As we are all out and about, enjoying the outdoors and the nice, warm weather, it is important to remember the importance of wearing sunglasses for eye protection. Did you know that not wearing sunglasses can cause eye damage like cataracts and growth on your eye? Yes, sunglasses are a great fashion accessory, but more importantly they should be worn to protect your eyes.
While sunglasses are essential for maintaining your retinal health throughout the year, wearing them during spring and summer months is vital, because the sun’s rays are much stronger. Eye care specialists heavily recommend wearing sunglasses whenever you are outside for maximized protection from the sun’s damaging UVA and UVB rays. Getting in the habit of wearing sunglasses helps to keep retinas and eye tissue safe and strong. So, whether you’re at the beach all day, watching the kids at the pool, running errands in your car, or just going for a quick walk, don’t forget to wear your sunglasses!
It is also important to note that all sunglasses are not made equally and sometimes, it can be difficult to choose the right pair. Unfortunately, the standard eye protection needed in any given pair of sunglasses is not always part of the manufacturing process. Although box store sunglasses are much less expensive than brand sunglasses like Maui Jims, for example, the protective UV coating wears off the top layer over time. This causes your eyes to no longer have protection from UVA and UVB rays.
The old adage “you get what you pay for” holds true with sunglasses. So, brands like Maui Jim, Oakley, Ray Bans, etc. will have longer-lasting UV protection built into the lens. Even with regular cleaning, this protection cannot be rubbed off, minimizing the chances for harmful rays to negatively affect eyesight and retinal health. So, it may seem like you’re overpaying for sunglasses, but you will probably save money and time at the eye doctor’s office in the long run because you have invested in sunglasses that provide proper eye protection.
If you would like to talk with one of our eye care specialists about proper eye protection and how you can keep your eyes healthy during the warmer months (and year-round), contact us today to schedule an appointment with Providence Eye & Laser Specialists. Dr. Vanessa Mills is now accepting new patients over the age of 10 for general eye care.
