UV Blocking Contact Lenses are Not a Substitute for Sunglasses

There has been a serious problem developing with contact lens wearers. Because contact lenses are designed with UV blocking protection, many feel that they can be substitutes for the need for sunglasses or other sun blocking eyewear. As we have come to learn, protecting your eyes from harmful ultraviolent rays is just as important as protecting your skin with suntan lotion.

Extended exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of developing eye disorders like cataracts. Everyone is at risk from eye damage from the sun. UV rays can reach us from not only directly above, buy also by reflection from waters, sand and pavement. It is important to have sunglasses that have proper UV protection, regardless of whether you are wearing UV protected contact lenses.

UV-absorbing Acuvue contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV-absorbing eyewear such as UV-absorbing goggles or sunglasses because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. You should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed.

UV blocking contact lenses are designed to compliment sunglasses or other protective eyewear. Clinical studies have not proven that they can act as a substitute. And is no proof that they reduce the risk of developing cataracts or other eye disorders.

When out in the sun wear sunglasses that adequately cover your entire eye. Check the UV blocking level of your sunglasses to make sure they are good enough to give you the necessary care.