Buzz
When you head outdoors on a bright day, it’s easy to overlook the fact that your eyes, much like your skin, are vulnerable to sun damage. Regardless of the season or weather, the sun’s UV rays can cut through clouds and fog, posing a year-round threat to your eye health. Both UVA and UVB rays can bounce off surfaces such as water, snow, sand, and even buildings, amplifying your exposure and doubling the risk of UV harm in scenarios like skiing or beach outings.
How can you safeguard your eyes from such harm, which may cause redness, blurred vision, or even serious conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration? Sunglasses are a clear solution—but your fashionable pair might not offer the level of protection you assume. Here’s how to determine if you’re choosing the right kind.
Seek optimal protection—check the label carefully.
Every pair of sunglasses should come with a label specifying its level of protection. According to Askia Saunders, OD, an optometrist at Eyeconic in Chicago, always opt for sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA and UVB absorption, or UV 400 protection.
What do these numbers signify? According to Saunders, the sun emits three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. These rays have wavelengths of 400 nanometers or less, but UVC is absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere, leaving UVA and UVB as the primary threats to both your skin and eyes. Sunglasses labeled UV 400 block wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, effectively providing 100 percent protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Don’t take every label at face value.
While it may seem straightforward, not all sunglasses labels are reliable. The FDA regulates sunglasses as medical devices since they aim to reduce or prevent sun damage to your eyes. However, consumer tests reveal that the claims on stickers aren’t always truthful, particularly with inexpensive imported brands. (That $10 pair might not be the bargain it seems.)
Purchase your sunglasses from a trusted provider.
Rather than buying sunglasses from any random retailer, take the time to research and ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable source. Consult your eye doctor for recommendations on brands that offer the best eye protection. While you don’t need to splurge on the most expensive pair, opting for the cheapest option isn’t advisable either.
Darker lenses don’t always mean better protection.
A common misconception is that darker sunglasses offer superior UV protection. However, the level of shading or lens color has no bearing on UV defense. Saunders explains, "Dark lenses lacking proper UV protection can be more harmful than wearing no sunglasses at all, as they cause the pupil to dilate, increasing retinal exposure to unfiltered UV rays."
Consider trying polarized lenses.
Polarized lenses, such as those from Costa Del Mar, are an excellent choice for reducing glare from reflective surfaces like water or glass. Saunders notes that these lenses can minimize eye strain and discomfort caused by bright sunlight, enhancing visual comfort.
Fashionable sunglasses can still offer top-notch protection.
You don’t need to sacrifice style for proper eye protection. Oversized frames, popular among Hollywood celebrities, are a great option as they offer additional UV defense by blocking rays that enter from the sides.
Finding sunglasses that combine full eye protection with a fashionable look is entirely achievable. Saunders recommends styles like retro-inspired Salvatore Ferragamo sunglasses, sunshield designs from DKNY, and a rose-tinted, 90s-inspired pair from Chloe.
