Melanin, besides a pigment, is a defense developed by the evolution of the species. The melanin present in the iris of our eyes allows this organ to be more protected from the possible damage that UV radiation and blue light on the screens can cause. As blue eyes contain less melanin than the other colours present in the human eye, they may be more susceptible to injury. Science also tells us that brown colour is more susceptible to cataracts, as opposed to blue eyes with a reduced risk of eye uveal melanoma (a form of eye cancer). But the same study that concluded the above facts does not confirm any relationship between eye colour and the increased risk of age-related macular degeneration. Even so, as many blue-eyed people are more sensitive to light and more likely to suffer retina damage from UV exposure, most ophthalmologists recommend caution in sun exposure. As eye damage caused by UV and blue light seems to be linked to lifetime exposure to these rays, sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays from childhood are recommended. If our skin needs this care, it is only normal that our eyes also have this need. The same care is valid for exposure to blue light. Many years will pass before we are 100% sure of the effects caused by this light on our eyes. But prevention is best, especially if you have blue eyes. | |||||
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