Summer is here and its time to put on your summer clothing and replace your winter cream with sunscreen. Not just your skin your eyes also need protection from the sun.

Here are some essential eye care tips to take care of your eyes this summer:

Wear your sunglasses

It’s the best time to show off your sunglasses. Make sure your sunglasses offer UV protection. Going out on a sunny day without sunglasses can give you photokeratitis — which is sunburn of the cornea. This condition can also be caused when the cornea is exposed to harmful UV rays of the sun. Symptoms include dryness, discomfort and tearing up. It’s best to wear sunglasses if you’re going to be outdoors more often in the summer. You need to wear sunglasses even if you are wearing contact lenses

Wear hats or caps to protect your eyes and skin

Choose a hat/cap with a brim that is at least 3 inches wide. Hats can reduce the risk of getting harmful UV radiation on your eyes and will help save you grave eye problems in the long run.

It is important to wear sunglasses and a hat. Long-term sun exposure can lead to many eye problems in the long run, like cataracts and macular degeneration.

Always wear goggles if you’re going to take a swim

If you’re planning on spending time in the pool, don’t forget to take your goggles. The pool water contains chlorine and might also be full of germs, can be dangerous to your eyes in the long run. Also goggles will enhance your vision for underwater swimming. You can even order swimming goggles of your glass prescription to ensure good vision. Do not go for a swim with contact lenses on

Wear eye protection

Wearing eye protection is not only important to avoid sun exposure. You should also wear eye protection when you’re doing outdoor activities or at work, where there’s a risk of something going into your eye and causing long-term injury. Always make sure to wear protection like glasses, goggles or other protective equipment to shield your eyes from potential damage.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration may not only lead to giddiness but can also cause dry eyes. So drink 2-3 L of water daily and stay hydrated this summer.