Why Wear Sunglasses? Key Benefits to Protecting Eyes
Why wear sunglasses?
Most of us tend to wear sunglasses as a fashion statement and because they offer protection from UV light on a sunny day.
A good pair of sunglasses is a must for everyone, especially if you live somewhere with more intense light, like Florida.
Below we’ll break down more about why it’s essential to wear sunglasses and we’ll also share some of our favorite shades!
Why Wear Sunglasses: 4 Benefits
1. Protection from UV Rays
Protecting your eyes from UV rays with appropriate sunglasses is key to preventing permanent eye damage, especially if you spend long hours outdoors.
When choosing a pair of high quality sunglasses, be sure they provide UVB protection and are not just designer sunglasses meant only for fashion.
2. Preventing Fine Lines and Wrinkles on the Face
There is very delicate skin around our eyes, and too much exposure to bright sunlight can really have an adverse effect on that skin.
Aside from a serious eye condition potentially forming, you can also develop skin cancer without the proper eye protection.
The best way to avoid skin cancer, fine lines, and wrinkles on the skin around your eyes is to wear a high-quality pair of sunglasses.
3. Reducing Color Distortion
A general rule to keep in mind is that polarized lenses will reduce color distortion and will actually allow you to see things in the color they are.
With traditional sunglasses, you will see that colors look different than they are.
4. Better Vision in the Snow
UV-blocking sunglasses are not just for those in warmer, sunnier places.
The glare of the sun actually reflects light off of the snow, which can cause discomfort and distort vision, known as snow blindness.
With that being said, be sure you have your sunglasses on for outdoor sports such as the ski slopes!
The Importance of Protecting Your Eyes
If you don’t wear sunglasses the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage not just your eye but the surrounding areas as well, often causing permanent damage.
You can start to develop eye conditions such as cataracts, pterygium, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, which cause all kinds of vision problems.
Another reason it is a good idea to protect your eyes and the surrounding skin areas is to prevent skin cancer from forming in the skin around your eyes.
It’s a great idea to have a few pairs of sunglasses that you will actually wear and keep one pair in your car, house, and purse.
This way, you will always have a pair handy, even if you forget them at home.
Ultraviolet Light and UV Damage
The sun’s UV rays will modify your lens proteins and start to worsen eyesight long-term if you don’t protect your eyes.
Over time, cataracts can occur, which will make your vision super blurry, less colorful, and even a bit hazy.
You can either have long-term or short-term effects from sun exposure, which is why it is best to protect your eyes from UV exposure at all times.
Sources of Ultraviolet Radiation/Light
- UVC: These are the most harmful UV rays and cause the most damage because they have the highest energy.
- UVB: UVB rays are lower in energy, but they still cause damage to your eyes. This type of UV radiation is what causes photokeratitis if you are overexposed to it.
- UVA: These are the rays that, if exposed to for a long time, can cause cataracts and macular degeneration because the rays pass through the cornea and the lens of your eye.
Sun Safety Tips for Eyes
Wear Sunglasses
Wear quality sunglasses that block 99-100% UVA and UVB radiation in all weather conditions.
The right sunglasses for those that work outside or are outside often are those that are made from polycarbonate, and wrap around your face more for added protection.
You don’t only need sunglasses on a sunny summer day. You still need UV protection on cloudy days during the winter months, too!
Wear Goggles in Tanning Beds
If you use a tanning bed, wear those goggles! The UV levels in tanning beds are incredibly high.
It may seem silly at the moment, but if you spend a lot of time in tanning beds, those lights will cause serious damage to your eyes if you don’t protect them.
Wear UV-Blocking Contacts
If you wear contacts, choose a pair that protects against the sun’s rays.
Schedule regular eye exams
Although you may not think you need an eye exam until you have medical reasons, you should regularly get your eyes checked to prevent the risk of eye diseases.
It is a better option than waiting until you need it, and it may be too late!
Symptoms of Eye Damage
- Bright light sensitivity
- Seeing halos
- Blurry vision
- Sensitive skin around your eyes
- Dry eyes
- Eye strain
- Redness or discomfort in the eyes
- Eyelid twitching
- Gritty feeling in the eyes
- Eye swelling
- Temporary loss of vision
Our Favorite Trendy Sunglasses
If you don’t already have a great pair of sunglasses, you’re in luck!
We’ve rounded up some of the best sunglasses on the market that are both stylish while also offering protection from the sun’s glare:
Rae-Ban Sunglasses
If you prefer to stick with well-known brands when it comes to eyewear, Rae-ban is one to consider. We love this style because they come in many color options and offer 100% UV protection.
Butterfly Sunglasses
There are so many different types of sun lenses, but an oversized style will always be my go-to.
This butterfly style offers 100% UV protection and even comes with a soft pouch to carry them in.
Oversized Sunglasses
If you like big sunglasses but prefer a more square shape, these are a great choice!
Lightweight Metal Sunglasses
These square sunglasses have a metal chain design on the sides and a lighter lens color.
Polarized Oversized Trendy Sun Glasses
These oversized sunglasses have a UV protection coating making them a great choice for fashion and eye health.
Cat Eye Sunglasses
These retro style sunglasses also 100% UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Vintage Polarized Retro Sunglasses
I love these glasses with the thinner frames and the fact that you get styles with both light and dark lenses.
Conclusion
The bottom line is, there are so many good reasons to wear sunglasses.
When shopping for the right pair of sunglasses, make sure you look for UV protection and get high-quality sunglasses that will protect your eyes from strong sunlight.
Although it might not seem like it’s necessary, it’s important to wear sunglasses even in the colder months.
We hope you found something above that not only fits your personal style but offers the protection you’re looking for!
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