We analyzed human tears by ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometry for transmittance of UV light. Ultraviolet light was readily transmitted through human tears in the UV-A (320-400 nm) and UV-B (290-320 nm) ranges. Tears partially absorbed UV light in the UV-C (100-290 nm) range. The clinical implications of these findings include prevention of phototoxic ocular damage and effects upon excimer laser corneal photoablative techniques.
