The Risks of UV Exposure
This table summarises the short-term and long-term risks of UV exposure to the eyes and why proper protection is essential.
Risk Type Description Short-Term Risks Photokeratitis (eye sunburn) and pterygium (growth on the eye). Long-Term Risks Macular degeneration, age-related blindness, and eye cancers. UVA Penetration Deep skin and eye damage from UVA light, including during lamp treatments. Lack of Self-Repair Unlike skin, eyes cannot repair UV damage over time.
UV rays from sunbeds can cause short-term and long-term eye damage, including photokeratitis and pterygium.
UV exposure can lead to age-related blindness, macular degeneration, and eye cancers.
UV light can penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB rays, causing damage to the eyes.
UVA lamp treatments can also cause damage to the eyes if proper eye protection is not worn.
Choosing the Right Sunbed Eye Protection
This table outlines various eye protection options for sunbed users to minimise UV risks.
Option Features Best For Reusable Goggles Durable and snug-fitting UV protection. Regular tanners looking for long-term use. Disposable Stickers Single-use adhesive for UV protection. Occasional or one-time tanning sessions. Goggles for Lash Extensions Protects eyes and lash extensions from heat and UV rays. Tanners with lash extensions.
Look for specially designed eye protection that protects from UV rays to protect your eyes.
Reusable sunbed goggles are a popular option that can be purchased or provided by your tanning salon. Single-use sunbed eye protection stickers are also available.
Ensure your eye protection is designed specifically for sunbed use and fits the eye snugly.
Wearing Eye Protection: Why It Matters
This table debunks common misconceptions regarding eye protection and tanning beds. Myth Reality "Closing my eyes is enough." No, eyelids only provide SPF 5 protection, and UV rays can penetrate them. "Sunglasses will work." Sunglasses are insufficient as UV rays surround the user in a sunbed. "Eye protection will damage my lash extensions." Properly designed protection, like Wink Ease, is safe and extends lash life.
Wearing eye protection is vital to protect your eyes from short-term and long-term damage caused by UV light.
Eye protection is critical because eyes cannot repair themselves like skin.
Closing your eyes will not protect them from UV rays, as eyelid skin only provides SPF 5 protection.
Sunglasses are not sufficient for sunbed tanning as UV rays surround you.
Common Questions About Eye Protection on Sunbeds
Can I wear my sunglasses on the sunbed?
Although sunglasses are recommended for outdoor tanning to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays, they are not sufficient protection for sunbed tanning.
Will closing my eyes protect them?
No, closing your eyes will not protect them from UV rays. The eyelid skin is very delicate, and UV rays can penetrate the eye.
Can I wear eye protection with lash extensions?
You can wear eye protection even with lash extensions, such as Wink Ease. Eye protection will also help your lash extensions last longer, as the heat from the sunbeds can cause the lash glue to break down quickly.
Tips for Effective Eye Protection During Sunbed Use
This table provides practical advice for ensuring optimal eye safety while tanning indoors.
Tip Details Choose the Right Protection Opt for UV-protective goggles or disposable eye stickers. Ensure a Snug Fit Eye protection should fit closely to prevent light leakage. Replace Disposable Items Use new stickers or goggles for each session for hygiene and safety. Ask for Advice Consult with tanning salon staff to select the best option for you.
Eye Protection Options for Different Needs
Consider purchasing eye protection for sunbed use, such as goggles or protective eye stickers.
Sunbed goggles are suitable for sunbeds, solariums, and UVA lamp treatments.
Disposable eyewear is available for single use.
Conclusion
Always wear protective eyewear specifically designed for use with sunbeds to mitigate short-term and long-term risks to your eye health.
Choose from sunbed goggles or protective eye stickers, and consider purchasing eye protection explicitly designed for sunbed use.
Remember to wear eye protection to safeguard your eyes from UV rays, and it’s essential to use eye protection during every tanning session.
Written by
Jessie-Lee KingSalon Manager & Tanning Expert
Jessie-Lee is the Salon Manager at MEGATAN Studio Birmingham with over 8 years of experience in professional tanning. She specialises in helping clients find the perfect tanning routine, from selecting the right lotions to building safe, effective sunbed regimens. Jessie-Lee has trained with leading brands including Australian Gold, Devoted Creations, and Rapid Tan.