Sunglasses: Do I really need to wear them?

How do they help protect my eyes?

From an eye health standpoint, they are essential in providing protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV radiation from the sun is a major cause of long-term eye damage. UVA rays penetrate deep into the eye leading to retinal diseases like macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in those 50 years and older. UVB rays are more intense and lead to cataracts and pterygium. In addition, the thin skin around the eye is the most delicate on the body, and highly susceptible to skin cancers. Sunglasses should have 100% UV protection to protect the eyes and shield the surrounding skin.
 

Any other benefits?

Sunglasses help to reduce glare on bright days and when doing outdoor activities on reflective surfaces like water, snow, or wet roads. They help to reduce eyestrain and squinting, which can lead to headaches and the formation of wrinkles. Sunglasses come with different tints and coatings which help with visual clarity and contrast, which is important for certain tasks like driving, fishing, or skiing, for example.
 

Are all sunglasses created equal?

No! There’s many features to consider when purchasing sunglasses. For example, polarized lenses are often recommended to cut glare from all angles, varying lens materials and tints will enhance contrast and clarity, and different frame styles and sizes will fit each person uniquely. Additionally, certain coatings can be key to a good quality pair of sunglasses, whether that is scratch-resistant coatings to hold up to the wear and tear of the outdoors, or blue light filters to keep you protected while reading your Kindle by the pool. The overall most important aspect is that they provide full UV protection, in which quality can vary, so it is recommended that sunglasses are bought from a reputable source where high quality materials are used.
As you now know, sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. They are essential to keeping your eyes healthy and to ensure the best visual comfort possible. We would love to fit you in your next pair of quality sunglasses!