Most people remember to protect their skin from the sun, but the eyes also need protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Excessive UV exposure can damage the delicate surface of the eye and cause a temporary condition known as photokeratitis, often described as a sunburn of the eyes.
Photokeratitis occurs when too much UV light damages the outer layer of the cornea, the clear surface at the front of the eye. The conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye, can also be affected.
How Can Your Eyes Get Sunburned?
The eyes can be exposed to UV radiation from direct sunlight as well as light reflected from bright surfaces. Spending time around water, sand, snow or concrete can increase exposure because these surfaces reflect UV rays toward the eyes.
UV exposure can also be stronger at higher elevations. Tanning beds, UV lamps and welding without appropriate eye protection are additional sources of potentially harmful UV radiation.
What Does Eye Sunburn Feel Like?
Symptoms of photokeratitis commonly affect both eyes and may not appear immediately. They can begin around 6 to 12 hours after exposure and usually improve within 24 to 48 hours.
Possible symptoms include:
- A gritty sensation, as if sand is in the eyes
- Burning or eye pain
- Redness and swelling
- Excessive watering
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Seeing halos around lights
- Eyelid twitching
In rare cases, temporary vision loss or changes in color perception can occur.
How to Soothe Sunburned Eyes
Most cases of photokeratitis heal naturally within a day or two. During recovery, people can take several steps to reduce discomfort:
- Avoid rubbing the eyes.
- Place a cool, damp cloth over closed eyes.
- Remove contact lenses until the eyes have healed.
- Rest the eyes and stay away from bright sunlight.
- Preservative-free artificial tears may help with dryness.
- An over-the-counter pain reliever may help if it is safe for the individual to take.
Eye Sunburn vs. Solar Retinopathy
Eye sunburn should not be confused with solar retinopathy. Photokeratitis affects the surface of the eye and is usually temporary. Solar retinopathy occurs when someone looks directly at the sun without proper eye protection, damaging the retina deeper inside the eye. It can be more serious and may last considerably longer.
How to Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays
The simplest way to protect your eyes is to wear sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection or are labeled UV400. Sunglasses that fit closely around the eyes or have wraparound frames can provide additional protection.
A wide-brimmed hat can offer another layer of protection. Sunglasses should be worn even on cloudy days because UV radiation can still reach the eyes. Extra care is needed around water, snow and sand and during the middle of the day when sunlight is strongest.
Polarized lenses can reduce glare, but polarization alone does not guarantee UV protection. The sunglasses should still specifically indicate adequate UVA and UVB protection.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Not every painful or red eye is caused by sun exposure. Medical attention should be sought if there is severe pain, vision loss or worsening vision, pain affecting only one eye, an eye injury or chemical exposure, or if symptoms continue for more than 48 hours.
The Bottom Line
Your eyes can indeed become sunburned after excessive UV exposure. Although photokeratitis is usually temporary, repeated UV exposure can be harmful to eye health. Wearing properly rated sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat is a simple way to protect your eyes whenever you are outdoors.
