Since the amount of sun exposure needed is not an exact science—practice caution…and remember that for the majority of the population, a little sun exposure during the nonpeak hours will help us with disease prevention.