Glasses that don’t block UV rays may offer some relief from visible light and reduce your need to squint, but the additional exposure to UVA and UVB can be harmful.

Sunglasses without UVA and UVB protection simply filter out the ambient light but they don’t do anything to protect you. Exposure to UVA and UVB rays may increase the risk for cataracts, or macular degeneration. Every pair of sunglasses we recommend including tinted and polarised lenses, as well as UV treatments for your regular every-day pair of glasses.

 

What type of sunglasses best protect from UV rays?

Not only should the UV entering the eye be blocked but people need to realize that the skin around the eyes is very sensitive to sun exposure. A sunglass frame that fits very close to the face is essential in preventing UV rays from entering above or to the side of the frame, especially if you are not wearing a hat.
When you’re choosing sunglasses, look for UV-protection details on product labels. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Sunglasses should be labeled UV 400.

I’ve heard of getting my skin sunburned, but can your eyes also get sunburned?

Photokeratitis or ultraviolet keratitis is a painful eye condition caused by exposure of insufficiently protected eyes to the ultraviolet (UV) rays from either natural or artificial sources. Photokeratitis is akin to sunburn of the cornea and conjunctiva, and is not usually noticed until several hours after exposure. Symptoms include increased tears and a feeling of pain, likened to having sand in the eyes. If you experience such symptoms, consult your optometrist.

Do darker sunglasses mean better sun protection?

No. The UV protection offered by a lens is independent of the darkness of the tint. Tint is a personal preference and certain colours and degrees of darkness may be suitable depending on the visual task being performed.