Eye health is optimized during the golden hour according to a health expert's advice.
Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while appreciating the soft, warm glow of the sun. However, it's essential to remember that prolonged exposure during this time still carries potential risks for eye health.
Benefits of Golden Hour for Eye Health
The soft light of golden hour can stimulate melatonin production, an antioxidant beneficial for retinal health. Controlled exposure to sunlight during this time may also support protective mechanisms in the retina and help maintain eye function, potentially reducing risks of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Risks Associated with Golden Hour
Despite the softer light, ultraviolet (UV) rays from prolonged sun exposure can penetrate the eye, causing damage. UVA rays can reach deep into the eye and are linked to cataracts and macular degeneration, while UVB rays mainly affect the outer eye but also contribute to cataract risk. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, wind, or dry environments can lead to dry, gritty, or watery eyes, which can cause discomfort and potential damage if unaddressed.
Minimizing Risks and Maximizing Benefits
Despite the potential benefits, it's crucial to take precautions to protect your eyes during golden hour, especially for seniors and those with heightened vulnerability. Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses during outdoor activities is recommended to minimize risks, particularly during prolonged exposure. Maintaining eye moisture through blinking and protective measures is also important to prevent dry eye symptoms induced or worsened by outdoor exposure.
Conclusion
While golden hour exposure may uniquely support some eye health aspects, the risks from UV damage and dryness remain significant. By taking simple protective measures, such as wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and staying hydrated, you can enjoy the beauty of golden hour while protecting your vision.
Sources:
- Forbes
- Audley Villages
- Pantone
- Scotland
The soft light of golden hour can stimulate melatonin production, an antioxidant that benefits retinal health, and may also support protective mechanisms in the retina, potentially reducing risks of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. On the other hand, prolonged sun exposure during golden hour can lead to UV damage, with UVA rays being linked to cataracts and macular degeneration, and UVB rays contributing to cataract risk. To protect your eyes and maximize benefits, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses during outdoor activities during golden hour is recommended, and maintaining eye moisture is crucial, especially for seniors or those with heightened vulnerability.
