Protecting your eyes in the summer sun: tips from an optometrist

Sandy MacPhee of Shopko Optical stops by Upper Michigan Today to talk about the importance of protecting your eyes in bright conditions
Optometrist Sandy MacPhee joins Tia Trudgeon and Elizabeth Peterson on Upper Michigan Today.
Optometrist Sandy MacPhee joins Tia Trudgeon and Elizabeth Peterson on Upper Michigan Today.(WLUC)
Published: Jun. 21, 2023 at 1:14 PM EDT
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MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) - It’s officially summer, and longer, hotter days come with an increased need to protect yourself from the sun.

Optometrist Sandy MacPhee of Shopko Optical stops by Upper Michigan Today to share tips for protecting your peepers in the bright outdoors.

But first, Elizabeth Peterson and Tia Trudgeon share stories of the day.

Stories of the day include summer solstice sunrise, baby deer needing saving, a seal hanging ten, and a study on naps.

Now, back to summertime eye care.

MacPhee says the cost of your sunglasses doesn’t matter and that a higher price tag doesn’t equate to higher UV protection.

She adds that most sunglasses have some level of protection, but you should look for a pair that offers 99-100% UVA/B protection.

To avoid a sunburn on your eyes, you should still wear your sunglasses on overcast days and especially on bright winter days.

Optometrist Sandy MacPhee talks about the importance of wearing sunglasses for your overall eye health.

The sun won’t have an adverse effect on contact lenses, but you should be mindful of when you wear them.

MacPhee says to always take your contacts out when you’re swimming, but if you absolutely must wear them in the water, throw them away after.

She adds that you should get a routine eye exam after 1-3 years and children should get their first exam at 3 years old or before school starts.

Optometrist Sandy MacPhee shares tips for contact wearers to protect their eyes in the summer and while swimming.

And finally,

Elizabeth and Tia share their summer bucket lists.

Elizabeth and Tia share their summer bucket lists.

You can schedule an eye exam at Shopko Optical at shopko.com/eye-care.

You can watch Upper Michigan Today on weekdays at 9:00 a.m. on FOX UP or stream the show on your smart device.