Quick Answer
Yes, sunburn on the eyes is a real risk during winter due to the reflection of sunlight off snow and ice, which can cause snow blindness, a condition that can be painful and potentially lead to long-term vision damage.
Reflection and Snow Blindness
Snow blindness, also known as photokeratitis, occurs when the cornea and the conjunctiva in the eye are damaged by intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight reflected off snow, ice, and water. This can happen even on cloudy days when the sun is not visible. The reflected sunlight can contain up to 80% of the sun’s UV radiation, increasing the risk of snow blindness.
Prevention Techniques
To prevent snow blindness, wear protective eyewear with UV protection, specifically designed for snow sports. Look for goggles with a UV protection rating of 400 or higher. Apply sunscreen to the skin around the eyes, but be aware that it will not protect the eyes themselves. Wear a hat with a brim to shield the eyes from direct sunlight.
Additional Precautions
If you plan to spend extended periods outside in snowy conditions, take regular breaks to rest your eyes in shaded areas. If you experience snow blindness symptoms, including eye pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision, seek medical attention immediately. In severe cases, snow blindness can lead to corneal ulcers, cataracts, and even permanent vision loss.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.