Sun, makeup, tanning lamps and outdoor environments: in summer, beauty begins with visual protection

Summer, sun and... eye care! The tips from Commissione Difesa Vista ETS to protect your eyes even while on holiday.

With the arrival of summer, the desire for golden skin grows—but it’s important to remember that a tan is actually a reaction to skin damage: to protect itself, the body stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin, the pigment responsible for darkening the skin.

Whether it comes from the sun or tanning beds, exposure to UV rays carries real risks: premature aging, skin inflammation, and—most importantly—eye issues such as dry eye, photokeratitis, and cataracts.

Let’s review some best practices to stay protected...

To enjoy the summer safely, it’s essential to adopt small daily habits that make a big difference—for both your visual and skin health. Here are some practices you shouldn’t forget:

• Sunglasses: don’t be fooled by imitations

Only choose certified models with 100% UVA and UVB protection, preferably wrap-around styles. Dark lenses without proper filters can be deceptive—and more harmful than helpful. Look for the CE marking on the frame, along with the informational leaflet, which must include filter type and number, manufacturer or supplier identification, care and cleaning instructions, and warnings for proper use. Only buy from authorized retailers such as optical shops. Avoid street vendors, beach stalls, market tables, or suspicious websites offering fake or unbranded products.

• Contact lenses? Yes—but wear them with sunglasses

Avoid wearing contact lenses while bathing or showering (at home, at the beach, or in the pool). Daily lenses are the ideal choice in summer—they’re used once and disposed of at the end of the day. Some lenses include UV filters that protect the cornea from harmful radiation, but they are not a substitute for sunglasses, which are always recommended.

• Protection for all ages

Children absorb more UV rays than adults—their eyes need protection from an early age. Older adults also require special care and attention.

• Indoor tanning: the invisible risk

Tanning lamps emit both UVA and UVB rays, which can damage the conjunctiva and cornea. Even short, unprotected exposure can cause acute inflammation and pain. Never rely on closed eyelids alone—they are not enough of a barrier. Contact lens wearers should remove lenses before using tanning beds to avoid damage to the lens and eye surface. Always hydrate your eyes with gel before the session and rehydrate afterward.

• Wide-brimmed hats: your best friend

They reduce direct sun exposure and protect not only the eyes, but also the facial skin, which is particularly delicate.

• Makeup and eye health

Use waterproof, eye-safe products that are compatible with contact lenses. And always remember to remove makeup thoroughly—it’s not just a beauty ritual, but a health necessity too.

• Don’t trust the shade (or the clouds)

UV rays can penetrate parasols and light clouds. Even when it’s overcast or you’re in the shade, proper protection is still essential.

• Avoid peak sun hours

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the sun’s rays are at their strongest. If possible, go out early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

• Get regular eye check-ups

Good vision is essential—especially when driving or doing outdoor activities. Take care of your eyes all year round, not just in summer.

CDV at Milano Beauty Week 2025: where beauty meets prevention

Beauty begins with the eyes. With this belief, Commissione Difesa Vista ETS will take part in Milano Beauty Week 2025 with an immersive and engaging activity scheduled for September 20 and 21, aiming to raise awareness—especially among younger generations—about the importance of protecting eye health, particularly during the warmer months.

At the heart of the event, visitors will experience an informative and interactive journey that, thanks to virtual reality headsets, will simulate everyday but often overlooked situations: sun exposure, improper makeup use, and indoor tanning.

There will also be practical, evidence-based tips on how to safely remove makeup, correctly use contact lenses, manage dry eye, and choose eye-friendly cosmetics. A valuable opportunity to promote conscious beauty—rooted in prevention.

“Beauty is not only what you see, but what you protect.
In our daily routines, we learn to care for our skin, hair, and body—but too often we forget the eyes, which are among the most exposed and delicate organs,” says Vittorio Tabacchi, President of Commissione Difesa Vista ETS.
“Exposing them to sunlight without protection can cause invisible yet serious damage.
Including visual health in your self-care means choosing a more conscious, complete, and lasting kind of beauty.”

 

As sun exposure increases this time of year, CDV reminds us: there is no such thing as a safe tan, but there is a smart way to enjoy summer.
Protect your eyes. Protect your beauty.