Are you in the market for new sunglasses? It’s the season where some spend hundreds of dollars for designer glasses, while others buy theirs at the grocery store. But when shopping, what are you looking for – how they look, or how well they protect your eyes?

While many pairs from top fashion brands like Prada and Bulgari can cost almost half a grand, is that the best investment for your eyes? When you look to add to your summer accessories, don’t go shopping for looks alone. Here are some critical areas to research when shopping for new sunglasses to protect your precious vision from the sun’s dangerous UV rays.

What to Know About Sunglasses

People may not realize it, but the sun’s rays expose us to many health risks concerning our eyes. According to one report from the Vision Council, only 31% of American adults wear sunglasses every time they go outdoors, yet more than one in three adults has experienced symptoms of UV exposure on their eyes. That’s unfortunate, because wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection is an easy way to reduce potential vision impairment and eye health risks.

Sun damage is harmful to eye health and can increase the risk for corneal sunburn, irritation, and redness. It also may cause eyelid skin cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, and blindness. And, did you know up to 10% of skin cancer occurs around the eyes?

The risk of developing eye disease from UV exposure is more significant for people with lighter-colored eyes, though those with brown or black eyes are also at risk.

And don’t forget about your children. Sunglasses with the proper UV protection are critical for kids while their eyes are still developing. UV exposure at a young age could affect them later in life.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses

While comfort and style play a significant role in choosing sunglasses, lenses also make a considerable difference. Don’t believe the myth that darker lenses provide more protection. The first rule is to choose sunglasses that offer 100% UV coverage.

Different lens tints are beneficial for various activities. Polarized sunglasses help reduce glare and reflection off surfaces like water and snow. Some sunglasses eliminate 99.9% of glare. Popular lens colors like brown and gray serve a unique purpose. Gray lenses provide the most realistic color perception. They are typically dark enough for comfort in bright conditions. Meanwhile, brown-tinted lenses offer better depth perception.

Wider lenses, close-fitting, and wraparound sunglasses provide more coverage to help protect delicate eyelid skin. They help block irritants and allergens from your eyes on windy days.

So, when you’re choosing your sunglasses this summer, think less about fashion and more about UV protection. It will pay dividends in protecting you and your children’s eyes from dangerous UV rays.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey to better vision, contact Will Vision & Laser Centers today. We’re excited to welcome you into our practice and for you to “See the Difference.”

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