Introduction: Can You Get Sunburned Eyes?

Most people think of sunburn as something that happens to skin. A long afternoon outdoors, a forgotten layer of sunscreen, and the familiar sting sets in. What many don’t realize is that your eyes can experience a very similar burn. This condition is called photokeratitis, and it’s more common than most people expect.

Photokeratitis is essentially a sunburn of the cornea caused by strong ultraviolet exposure. It can happen at the beach, in the mountains, in snowy landscapes, on cloudy days, and even during everyday activities like walking the dog or driving. Because UV rays reach your eyes from above, below, and every angle in between, it’s possible to experience eye sunburn even when the sun doesn’t feel particularly intense.

This guide explains what photokeratitis is, why it happens, what the symptoms feel like, and simple ways to protect your eyes year-round.

What Is Photokeratitis?

Photokeratitis is an inflammation of the cornea caused by short-term, high-intensity ultraviolet exposure. The cornea absorbs a large portion of the UV light your body encounters, and too much UV too quickly irritates its surface in the same way that skin becomes irritated when exposed to too much sun.

Unlike a skin sunburn that appears quickly, symptoms of photokeratitis often show up several hours later. Many people don’t recognize the connection between their earlier environment and the discomfort they feel later in the day.

UV-related eye irritation can happen in any season. Snow reflects up to eighty percent of UV radiation. Water, sand, and pale surfaces bounce UV upward. Clouds filter visible light but allow UV rays through. Outdoor light, even indirect light, can expose the cornea to more UV than you might expect.

How Common Is Eye Sunburn?

Photokeratitis is more common than most people realize. Anyone can experience it, regardless of age. It often affects skiers, hikers, beachgoers, and anyone spending time in bright outdoor environments. Even short exposure can cause symptoms, whether it’s a walk at midday, lunch outdoors, or driving without sunglasses.

UV exposure is cumulative, so even small moments of unprotected exposure can add up over time.

What Causes Sunburned Eyes?

Eye sunburn is caused by ultraviolet radiation. Some environments naturally intensify UV exposure.

Direct sunlight provides the strongest UV, especially during midday.

Reflective surfaces such as snow, water, sand, concrete, or white buildings amplify the UV reaching the eyes.

Artificial sources like tanning beds or welding equipment emit intense UV that can irritate the cornea quickly.

High-altitude environments increase UV intensity because the atmosphere is thinner.

Even if the sun is behind you or hidden by clouds, UV can reach your eyes through sideways or upward reflection.

What Do Sunburned Eyes Feel Like?

Symptoms vary but tend to follow a familiar pattern. Many people report:

• A gritty, sandy sensation

• Redness and burning

• Watery or teary eyes

• Sensitivity to bright light

• Blurred vision

• Swollen eyelids

• Headaches

These symptoms may appear suddenly or a few hours after exposure. They usually improve within twenty-four to forty-eight hours as the cornea heals. If the discomfort is severe or does not improve, an eye care professional should evaluate the symptoms.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Photokeratitis can happen to anyone, but certain environments and activities increase the likelihood.

Winter sports produce intense glare from snow.

Beach and lake environments reflect UV from water and sand.

High-altitude travel increases UV intensity.

Outdoor workers experience daily, cumulative exposure.

Even people who spend most of their time indoors may be exposed to artificial UV from lighting or equipment.

How Is Photokeratitis Treated?

Most cases of eye sunburn resolve naturally within a day or two. The cornea heals quickly, and supportive care helps relieve discomfort during that period.

Resting your eyes helps reduce sensitivity.

Cool compresses can soothe irritation.

Preservative-free artificial tears provide relief from dryness or burning.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, which can worsen symptoms.

Contact lens wearers should remove lenses until the eyes feel fully normal again.

Medical evaluation is recommended if symptoms persist longer than forty-eight hours or worsen.

Long-Term Effects of UV Exposure

One episode of photokeratitis usually heals without long-term consequences. However, repeated unprotected exposure to UV light contributes to age-related eye conditions over time. These may include cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium.

Just as consistent sunscreen protects your skin, consistent UV protection helps preserve long-term eye health.

How to Protect Your Eyes From UV Damage

Sun protection for the eyes is simple and effective when practiced consistently.

Wear sunglasses that block one hundred percent of UVA and UVB rays.

Choose polarized lenses to reduce glare from reflective surfaces.

Pair sunglasses with a wide-brimmed hat for added shade.

Use UV-blocking contact lenses for an additional layer of protection.

UV-blocking contacts should not replace sunglasses, but they help shield areas that glasses do not cover completely.

EyeCandys offers a range of UV-blocking lenses designed to help keep your eyes comfortable and protected throughout the day.

UV Safety Is a Year-Round Habit

UV exposure doesn’t disappear in winter or on overcast days. Snow significantly increases UV reflection during cold-weather months. Water continues reflecting UV during spring and fall. Even quick errands in diffuse daylight can expose your eyes to UV radiation.

Consistent UV protection is one of the easiest long-term habits for better eye health.

How EyeCandys Supports Eye Health

EyeCandys offers UV-blocking contacts and stylish sunglasses designed to protect the eyes while keeping your daily look polished. Whether you prefer clear lenses, tinted lenses, or fashionable frames with polarized options, the collection makes it easy to incorporate UV safety without sacrificing style.

From beach vacations to snowy getaways to everyday commutes, UV-safe eyewear helps safeguard your vision with every wear.

Conclusion

Yes, you can absolutely get sunburned eyes. Photokeratitis is a temporary but uncomfortable reminder of how sensitive the cornea is to ultraviolet light. Fortunately, preventing it is simple. With consistent use of sunglasses, UV-blocking lenses, and a few mindful habits, you can enjoy your time outdoors while protecting your vision.

The sun is part of everyday life. Protecting your eyes should be too.