There’s no feeling like the thrill of taking your surfboard to the shore and paddling through the ocean waves. But like any sport, surfing has its dangers. Reefs, your board, and even the water can hurt a surfer of any level if they’re not careful. Another major damage dealer is the sun, with its harsh UV rays beating down on you while you’re making your way through barrels or catching your breath on the sand. Most surfers are aware of the sun’s dangers on the skin, such as the increased risk of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of the disease in surfers and other watersport athletes, with a rate of 71%. However, your eyes are also susceptible to UV ray damage, and skimping out on protection can increase your chances of developing eye conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration.
This summer or on your next surf trip, don’t compromise on eye protection. Here’s how as a surfer you can take care of their eyes:
Wear Polarized Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a must-have to protect against UV rays, but polarized sunglasses can add more protection for surfers who are constantly in or near water. Polarized sunglasses can block glare from reflective surfaces like the ocean, allowing for clear and more accurate vision and reducing eye strain. Buying polarized sunglasses online will enable you to upgrade your eyewear for increased UV protection. If you’re worried about costs, you can also score good deals online; for $69, you can add a mirrored tint to your polarized water sports sunglasses from EyeBuyDirect. Polarized sunglass models like the Ocean, Malibu frames or Oakley can offer good protection and vision enhancement on the beach and in the water. You can opt for closed temporal sunglasses that absorb the blue part of sunlight, which can guard against pterygium—also known as surfer’s eye— or a wraparound shape for more coverage on the sides when surfing. Rarely surfers use them in water as they can become cumbersome. Keep a case and cleaning cloth handy to protect your shades from sand and seawater so you can prevent wear and tear and wear them to more surfing sessions in the future.
Put on Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for any surf trip first-aid kit and must be applied before catching waves. While you obviously can’t use it directly on your eyes, finding a high-quality sunscreen to apply around your eye area can help protect the sensitive area from sun damage. The skin around your eyes deserves much attention since the skin is sensitive, and prolonged UV exposure can age the skin and lead to skin conditions. Since you’re going to be in the water most of the time, it helps to put on sunscreen that can withstand the waves. The Thinksport sunscreen provides serious protection, especially for more intense activities like surfing. It’s reef-safe, highly water-resistant, and free of harmful chemicals, making it a great option for your skin and the sea. But even if your sunscreen is water-resistant, it helps to reapply it often to ensure you’re getting the best protection.
Use Eye Drops
Long hours spent surfing the waves can expose your eyes to sun, sand, and sea. This can cause irritation, dryness, or issues like surfer’s eye, which can lead to growth on the eye’s surface and blurred vision. No surfer wants to deal with poor eyesight or discomfort while surfing, so you should make eye drops your best friend to prevent these problems. Artificial tears can provide extra lubrication, keeping your eyes moist and soothing irritation. Eye drops like the Biotrue Hydration Boost Lubricant Eye Drops can provide instant moisture after a long day of surfing. The preservative-free and pH-balanced formula ensures gentle relief and healthy eyes.
Wear a surf hat
Another effective way to protect your eyes while surfing is by wearing a surf hat. Surf hats provide shade and reduce the amount of direct sunlight hitting your face and eyes, offering additional UV protection. They come with adjustable chin straps to ensure they stay on even in strong waves. By shielding your eyes from the sun’s harsh glare, a surf hat helps reduce the risk of developing eye conditions related to prolonged UV exposure. Plus, many surf hats are designed to be water-resistant and quick-drying, making them practical for all-day surf sessions. Incorporating a surf hat into your gear not only enhances eye protection but also adds to your overall comfort while out on the water.
