Sunbed eye protection: why is it so important?
Wearing eye protection while working on your sun-kissed glow is not optional – it’s essential. UV light exposure from sunbeds can cause both short- and long-term eye damage if protective eyewear isn’t used correctly every time you tan.
CAN UV LIGHT DAMAGE MY EYES
Sunbeds emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation – primarily UVA and UVB rays – which stimulate melanin production in the skin. UVA rays penetrate more deeply than UVB and are the main cause of the immediate tanning effect.
Unlike your skin, your eyes don’t have the same regenerative defences against UV exposure. This makes them especially vulnerable to damage, which is why wearing appropriate protection is non-negotiable and one of the key steps to safe tanning.
TYPES OF EYE PROTECTION FOR SUNBED USE
There are two main types of sunbed-specific eye protection:
- Reusable goggles – Designed to be worn repeatedly, easy to clean, and highly effective.
- Single-use eye protection stickers – Convenient, hygienic, and provided free in every sunbed room across all our salons.
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT EYE PROTECTION
CAN I JUST CLOSE MY EYES?
In short – no. Your eyelids are extremely thin and only offer the equivalent of SPF 5 protection. They can block as little as 25% of UV rays, leaving your eyes exposed to potential harm.
Can I just wear my sunglasses on the sunbed?
While sunglasses are excellent for outdoor vision protection, they aren’t sufficient for sunbed tanning as the UV rays surround you completely. Your eyes need protection from all angles, not just the front. Although sunglasses offer some protection, they should not be used as a substitute for specially designed eye protection.
I have lash extensions can I still wear eye protection?
Yes, absolutely! Eye protection is so important when tanning that you can now purchase eyelash extension specific eye protection such as WinkEase Lash Room which are specifically designed to accommodate longer lashes.
What are the short-term risks of not wearing eye protection when using a sunbed?
Photokeratitis – occurs when the eye’s cornea becomes inflamed from overexposure of UV light.
Symptoms usually clear up within 24-48 hours if you give your eyes plenty of rest and take a break from UV light exposure
Pterygium – is a noncancerous growth that develops on the white bit of your eye and is sometimes referred to as ‘Surfers eye’. It is linked to exposure to high levels of UV light usually from spending most of the day outdoors.
The treatment for a pterygium largely depends on its size and whether it is impacting your vision.
> More information is available on Pterygium from Specsavers
What are the long-term risks of not wearing eye protection when using a sunbed?
Cataracts – A cataract is a common eye condition where the lens inside the eye becomes less transparent. Overexposure to UV light can increase your risk of developing cataracts.
Macular degeneration – is an eye disease which is caused by the deterioration of the Macula which is a small area in the middle of the eye’s retina and is the leading cause of age-related blindness. Extended overexposure to UV light can increase the likelihood of developing Macular degeneration,
> More information is available on Macular degeneration at Specsavers
Eye cancers – there is some evidence to suggest that overexposure to UV light can increase your risk of developing eye cancer.
> More information about eye cancer at NHS
Protect Your Eyes Always!
To protect your vision and overall eye health, always wear UV-blocking eyewear made for sunbed use, whether you prefer goggles or disposable stickers. These are designed specifically to shield the delicate structures of your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Not sure how to use the free protection provided in our salons? Speak to a member of our team, we’ll be happy to help.
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