July is UV Safety Month, a perfect time to focus on something most of us enjoy but sometimes overlook—sunlight. While getting outdoors is great for your physical and mental health, too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can lead to serious, long-term health problems, especially for children.
As a primary care provider, I want to help you understand the risks of ultraviolet radiation, what to watch for, and how to protect your family while still enjoying fun in the sun.
What Is Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation?
Ultraviolet light and radiation come from the sun and from artificial sources like tanning beds or UV lamps. UV rays are a form of non-ionizing radiation, meaning they don’t penetrate the body as deeply as other forms of radiation (like X-rays), but that doesn’t mean they’re harmless.
There are three types of UV radiation:
- UVA: Longest wavelength, penetrates deep into skin, contributes to aging and some cancers.
- UVB: Causes sunburn and is the main culprit in radiation damage to the skin.
- UVC: Absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and doesn’t usually reach us—but can be produced by man-made sources like germicidal lamps.
So, are UV lights dangerous? Yes, excessive exposure to ultraviolet light can damage the skin, eyes, and immune system. Children are particularly at risk because they spend more time outdoors and have more sensitive skin.
UV Light Risks: What Does Radiation Do to the Body?
UV exposure isn’t just about sunburns. Here are some key effects of radiation exposure to ultraviolet light:
Skin Damage
- Sunburns (even mild ones) can cause permanent radiation damage to skin cells.
- Premature aging (wrinkles, leathery texture)
- Skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be deadly
Eye Damage
- Sunlight in eyes without protection can lead to:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Photokeratitis (like a sunburn of the eye)
- You might wonder: Is sun good for your eyes? While light is essential for vision and mood, too much direct sunlight in eyes can cause damage.
Immune System Suppression
UV radiation can weaken the skin’s natural defenses, increasing infection risk and possibly reducing vaccine effectiveness over time.
Signs and Symptoms of Radiation Exposure to UV Light
If you’ve been exposed to high amounts of UV radiation, especially without proper protection, here’s what to watch for:
Signs of Sun Damage to Skin:
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness
- Peeling or blistering
- Freckles or new dark spots
- Long-term: dry, scaly patches that don’t go away (possible precancerous lesions)
Sun Damage to Eyes Symptoms:
- Red, irritated eyes
- Blurry vision
- A gritty feeling, like sand in your eyes
- Light sensitivity or tearing
- Temporary vision loss (in severe cases)
These are signs of sun damage to eyes that should be taken seriously. If your child complains of discomfort after a day outside, schedule an eye exam or talk to your healthcare provider.
Do Polarized Sunglasses Block UV Rays?
Here’s a common question: Do polarized sunglasses block UV rays? The answer: Not necessarily.
Polarized lenses reduce glare—great for driving or being on the water—but they don’t always provide ultraviolet protection unless labeled with 100% UVA/UVB protection.
So, does polarized mean UV protection? No. Always look for sunglasses that specifically state UV400 or 100% UV protection.
For children, make sure their sunglasses meet these standards too, and remember—eye protection is just as important as sunscreen.
Do Windows Block UV?
It depends on the type of glass.
- Does glass stop UV? Some UV rays, yes.
- Regular window glass blocks UVB rays (the burning kind), but lets UVA rays (the aging, cancer-causing kind) through.
- Car windshields typically block more UV than side windows, but still not all UVA.
So, if your child sits by a sunny window often, or you drive long distances, consider UV window film or wearing sunscreen even indoors. That’s right—radiation damage can occur indoors too!
How to Protect Yourself from Ultraviolet Radiation
You don’t need to avoid the sun entirely. The goal is smart sun habits—especially during peak sunlight hours (10 AM to 4 PM). Here’s how to protect your family:
1. Use Sunscreen—Correctly
- Choose broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Apply 15 minutes before going outside
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
- Don’t forget easy-to-miss areas: ears, back of neck, tops of feet
2. Wear Protective Clothing
- Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses
- Look for UPF-rated (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing for extra shielding
3. Seek Shade
- Especially between 10 AM and 4 PM
- Use umbrellas, tents, or natural shade like trees
4. Protect Eyes Year-Round
- Make sure your sunglasses block 100% of UVA/UVB
- Children’s eyes are more vulnerable, so start early with protective habits
5. Avoid Tanning Beds
They emit dangerous UV radiation, often even more intense than the sun. No tan is a safe tan.
UV Safety for Kids and Teens
Young skin burns faster and takes longer to recover. For children:
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days
- Reapply more often at the beach or pool
- Keep babies under 6 months out of direct sun
- Model sun safety for teens—they’re watching you, even if they won’t admit it
When to See a Doctor
Schedule a visit if you or your child experiences:
- Severe sunburn with blistering, fever, or dehydration
- Persistent eye pain or blurry vision after sun exposure
- New or changing moles or skin spots
- Fatigue or nausea after sun exposure (signs of radiation poisoning side effects are rare with UV but possible with artificial sources like tanning beds)
Also, regular skin checks are a smart preventive step—especially if your family has a history of skin cancer or you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Can We Get Too Little Sun?
Yes—moderate sunlight is beneficial. It helps our bodies produce vitamin D, boosts mood, and supports sleep cycles. So you might wonder: Is sunlight good for your eyes or body? In moderation, yes.
But the goal is to find the right balance between getting the benefits of sunlight and avoiding the radioactivity effects on the body from too much UV.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is the Best Protection
UV Safety Month is a reminder that we have the power to prevent most radiation damage from UV exposure. By making small changes—using sunscreen daily, choosing protective clothing, and prioritizing eye protection—we can protect ourselves and our kids from serious health risks.
Recap of Key UV Safety Tips:
- Use SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses
- Choose UPF clothing
- Seek shade during peak hours
- Avoid tanning beds
- Schedule regular skin and eye exams
Let’s make this summer—and every season—a safe and sun-smart one. If you have questions about UV light risks, skin concerns, or eye health, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office at FamilyFirst Primary Care. We’re here to help you stay informed and protected.