Sunglasses are not just fashion statements or travel must-haves. They are your eye’s best friend while you enjoy that quick city stroll on a sunny afternoon or drive through a scenic route. Wondering why? One reason only: UV Protection.
That’s right. They shield your eyes from the unseen yet harmful, damaging effects of UV radiation, which can lead to a lasting impact on your eye. In this blog, we will walk you through how sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and what may happen if you don’t invest in a good pair. Let’s start.
Breaking Down UV Radiation’s Effects on Your Eyes
The sun emits 3 kinds of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC. Although the UVC radiation doesn’t reach us, thanks to Earth’s ozone layer protection, UVA and UVB rays get past it. Mind you, they are very powerful, so much so that they can harm your skin and delicate eyes on prolonged exposure.
Yes, you read it right. Just like our skin can experience burns from harsh UV exposure, our eyes can get affected as well and which may require an eye treatment. Let’s see how.
1. Photokeratitis
It is a temporary yet painful condition that results from too much exposure to UV rays for too long. It is usually called “sunburn of the eye” and affects the cornea in particular. The result is redness, irritation, tears, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the lens clouding causes vision to blur, putting people at risk of blindness. UVB radiation accelerates this clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision and increasing the chances of developing cataracts.
Also Read: What Are the Different Types of Cataracts: Causes and Treatment Options
3. Pterygium
It is an expected, non-cancerous growth on the eye’s surface, otherwise known as “surfer’s eye.” It is widespread in individuals who spend long hours outdoors in sunny or windy conditions.
4. Macular Degeneration
Although Macular degeneration is often an age-related concern that affects the retina, UV ray exposure can increase this risk, affecting one’s ability to see the finer details or read as well.
5. Skin Cancer
UV exposure is one of the primary causes of skin cancer. And the skin around your eyes? Well, they are more delicate than ever! As a result, UV rays can increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma near the eyes.
Why does UV Protection in Sunglasses Matter?
It may be tempting to buy ‘cheap’ sunglasses, but if you are out and about most of the time, you’ve got to be picky.
First, a good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes from UV radiation and other environmental factors like dirt and dust. Second, sunglasses can also reduce glare and increase your visual comfort, especially if they are polarized or tinted. This reduces your risk of developing wrinkles, fine lines, and even skin cancer around the eyes.
Sunglasses that offer UV protection are often labeled as “100% UV protection” or “UV400 protection.” These labels mean that they can block both UVA and UVB radiations. Additionally, you can opt for larger frames or wrap-round style glasses that offer more coverage. As a result, they protect your eyes from the UV rays coming from the sides as well.
Finally, it is important to choose the lens color well. While the color of the lens doesn’t directly impact UV protection, it can improve comfort by reducing glare. So, opt for colors like gray, brown, or green.
Also Read:5 Eye Health Tips Essential for Optimal Vision
Other Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses
Besides UV protection, sunglasses offer alternate benefits in your daily life. Here are some of them:
- Prevent sunlight-induced headaches and migraines
- Reduces strain on your eyes
- Prevents glares
- Protects your eyes from wind and dust
- Prevents early aging of the skin around the eyes
Conclusion
It is easy to assume that any pair of sunglasses can offer UV rays protection. However, that’s not true. Only sunglasses with the labels mentioned above can protect your eyes. Remember, protecting your eyes is essential, not just in summer but all year round. Mind you, don’t skip your sunglasses on cloudy days. You will need them even then because when things boil down to your eyes, it is best to do everything in your power for the ultimate protection!
If still the problem persists, book an appointment with our eye specialist at Shree Ramkrishna Netralaya, one of the best eye hospitals in Navi Mumbai.