Do you really need sun for vitamin D?
Regular sunlight exposure is the best way to get vitamin D. Just 10 minutes a day of sun exposure should be enough to get your recommended daily allowance. In places like the UK where there is very little sunlight through the winter, it’s recommended that people take a daily vitamin D supplement during this time to ensure they don’t become deficient.
Although sunlight exposure is very necessary, too much can be damaging for our health, causing everything from a higher risk of skin cancer to cataracts.
Wear sunglasses
Too much sun exposure can cause cataracts, sunburnt eyes, growths on the eye and even eye cancer. It’s important to always wear sunglasses outside, even on overcast days, as UV radiation can penetrate cloud. At Feel Good Contacts, all our sunglasses protect against 100% of UVA and UVB rays, so you can stay safe in the sun.
Prescription sunglasses
To get the best of both worlds, you can turn your glasses into prescription sunglasses, simply choose your preferred glasses frame from our site, enter your prescription (or send it to us after your purchase) and then select the ‘full tint’ option at checkout.
Transitions lenses
Transitions lenses, also known as photochromic lenses, will allow you to walk around inside with clear lenses and enjoy the UV protection of tinted lenses when you step outside.
Gradient lenses
Gradient sunglasses are a versatile accessory. They have a darker tint at the top of the lens and graduate towards a clear lens at the bottom. Gradient sunglasses are perfect for driving as they protect your eyes from the sun overhead whilst allowing you to see the road in front clearly.
Stay in the shade
You can have fun in the sun without being directly in sunlight. Wide-brim hats and parasols are great options for keeping the shade close by. Some sun exposure is good for us as this is how the body obtains vitamin D, but a small amount of exposure to the sun is all you need.
You should avoid being in the sun between 11am and 3pm, as this is the time of day when the sun can cause the most damage. Even when you are wearing sunscreen, remaining in the shade for large portions of the day will help you to avoid burning. The danger of sunburn is the that it can increase your risk of developing health issues such as skin cancer, and the more you get burnt, the higher your risk becomes.
Wear sunscreen
You should always apply broad spectrum SPF to all exposed skin, at least 30 minutes before sun exposure. ‘Broad spectrum’ means that the SPF will protect you against UVA and UVB rays. There are many formulations of sun cream now available, including roll on, spray, cream and aerosol. Just remember to apply enough product (about two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin). If you don’t apply enough product, then you won’t get the full amount of protection.
Do people with dark skin need sunscreen?
There is a common myth that dark skin is somehow immune to the harmful effects of the sun, but this isn’t true. It’s important that everyone wears SPF. Although darker skin is slightly better protected against sun-induced damage, using SPF is still just as important. Darker skins can still burn, and SPF should be applied before any prolonged sun exposure, particularly in countries that have a sunnier climate than the UK because the UV rays can be much stronger there.
Keep eyes hydrated
Warmer weather can make your eyes feel dry, especially if you wear contact lenses or suffer from seasonal allergies. Soothe dry and/or irritated eyes with some eye drops such as our comfi Soothe Drops. This gentle formula replicates your natural tears and can be used with or without contact lenses.
Is the sun safe?
With the right protection, sun exposure can be safe and enjoyable for everyone. There are certain precautions you should take before you go out in the sun such as wearing sunglasses, applying/re-applying SPF and staying in the shade during the middle of the day.
