Morning Sun vs. Evening Sun: What's Best for Your Eyes?

The notion that the early morning sun is good for the eyes while the evening sun is bad is not a straightforward yes or no. This article explores the nuances behind these differing perceptions, focusing on the benefits and concerns associated with both times of day.

Benefits of Early Morning Sun

The early morning sun typically has a lower angle and is less intense. Here are some key benefits of looking at the sun during these hours:

Reduced Glare and UV Risk

Less glare is produced at sunrise, which makes it easier on the eyes. Additionally, the sun is still low in the sky and the atmosphere filters out more ultraviolet (UV) radiation, reducing the risk of exposure to harmful UV rays.

Regulating Circadian Rhythms

Exposure to natural light in the morning can help regulate circadian rhythms. The morning light prompts the body to release cortisol, a hormone that promotes wakefulness, while blocking melatonin production, helping to synchronize your body's internal clock.

Concerns with Evening Sun

It is generally not recommended to look directly at the setting sun, especially during the evening. Here are some reasons why the evening sun might cause concern:

Brightening and Glare

The sun setting can be intensely bright, leading to discomfort and potentially causing eye strain. The bright light can also create glare, making it difficult to see clearly.

Prolonged UV Exposure

Bright sunlight can contribute to retinal damage due to UV rays, whether in the morning or the evening when the sun is lower in the sky.

UV Radiation Throughout the Day

Both morning and evening sun have UV radiation, but the intensity varies. Midday sun is the most intense, posing the highest risk for eye damage. However, it is important to protect your eyes from UV rays at all times, regardless of the time of day.

Conclusion

Neither the early morning nor the evening sun is inherently good or bad for the eyes. The time of day and your exposure posture both play crucial roles. Protecting your eyes from UV rays, especially during peak hours, is essential for maintaining good eye health.

Advice: Use sunglasses or other UV protection when looking directly at the sun, regardless of the time of day. For morning sun exposure, take advantage of its lower angle and glorious benefits while taking precautions.

Myth Busting

Misconceptions about the morning sun being good for the eyes and the evening sun being bad are common but misguided. Here are some clarifications based on the above information:

No: The morning sun is not inherently good for the eyes, and the evening sun is not automatically bad. Both times face the same issues of UV rays and glare if not treated properly.

In-applicability: Concentrating on the sunrise and sunset as safer times than later in the day is correct due to the angle and the filtering effect of the atmosphere. However, looking directly at the sun at any time is harmful and unsafe.

Cautions: Sun gazers, akin to yoga practitioners, may have their own methods and reasons for looking directly at the sun. However, the general advice for the majority of people is to protect their eyes from UV rays and avoid staring at the sun.

For the average person, the morning sun can be a time to bask in the benefits of less intense light while the evening sun can bring vitamin D and warmth, but proper precautions should always be taken.