Sunglasses are not only a fashionable way to accessorize an outfit, but are also your first step in protecting your sight.
When you live in a tropical climate, it may be nearly impossible to escape the sun’s rays or the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation it emits. Sunglasses can help you to see when it’s sunny out, as well as help to preserve your eyesight. Read on to find out why you should pop on a pair.
7 Reasons to Wear Sunglasses
1. UV Protection
One of the most important reasons to wear sunglasses, UV radiation is the most common cause of eye-related damage. Without protection, exposure to UV rays can actually increase your chances of developing conditions such as cataracts, sunburn of the eyes, or even the degradation of vision. Wearing sunglasses that offer UV protection all year round can help to protect your sight and reduce the risk of eye conditions.
2. Protect the skin around your eyes
Sunglasses may also help to prevent other diseases caused by UV exposure, such as skin cancer around the eyes. As it is some of the thinnest skin on the body, the skin on your eyelid or the skin surrounding your eyes is incredibly prone to sun damage. Sunglasses that offer protection against UV rays can not only protect your eyes but also provide coverage to the skin around them.
3. Prevent headaches or migraines
For those who suffer from painful headaches or migraines, bright light is often a common trigger. Sunglasses with polarized frames may be helpful in this instance, as the polarized lenses darken what you see while making objects appear crisper and clearer. This may make it easier for you to handle bright, sunny days, without worrying about a headache or a migraine.
4. Reduce eye strain
By blocking light and the UV rays that accompany it, sunglasses may actually help your eyes to feel less tired and strained on sunny days. For people who participate in activities that are under the sun all day, such as fishing, golfing, or even snowboarding, sunglasses may help to cut the glare and reduce eye fatigue.
5. Protect your eyes from wind or debris
While UV rays are one of the main concerns when it comes to eye protection, sunglasses can also offer a physical barrier between your eyes and the environment. On windy days, sunglasses can help to shield your eyes from any physical risks that may be in the air. Sunglasses that wrap around your face can provide more protection against such elements, and even block UV rays from entering your eyes from the side.
Protect your eyes now
Before you purchase any pair of sunglasses, make sure that they are certified to block 99% to 100% of UV rays in order to ensure that your eyes are properly protected. Polarized lenses, while helpful, may not actually block UV rays unless specified. If you are looking to get a pair, look for polarized lenses that also include a special UV ray-blocking material. Beyond that, you should also avoid going out when the sun is at its hottest, such as from 8 to 10am and 2 to 4pm, in order to UV rays when they are at their peak.
References
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/sunglasses-protect-eyes
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-why-sunglasses-are-a-must-wear/
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/polarized-lenses
