Going Out? Don’t Forget Your Sunglasses!
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement, they’re essential protection for your eyes.
When we think about shielding ourselves from the sun, sunscreen and hats often come to mind first, but many people forget that our eyes are just as vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation as our skin. Without proper protection, UV exposure can cause long-term damage to your vision and eye health.
What UV Rays Can Do to Our Eyes
The sun emits both UVA and UVB rays, and both types can harm the eyes over time. UV radiation is invisible, but its effects are cumulative and potentially serious. Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of several eye conditions, including:
- Cataracts: UV rays can accelerate the clouding of the eye’s lens, which eventually leads to cataracts — one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide.
- Macular Degeneration: Excessive UV exposure may contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects the central part of the retina and impairs detailed vision.
- Photokeratitis: Also known as “sunburn of the eye,” this painful condition is caused by intense UV exposure and can result in temporary vision loss and severe discomfort.
- Pterygium: This is a growth of tissue on the white of the eye, which can extend onto the cornea and affect vision. It’s more common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without sunglasses.
- Skin Cancer Around the Eyes: The delicate skin surrounding the eyes is also prone to UV damage and can develop cancerous growths if left unprotected.
What to Look for in Sunglasses
Not all sunglasses are created equal. To truly protect your eyes, your sunglasses should block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a label that specifically says “100% UV protection” or “UV400,” which means the lenses block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. For even better protection, consider the following features:
- Wraparound frames: These help prevent UV rays from entering from the sides.
- Polarized lenses: While polarization doesn’t block UV rays, it reduces glare from reflective surfaces like water, roads, or snow, making your vision clearer and more comfortable.
- Larger lenses: Bigger lenses or styles that cover more of the eye area offer additional protection from stray UV rays.
Children and Sunglasses
Kids’ eyes are especially sensitive to UV light, and they tend to spend more time outside than adults. It’s important to start healthy habits early by making sure your children wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats when playing outdoors.
Sunglasses Are a Year-Round Necessity
UV rays don’t take a break during the colder months. In fact, snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, making sunglasses just as important in winter as they are in summer. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or taking a walk on a cloudy day, make sunglasses part of your daily routine.
Protect Your Eyes for the Long Term
Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your eyes from long-term damage. If you need help finding the right pair, we’re happy to make recommendations. Schedule your next eye exam with us to ensure your vision is clear and your eyes are healthy.