Are contact lenses that block UV exposure acceptable for eye protection in a tanning salon?

Contact lenses that claim to block UV exposure do not provide sufficient eye protection in a tanning salon environment. While some lenses may offer a degree of UV filtration, they do not fully protect the eyes from the high levels of UV radiation produced by tanning beds.

The retina and other internal eye structures are still vulnerable to UV damage even when wearing these lenses. The protective coverage offered by the lenses is limited to surface exposure and does not encompass the entire eye area. For effective protection while using tanning beds, goggles designed specifically for UV protection are essential. These goggles create a barrier that safeguards the entire eye area, significantly reducing the risk of UV-related injuries such as cataracts or photokeratitis.

In summary, proper eye protection in a tanning salon requires specialized eyewear, as general contact lenses that block UV exposure do not ensure adequate safety during tanning sessions.