When you think of sunglasses, you might picture beach days, road trips or a stylish accessory that completes your outfit. But sunglasses aren’t just for looks; they’ve been around for centuries. Ancient Chinese judges used flat panes of smoky quartz to shield their eyes in the 12th century, while Inuit people wore slitted snow goggles carved from bone to prevent snow blindness.
Today, sunglasses are important for your health, too. Beyond fashion, the benefits of sunglasses are clear: they block harmful UV rays, cut down on headaches and eye strain and help keep your vision strong. Here’s why wearing good sunglasses should be part of your daily routine.
Health Benefits of Sunglasses for Your Eyes
UV Protection and Eye Health
Just like your skin, your eyes can be harmed by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Too much exposure raises your risk for eye diseases from UV like cataracts and sunburn of the eye (photokeratitis). Sunglasses help protect your eyes. The best sunglasses for UV protection block 100% of UVA and UVB rays (look for UV400). Think of them as sunscreen for your eyes: they lower long-term risks and help your vision stay sharp.
Preventing Short-Term Irritation
Have you ever spent a day outside without sunglasses and ended up squinting or with eyes that felt watery and irritated? That’s actually a kind of sunburn on your eyes called photokeratitis. Wearing sunglasses helps protect your eyes from this discomfort, making it easier to enjoy time outdoors while also keeping your eyes healthy.
Preventing Long-Term Eye Damage
Eye health isn’t just about today—it’s about protecting your vision for the future. Chronic sun exposure can accelerate age-related eye conditions, such as cataracts. What’s great is that wearing sunglasses regularly helps protect your vision as you age!
Protecting Children’s Eye Health
Children’s eyes are more sensitive to the sun than adults’, and they tend to spend more time outside. That’s why sunglasses with UV protection are so important to them. Starting early helps kids build healthy habits and protect their eyes from long-term damage.
Sun protection is only one part of keeping young eyes healthy. Regular checkups are also important. Check out our blog on vision insurance for infants and children to learn more.
Sunglasses and Your Overall Health
Protecting Skin Around the Eyes
The skin around your eyes is thin and delicate. This makes it easy to wrinkle and more likely to get skin cancer. Wide or wraparound sunglasses protect this sensitive skin.
Reducing Headaches and Migraines
Bright sunlight can trigger headaches or migraines. Polarized and UV-blocking sunglasses reduce glare, eye strain and light sensitivity. For people with migraines, this can make a big difference.
Tips for Choosing the Right Sunglasses
- Look for 100% UVA and UVB protection (UV400).
- Choose polarized lenses for driving and outdoor sports.
- Try larger or wraparound frames for more coverage.
- Dark lenses don’t always mean UV protection—make sure to check the label!
DeltaVision’s One & Sun Program
Want to make sure you’re covered? DeltaVision’s One & Sun program rewards you for getting your eye exam with a pair of sunglasses. Protecting your eyes can be as simple as seeing your provider
Don’t Leave Home Without Sunglasses
Sunglasses are more than a fashion choice; they’re a key part of protecting your eyes and your health! Wearing them daily means clearer vision, healthier skin, fewer headaches and long-term benefits. Next time you go outside, don’t forget your shades!
FAQs About Sunglasses and Eye Health
Are sunglasses necessary for eye health?
Yes, sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays, glare and other irritants.
Why are sunglasses so important?
Sunglasses lower your risk of eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration and protect the skin around your eyes.
What health issues require sunglasses?
Sunglasses help prevent or slow the progression of cataracts, growths on the eye (pterygium) and UV-related skin cancers.
Do sunglasses protect your eyes?
Yes, sunglasses protect your eyes—as long as they block 100% of UVA and UVB rays (UV400).
Do polarized sunglasses protect your eyes?
Yes, polarized sunglasses cut glare and make it easier to see outside. They work best when you pair them with UV protection.
How do sunglasses protect your eyes?
Sunglasses act like a shield, blocking UV rays, reducing glare and keeping out dust and wind that can harm your eyes.
