Most people associate UV protection with summertime, but winter UV exposure can be just as damaging—sometimes even more. Cold temperatures may fool us into thinking the sun is weaker, but harmful ultraviolet rays remain strong all year long.
How Winter UV Affects Your Eyes
❄️ Increased UV Reflection From Snow
Fresh snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, nearly doubling the amount of UV exposure your eyes receive. This can lead to discomfort, glare, and long-term damage if eyes aren’t protected.
❄️ Risk of Photokeratitis (“Snow Blindness”)
Just like your skin can get sunburned, your eyes can too. Photokeratitis is a painful condition caused by intense UV exposure—common during winter sports or even after spending time outside on bright snowy days.
❄️ Long-Term Damage to Eye Health
Over time, UV exposure contributes to conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and growths on the eye surface. Winter is no exception—eye protection is essential every day of the year.
❄️ UV Doesn’t Take a Holiday
Even on cloudy winter days, up to 90% of UV rays can still reach your eyes. Winter light may look softer, but the UV hazards remain.
Protecting Your Eyes in Winter
Wearing quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection is one of the easiest and most effective ways to guard your vision during the winter months. Polarized lenses can also help reduce glare from snow and ice.
Give the Gift of Sight This December
The holiday season is a time filled with memories, sparkling lights, and moments shared with the people we love most. As we celebrate together, it’s the perfect reminder of how important clear, healthy vision truly is. This December, consider giving a gift that goes beyond the season—the gift of sight.
Holiday Gifts That Matter
Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, coworkers, or even treating yourself, vision-focused gifts are thoughtful, practical, and meaningful.
🎁 Stylish Sunglasses
Quality sunglasses make a fantastic gift that can be enjoyed all year long. Not only do they complete a look, but they also protect eyes from harmful UV rays—even in winter. Snow, reflective surfaces, and bright holiday lights can increase exposure, making sunglasses a smart seasonal choice.
🎁 Prepaid Eye Exams
Want to give something truly impactful? Pre-paying for an eye exam ensures your loved ones receive the vision care they need. Regular exams catch changes in vision early and support lifelong eye health.
🎁 Gift Certificates
Not sure what style or service they’ll love? A gift certificate is the perfect flexible option. Let them choose eyewear, sunwear, accessories, or schedule an appointment when it works best for them.
Why Vision Is the Perfect Gift
So many of our holiday moments—twinkling lights, festive gatherings, cherished photos—are experienced through our eyes. Reminding the people we care about that their vision matters is a heartfelt and meaningful way to show love this season.
Eye protection and proper care aren’t just for summer; they’re essential every month of the year. Giving a vision-friendly gift is a wonderful way to say, “I want you to see and enjoy every moment.”