In an age where social media is a primary source of information for younger generations, myths about sun protection are spreading rapidly, shaping the way Gen Z perceives the importance of shielding themselves from the sun. As highlighted in a CNN article, claims like “the sun does not cause skin cancer” and “sunglasses don’t protect your eyes” are running rampant. Worryingly, these false messages are garnering millions of views and likes, directly impacting how young people approach sun protection.
Historically, younger generations have been less diligent about sun protection, and surveys show this trend continues today among Gen Z. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that only 8% of men and 26% of women under 30 said they consistently use sunscreen when outside for more than an hour on sunny days. Myths about UV rays and eye protection are perpetuating harmful habits, leading Gen Z to underestimate the real risks of UV exposure. This article will address common misconceptions about UV rays and eye health, offering scientifically-backed insights and practical tips to help Gen Z protect their vision.
What science says about UV rays and your eyes
A Science Feedback article has found that in July 2024, a widely circulated Facebook reel, which amassed nearly half a million views, claimed that wearing sunglasses increases the risk of sunburn. The video suggested that sunglasses block UV rays from reaching the eyes, preventing the body from producing melanin—a pigment that protects the skin from sunburn. This claim has also gained traction on TikTok, where users have shared the idea that blocking UV rays from the eyes reduces the body’s natural ability to “sense” UV radiation and adjust its defense. However, these claims are scientifically unfounded.
@awaken_the_wildConfession: I’ve never worn sunscreen. The truth is that sunscreen is horrible for our hormones. Our skin is the biggest organ on our bodies and it absorbs everything! This is why We have to be so very careful about what we are slathering on our precious skin. Most of the sunscreens that you will find in the stores are jam packed full of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. When absorbed into the skin they disrupt our hormone balance and not only cause issues like painful periods, but also infertility and thyroid issues. Vitamin D Deficiency is another huge issue that can be caused from sunscreen as it blocks the body’s ability to produce vitamin D, which is essential for hormonal balance. Sadly most women are deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiencies are linked to PCOS, infertility, and other hormonal imbalances. Not to mention Environmental Impact: When we swim in oceans or lakes after applying sunscreen, these chemicals can leach into the water, causing harm to marine life and disrupting delicate ecosystems. Studies have shown that oxybenzone, in particular, can contribute to coral bleaching and the decline of coral reefs. This all being said, there are sunscreens out there that are natural and deemed safe for our hormones. EWG.org is an amazing website that has lists of thousands of different beauty and skincare products that are safe for women to use and won’t hurt our hormones. I NEVER buy a new product without verifying it through EWG first! P.S The sun is also medicine ❤️ What do you think about this? Are you a fellow sun lover?♬ Enough (Miami) – Cardi B
It is not the eyes but the skin that senses UV radiation and initiates a protective response against sunburn. When UV rays penetrate the skin, they stimulate skin cells to produce melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning. This increase in melanin is a sign of skin damage, and its role is to help protect cells from further harm. The eyes, on the other hand, play no role in this process. Skin exposed to UV radiation will produce melanin whether or not a person is wearing sunglasses.
Sunglasses don’t increase the risk of sunburn or vitamin D deficiency. Instead, they actually prevent several other health problems related to UV exposure. Research in the Frontiers of Ophthalmology indicates that prolonged UV exposure is a risk factor for cataracts, a condition where the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, impairing its ability to focus. Irene Kuo, an associate professor of ophthalmology with the Wilmer Eye Institute, further highlights that UV rays can cause corneal damage, increase the risk of macular degeneration, and lead to decreased vision over time.
How to protect yourself
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is one of the most effective ways to shield your eyes from sun damage. To ensure total defense, choose sunglasses labeled as providing 100% UV or UV400 protection. This means that they block both UVA and UVB rays. Top eyewear brands, including Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Coach, available on Sunglass Hut, adhere to this standard. Consider wraparound or oversized styles like the Oakley Latch Panel and Coach HC8408U CW195, which provide full coverage and prevent UV rays from entering from the sides. For added protection, combine sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat like the Reversible Ultra Wide Brim Cap by Solbari.
You can also keep your eyes healthy by supplementing sun protection habits with an eye-friendly diet. For example, avocados are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that are essential for eye health. These compounds protect the eyes from harmful light and oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts.
In summary, UV rays pose significant risks to our eyes, with the potential to cause irreversible damage such as cataracts, corneal damage, and macular degeneration. In the face of viral misinformation that downplays the importance of eye protection, Gen Z must be informed about the dangers of UV exposure and the protective measures they can take.
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