Debunking myths about UV light

Many people think they are being diligent about avoiding the sun during peak hours in the summer months, wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight, and slathering on sunscreen at the beach or pool. While these are all good ideas, practising these steps might lead people to a false sense of security, at least when it comes to their eyes. The reality is that the eyes are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation all year round. During certain months, that exposure peaks at unexpected hours, such as early morning, when many people think it is safe to be outdoors without sun protection.

UV radiation from the sun is divided into three wavelength bands: UVA (315-400nm), UVB (280-315nm), and UVC (100–280nm). The atmosphere’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays and about 90 per cent of UVB rays, but most UVA rays reach the earth’s surface unabsorbed. UV radiation is a major factor in the development of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the UK, while it is also one of the most preventable types of cancer. UVA radiation contributes to skin ageing and wrinkles. UVB plays an important role in production of vitamin D through skin absorption, but too much UVB exposure has damaging effects, including sunburn. Both UVA and UVB can cause cellular damage leading to programmed cell death, or apoptosis.1