We don’t need a National Sunglass Day (it’s TODAY, if you’re curious) to tell you the importance of sunglasses. Yes, they do make you look cool, but it’s more than just a fashion statement. Proper UV protection can reduce the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, pinguecula, pterygium and photokeratitis (corneal sunburn). Sunglasses can also protect the delicate skin around your eyes, prevent wrinkles and even cancer! About 10% of all skin cancers occur on the eyelids.
All right, we know UV rays can be harmful for eyes, but did you know that not all sunglasses protect your eyes against UV damage? Well, surely, if it says‘100%UV protection’ it must be good, right? Wrong! If you are not wearing lenses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, you could actually be causing more harm to your eyes because your pupils dilate behind the dark lenses, allowing more light enter your eyes.
We also recommend Polarized lenses because they reduce glare off horizontal surfaces like roads, water, and snow. Given the choice, most people prefer no glare. Also, don’t be tricked by overcast days. Approximately 80% of all UV light penetrates through clouds. Unfortunately, most of us have experienced unexpected sunburn on a cloudy day. Clouds scatter light and increase glare, making polarized lenses an ideal choice on those days.
The next point is going to blow your mind. Up to half of a person’s lifetime exposure to UV radiation occurs by age 18! UV protection is especially important for children because the lens inside of a child’s eye is crystal clear, which enables more light to enter the eye. Kids are our future; protect them!