Sun damage to the eyes can cause a range of problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer on the eyelids. When looking for products to protect against sun damage, it is recommended to use products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Sunblocks contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that physically scatter and reflect UVB light. However, not all sunscreens are created equal, and some ingredients can cause photosensitivity, which can increase skin sensitivity to the sun and lead to skin damage.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of sun protection products:
Positive:
- Products with an SPF of 30 or higher can protect against sun damage.
- Sunblocks containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can physically scatter and reflect UVB light.
Negative:
- Some ingredients in sunscreens can cause photosensitivity, which can increase skin sensitivity to the sun and lead to skin damage.
- The effectiveness of sunscreens can be affected by several factors, such as the amount used and how often it is applied.
- Some sunscreen chemicals, such as oxybenzone, have been linked to hormone disruption and can cause allergic skin reactions.
It is best to ask a healthcare provider which products or ingredients might work best for individual needs.