Summer means sunshine, outdoor play, and family adventures. It also means greater exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause long-term damage to the eyes if not properly protected. For children, whose eyes are still developing, UV safety is especially important. Eye care professionals have a unique opportunity to educate parents about how early protection can make a lifelong difference.
At Allentown Optical, we know that patient education starts with clear, practical conversations. Helping parents understand the risks and solutions around UV exposure is one of the most effective ways to promote healthy vision habits early on.
Why Kids Are More Vulnerable
Children’s eyes are not just smaller versions of adult eyes. Their crystalline lenses are clearer and allow more UV radiation to reach the retina. Because they spend more time outdoors and are less likely to wear protective eyewear, children receive up to three times more UV exposure than adults by the time they are teenagers. Over time, this exposure can contribute to conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea).
Parents are often surprised to learn that UV damage accumulates gradually. Even short periods of unprotected exposure can contribute to long-term risk. The earlier a child begins wearing proper sun protection, the greater their chances of maintaining healthy vision into adulthood.
Making UV Protection Part of the Conversation
The best way to talk about UV safety with parents is to make it part of a routine discussion during exams or frame selection. Try starting with simple facts:
- Children’s eyes absorb more UV light than adults’ eyes.
- Regular sunglasses without UV protection can actually increase risk by dilating pupils.
- Quality prescription and non-prescription lenses with UV coatings protect eyes year-round, not just during summer.
By framing UV safety as part of total eye health rather than an optional accessory, you help parents see it as a medical priority.
Recommend the Right Products
When recommending eyewear for children, emphasize both function and comfort. Lenses should block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays and fit properly to prevent light from entering around the edges. Polycarbonate lenses are a great choice because they provide UV protection, impact resistance, and lightweight comfort for active kids.
For children who need prescription eyewear, encourage a dedicated pair of prescription sunglasses or lenses with built-in UV protection. Transitions and photochromic lenses can also be practical for busy families, providing indoor and outdoor protection in one pair.
Educating Beyond the Exam Room
Providing take-home materials or signage in your office can help reinforce the message. Simple visuals showing how UV rays affect the eye or quick tips for outdoor safety can go a long way. Remind parents that cloudy days still carry UV risk and that hats, wide brims, and shade add another layer of defense.
Helping Kids Build Lifelong Habits
Teaching UV awareness early encourages habits that will last a lifetime. When children understand that sunglasses are just as important as sunscreen, they are more likely to wear them consistently.
Allentown Optical supports eye care professionals in offering high-quality lenses and coatings designed to protect young eyes. Together, we can help families make smart choices that keep children seeing clearly and safely, season after season.
Contact Allentown Optical today to learn how we can become your dedicated optical lab partner.