Why UV Protection Matters When You’re Choosing Sunglasses

Sunglasses can add an effortlessly cool vibe to any outfit. But they also have a big job to do.

The right sunglasses will shield your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, reduce glare and protect the delicate skin around your eyes. That matters because long-term exposure to sunlight can increase your risk of eye problems later in life.

But not all sunglasses offer the same level of protection. Knowing what to look for can help you choose a pair that protects your eyes — without compromising on fashion.

UV protection and sunglasses

Sunlight contains ultraviolet radiation, including UVA and UVB rays. Beyond making you squint, that assault on your eyes can cause real damage.

“Ultraviolet light from the sun can harm the structures in the back of your eye over time,” warns optometrist Chris Erwin, OD. “Good sunglasses act like sunscreen for your eyes by blocking harmful rays.”

UV protection sunglasses block or reflect those rays before they reach those sensitive parts of your peepers. Without proper UVB and UVA protection, you risk long-term sun exposure that can raise your risk for eye conditions like:

• Cataracts, which can cause cloudy patches that affect your vision
• Macular degeneration, which causes central vision loss
• Damage to your retinas, the seeing part of your eye
• Eye strain and dry, sensitive or itching eyes

UV exposure can also affect the delicate skin around your eyes, increasing the risk of wrinkles and skin damage. And, of course, those powerful rays are a leading cause of skin cancer.

“You should really think of sunglasses as everyday protective gear,” Dr. Erwin encourages. “Like your skin, your eyes are exposed to UV light whenever you’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.”

How to pick sunglasses that protect your eyes

When you’re shopping for new shades, UV protection comes first. Check for labels that say “UV400” or “100% UV protection.”

“The most important feature in sunglasses is full UV protection,” Dr. Erwin emphasizes. “You don’t need the most expensive pair, but you do want to make sure they truly block ultraviolet light.”

Beyond that, other key features to look for include:

• Large or wraparound frames: Sunglasses that cover more of your face help block sunlight from reaching your eyes from the sides.
• Polarized lenses: While polarization doesn’t add UV protection, it reduces glare from reflective surfaces like water and roads. That can be especially important if you’ve had vision correction surgery, like LASIK.
• Reputable brands or retailers: Reliable manufacturers test their products to confirm that the UV protection of their sunglasses meets safety standards.
• Lens color: “People often think darker lenses mean better protection, but that’s not necessarily true,” Dr. Erwin clarifies. “The tint of the lens doesn’t mean anything for UV protection. But gray lenses block more light than brown lenses on average, while yellow lenses boost contrast.”
• Style that works for you: Your sunglasses won’t do you a lick of good if they’re sitting on your dashboard, buried in your bag or perched on your head. Choose sunglasses that fit well and that you feel good in, so you’ll actually wear them.

And just like you teach your kids other habits for healthy fun in the sun — like wearing sunscreen and practicing water safety — wearing sunglasses should start young.

“Children as young as 6 months old should wear sunglasses,” Dr. Erwin advises. “Damage from UVA and UVB radiation is cumulative over a person’s lifetime, so it’s a good idea to teach your children how important it is to wear sunglasses.”

Bottom line: Pick the proper protection

If you’re having trouble choosing the right sunglasses for you, or you’re in the market for prescription sunglasses, talk with an eye care specialist, like an optometrist.

Ultimately, the best sunglasses are the ones you’ll actually wear. Choose UV protection above all else. And don’t worry, there are plenty of styles that will keep you looking — and seeing — your best.