Most people are aware that tanning can cause skin cancer. Tanning can also cause eye problems, especially in tanning beds. Your eyelids or common sunglasses are not enough protection for your eyes. There are several problems that can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Pterygium is an overgrowth of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that covers the white of your eye. It is usually non-cancerous, and is most commonly found in people who work outside or have a lot of exposure to wind and sun. It can grow big enough to block your vision, and while it can be removed surgically, it may grow back. A pterygium does not usually require treatment.
Cataract is a clouding of the eye lens. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, and can be caused by exposure to UV rays. When the lens clouds, vision is blurred, but can cause double vision, and glare from lights, particularly at night. Treatment is usually surgical.
Ocular melanoma is cancer in your eye. It is just like the skin cancer melanoma, but in your eye. It is not common, but it is the most common primary eye cancer, meaning it starts in your eye, unlike other cancers that might spread to your eye. UV exposure is thought to be a risk factor for ocular melanoma, but it has not yet been proven.
Photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis are both similar to a sunburn, but on the eye. Photokeratitis is inflammation of the cornea, while photoconjunctivitis is inflammation of the membrane that lines the inside of your eyelids and eye socket. They are both temporary and reversible, but painful.
We hear a lot of information about the dangers of tanning and UV skin exposure, but it is easy to forget that the eyes are exposed as well. It is important to wear wide-brimmed hats and eye protection. When you apply your sunscreen, put on sunglasses that have UVA and UVB protection.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/eye-melanoma/DS00707
Medline Plus
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001011.htm
World Health Organization
http://www.who.int/uv/faq/uvhealtfac/en/index3.html