Did you know that you can get sunburn even on overcast days when you are out for a run? Many underestimate the level of protection necessary when on the track or trail. As we head into the final days of summer, it’s time to debunk five of the most common myths about the sun and UV protection. By dodging these myths, we can all do the best to protect ourselves from UV rays while keeping in shape.
Myth #1: UV damage to the eyes can be reversed.
Reality: Sun damage to the eyes is cumulative, meaning the lasting damage can slowly build up.
Myth #2: You don’t need to worry about wearing sunglasses when you’re running on a cloudy day.
Reality: UV rays can get through clouds and they only reduce the amount of UV by around 10 per cent. Overcast days can still leave you vulnerable to high levels of UV exposure so it’s important to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.
Myth #3: Wearing darker tinted lenses during your run will give you a higher level of UV protection.
Reality: The tint of the lens will have no effect on UV protection but will change the amount of light that goes into your eye.
Myth #4: Your eyes are just as sensitive to UV light as your skin.
Reality: Your eyes are ten times more sensitive to UV light than your skin. Just as UV rays can burn your skin, they can also cause damage your eyes and your eyes are much more susceptible to damage than skin.
Myth #5: People with blue eyes have the same UV risk as everyone else.
Reality: People with blue eyes have less protective melanin pigment in their iris, making them more at risk to UV exposure and more susceptible to damage.
