Can You Get a Sunburn on Your Eyes? Deceptive "June Gloom" Risks in Long Beach

What Is Eye Sunburn?

Yes, your eyes can get sunburned. This condition is called photokeratitis, and it happens when the surface of the eye is exposed to too much ultraviolet light. It can feel similar to a sunburn on the skin, but it affects the cornea and the clear tissue covering the white of the eye.

Eye sunburn can happen after time spent outdoors without proper UV protection, especially near reflective surfaces like water, sand, pavement, and car windows. In Long Beach, coastal glare can increase UV exposure even on cooler or cloudy days.

Why June Gloom Can Be Misleading

During June Gloom, many people skip sunglasses because the sky looks gray. The problem is that UV rays are still present. You may not feel the heat of direct sun, but your eyes can still absorb harmful ultraviolet light.

This is especially important for patients who spend time walking near the waterfront, driving around Long Beach, playing outdoor sports, or enjoying patio dining. Long-term UV exposure may contribute to eye concerns such as cataracts, growths on the eye, and changes to the retina.

Signs Your Eyes May Have Too Much UV Exposure

Eye sunburn symptoms can appear several hours after being outdoors. While some cases improve with rest, symptoms should never be ignored if they are painful, sudden, or affect your vision.

Common signs of UV-related eye irritation include:

Red, watery, or irritated eyes

A gritty or burning sensation

Light sensitivity

Blurry vision

Eye pain or discomfort

Swollen eyelids

Headache after outdoor exposure

If you experience severe pain, vision changes, or symptoms that do not improve, it is important to schedule an eye exam.

How to Protect Your Eyes in Long Beach

The best way to reduce the risk of eye sunburn is to make UV protection part of your daily routine. Choose sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays, not just dark lenses. Dark lenses without UV protection can allow the pupils to widen, which may let in more harmful light.

A wide-brimmed hat can also help, especially during beach days, outdoor events, and long walks. If you wear prescription glasses, ask us about prescription sunglasses or lenses with built-in UV protection. Contact lens wearers may also benefit from additional sunglasses since contacts do not cover the entire eye.

Why Regular Eye Exams Matter

UV damage is not always obvious right away. A comprehensive eye exam allows us to evaluate your vision, check the health of your eyes, and look for early signs of sun-related changes. For patients in Long Beach, where outdoor activities are part of everyday life, routine eye care is an important step in protecting long-term vision.

At Long Beach Vision Care, we help patients choose eyewear that supports clear vision, comfort, and UV protection for their lifestyle.

Protect your eyes during June Gloom and beyond - contact Long Beach Vision Care in Long Beach, CA by calling (562) 436-6739 to schedule your eye exam.