With heightened interest in UV exposure and potential vision damage, UV- absorbing contact lenses are becoming an increasingly popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

UV-blocking contact lenses offer a comfortable and affordable way to limit possible damage to the eyes. When used in combination with UV-blocking sunglasses, the UV-absorbing polymer that exists in the formulation process of some contact lens materials offers excellent protection when out on the water, in the field, on the tennis court or on the golf course.

The ocular structures that are prone to damage from UV exposure include eyelids, the cornea, the lens, and the retina. The most important ones to protect, however, are the cornea and the crystalline lens, because they are the primary UV filters of the eye. Studies have shown that photokeratitis and pterygium have a strong association with UV exposure. High-intensity, short wavelength light is a risk factor in cataract formation and can damage retinal receptor cells.

Be sure to ask your eye doctor about options available to you. Not all contact lenses have UV-blocking properties and you won't be able to tell by looking at the lenses. Your eye health is too important to risk so be smart about proper protection.