A method for treating an eye includes applying, to an outer protective layer of an area of an eye, one or more initial doses of a cross-linking agent that acts as a photosensitizer. The method also includes delivering, from a light source, one or more initial doses of ultraviolet light to the area of the eye. The cross-linking agent increases absorption of the ultraviolet light by the area of the eye, and the absorption of the ultraviolet light sterilizes the area of the eye before the outer protective layer is penetrated. Additionally, the method includes penetrating the outer protective layer of the eye to provide access to an area below the outer protective layer. Moreover, the method includes applying a treatment to the eye via the access provided by cutting the outer protective layer. In some embodiments, the cross-linking agent is Riboflavin, and the treatment is LASIK surgery.
