Sungazing

[1] The human eye is very sensitive, and exposure to direct sunlight can lead to solar retinopathy, pterygium,[2] cataracts,[3] and potentially blindness.

[4][5][6] Studies have shown that even when viewing a solar eclipse the eye can still be exposed to harmful levels of ultraviolet radiation.

[8] People who have had cataract surgery, received photodynamic therapy, or are under the effects of photosensitizing medications have an increased risk of eye damage due to sungazing.

Without proper protection, this leads to a larger area for the Sun's UV rays to penetrate and do damage.

The British Medical Journal reported in 1967 that "Bates (1920) advocated prolonged sun-gazing as the treatment of myopia, with disastrous results".