The American Academy of Ophthalmology Shares Tips for Choosing Protective Sunglasses

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recently shared essential tips for choosing sunglasses that protect against the sun's damaging UV rays, especially during the summertime. According to the release, long-term unprotected exposure to the sun may “increase the risk of eye disease, including cataract, growths on the eye, and eye cancer.” The following are AAO’s seven tips for choosing the most ideal sunglasses for eye protection:

1. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB radiation.
2. When in doubt, take the sunglasses to an optical shop or an ophthalmologist’s office. Most have a UV light meter that can test the UV-blocking ability of sunglasses.
3. The more coverage from sunglasses, the less sun damage inflicted on the eyes. Consider buying larger, oversized glasses or wraparound-style glasses, which help cut down on UV entering the eye from the side.
4. Darker lenses do not automatically guarantee UV protection.
5. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective as pricier options.
6. Encourage children to practice eye protection at an early age.
7. Polarized lenses reduce glare coming off reflective surfaces like water or pavement. While they do not offer greater UV protection, they can make activities like driving or being on the water safer or more enjoyable.

Short-term exposure can also be damaging. Even the sun’s reflection from the water can cause a painful sunburn (called photokeratitis) on the front part of the eye. Effects include redness, blurry vision, sensitivity to bright light, and, in rare cases, even temporary vision loss.

"Think of sunglasses as sunscreen for your eyes," said Dianna Seldomridge, MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "Your eyes need protection from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays just like your skin. Make sure your eyes are protected year-round. Harmful UV rays are present even on cloudy days."

Full news release: https://www.aao.org/newsroom/news-releases/detail/how-to-pick-best-sunglasses-to-protect-your-eyes