To prevent photokeratitis ("snow blindness") in skiers and snowboarders, I start by explaining why January on the slopes is so risky: snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation and UV levels increase roughly 10% for every 1,000 m of elevation. On overcast winter days people assume they're safe, but diffuse UV still penetrates clouds and the bright snow cover acts like a mirror. A few hours of unprotected exposure can cause painful corneal inflammation and temporary vision loss. My counselling focuses on a few simple practices. First, I recommend wrapping the eyes in 100% UVA/UVB-blocking goggles rather than sunglasses. Goggles prevent light from entering at the sides and top and protect against wind and icy particles. When patients ask which lens tint to choose, I suggest an amber or rose tint for January conditions. These tints improve contrast in flat light, making it easier to see terrain changes on cloudy days, and because they enhance visual comfort, patients are more likely to keep them on all day. For bright, bluebird days high up on the glacier, a darker brown or grey lens with a visible light transmission of 10-20% (Category 3 or 4) reduces glare without distorting colour. Polarised lenses cut horizontal glare off the snow, but some skiers prefer non-polarised lenses because they allow you to read icy patches. Many brands now offer interchangeable lens systems so you can swap tints as conditions change. Comfort and fit drive compliance. I advise investing in goggles that fit snugly but not tightly against the face, with a triple-layer foam to seal out wind. A scratch-resistant, anti-fog coating and good ventilation prevent the frustrating fogging that leads some people to take them off. Remind patients not to wipe the inner lens when it's wet, as this damages the anti-fog layer. Finally, I emphasise that goggles are one part of a broader sun-safety routine. Encourage the use of broad-spectrum SPF 50 on exposed skin, a helmet with a visor to reduce top-down UV, and regular breaks indoors. Educating patients about the reasons behind each recommendation - UV at altitude, snow reflection, contrast enhancement - helps them internalise the importance of eye protection and makes them more likely to wear their goggles consistently.
I keep the message very practical and tied to comfort, not fear. I explain that snow reflects UV, so your eyes are getting hit from above and below, even on cloudy days. To prevent photokeratitis, I recommend goggles with 100 percent UV protection and a proper seal around the face. The tip that really sticks is lens tint and fit. A dark gray or rose lens with a full wrap fit reduces glare without distorting contrast. When goggles feel comfortable and visibility improves, people actually keep them on, which is what prevents the problem in the first place.
For skiers and snowboarders, I stress that snow reflects UV, doubling exposure even on cloudy days. One tip that drives compliance is recommending a rose or amber lens with full UV protection and anti-fog coating. These tints improve contrast while protecting eyes. Fit matters too. Gaps let UV in from below. When patients understand comfort and visibility improve together, they actually wear the goggles all day.