dark brown eyes in the sun - #14524
I am really concerned about my dark brown eyes in the sun. Last summer I was outside a lot, and I started to notice that whenever I spent time in bright sunlight, my eyes felt super dry and kind of irritated. Like, almost a burning sensation, and I didn't know if that's normal or not? Even when I wore sunglasses, things didn’t feel much better at times. My friend who has dark brown eyes in the sun said it happens to her too, but does that mean it’s common? I also read somewhere that people with darker eyes might be more sensitive to light but is that really true? Sometimes, I feel like I squint way more than other people, and honestly, it can be embarrassing. Just last week, I had a picnic and after a couple hours my eyes felt super fatigued even though I was trying to stay in the shade. Should I be worried about my dark brown eyes in the sun or is it just something everyone deals with? How can I protect them better? I don’t wanna end up with any long-term problems because of it! Any advice would be super helpful!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
It’s not uncommon for eyes to feel dry and irritated in the sunlight, and your dark brown eyes could be giving you a slightly different experience compared to those with lighter eye colors. While it’s a common assumption that darker eyes might be more sensitive to light, it’s really more about individual differences rather than eye color itself. The burning sensation and fatigue you’re experiencing might be related to eye strain or even dry eye syndrome, which can be exacerbated by sun exposure. Wearing sunglasses is a great first step, but it sounds like they may not be providing enough protection or they might not have the proper UV filtering. Consider investing in a pair of sunglasses rated to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Polarized lenses might also reduce glare, which can contribute to discomfort. Don’t forget that a hat with a wide brim can add another layer of defense against direct sunlight. Staying hydrated is crucial since dehydration can contribute to dryness in the eyes; drinking more water is a simple but effective measure. You could also use artificial tears to help with any dryness, but avoid ones with preservatives if you’re using them frequently. If your symptoms persist, or worsen, it would be wise to see an eye care professional. They can check for underlying issues like dry eye syndrome or more serious conditions like pterygium or photokeratitis. Since you noticed discomfort even while trying to stay in the shade during your picnic, don’t hesitate in reaching out for a thorough examination to ensure there’s nothing more serious at play.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.