Tanning salons may pose threat to eye health

August 18, 2010

The College of Optometrists recently announced that those who frequent tanning salons and neglect to wear protective eye wear are risking their vision, according to the Press Association.

Some may feel that if they close their eyes while getting their tan, they are effectively warding off harmful UV radiation. However, experts say this is not enough, because the skin of the eyelid is so thin and does not provide adequate protection. Doctors urge those who visit tanning salons to wear protective goggles or "winkies."

"Whilst we do not advocate the use of sunbeds, if you do use them it is important to ensure that you always use protective eye wear - as you would wear sunglasses when outside - to safeguard your eyes from UV rays," Dr Susan Blakeney, optometric adviser to the college, told the news source. "Avoiding wearing goggles or 'winkies' whilst using a sunbed can lead to benign eye growths called pterygium."

Blakeney added that tanning beds produce ultraviolet light rays that hit the face and eyes more directly than the sun.

It's also essential to protect your eyes when outside. The American Optometric Association recommends that sunglasses block out 99 to 100 of UV radiation.