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Do I Need Sunglasses?
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Many people think of sunglasses as a stylish fashion accessory in the summer, and they would probably answer this question with “yes, of course!” In fact, they're right. Sunglasses are an important way to keep your eyes healthy, as they will protect your eyes from bright light and harmful UV radiation from the sun. You should absolutely keep a pair of sunglasses around, and if you wear glasses, you should acquire a pair of prescription sunglasses.
Many people wear sunglasses in the summer because they work to protect the eyes from bright light and glare. Skiers also like to wear sunglasses and goggles out on the slopes, since the glare from snow can get quite strong. However, it's also important to wear sunglasses even when it's not bright out, since UV radiation can still filter through clouds and fog. You may want to consider getting two pairs: one pair with darkly tinted lenses for summer use, and a pair with more mild tinting which still retains UV protection for the winter.
Cataracts, macular degeneration, and skin cancers around the eyes have all been linked to UV exposure. These conditions can lead to eventual blindness if they are not addressed, and they can still be painful and expensive to treat. It's much better to simply wear sunglasses and protect your eyes. You can also, of course, look stylish in the process.
Sunglasses are especially important for people who are taking medications which increase sensitivity to light. Your doctor should tell you if a drug will make you more light-sensitive, and he or she may recommend sunglasses for comfort and eye protection. Children should also wear sunglasses, since their eyes are also very vulnerable to UV radiation. According to Prevent Blindness America, children's eyes do not have the more developed UV protection that adults' eyes do.
You should take some time when picking out sunglasses. Find a pair which are comfortable and which fit well with your personal aesthetic, but also look for glasses which will filter out at least 99% of UV-A and UV-B rays. Try to find sunglasses which will not distort color, as well, since this will keep you more comfortable as you navigate the world. Avoid small sunglasses which do not completely protect your eyes and the surrounding skin, and remember not to wear sunglasses at night, especially when you are driving.
Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.
Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
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![People who spend significant time outdoors should wear sunglasses.]()
By: Darren BakerPeople who spend significant time outdoors should wear sunglasses. -
![Sunglasses.]()
By: Pavlo VakhrushevSunglasses. -
![A pair of polarized sunglasses.]()
By: Ljupco SmokovskiA pair of polarized sunglasses. -
![Face shapes may help determine sunglass styles.]()
By: javiindyFace shapes may help determine sunglass styles. -
![Sunglasses can help keep a person's eyes healthy.]()
By: MiravisionSunglasses can help keep a person's eyes healthy. -
![Sunglasses can offer protection from sunlight that could damage the eyes.]()
By: Sergey FurtaevSunglasses can offer protection from sunlight that could damage the eyes.
Discussion Comments
Yes, that is right, and a reason why some companies have invented double purpose sunglasses, for prescription and fashion use.
I personally will not wear sunglasses. I find that I'm fine without them, even in the brightest light, and I'm over age 50. Anytime I've had them, I just lose them (and get yelled at by my wife). The easy solution for me is not to wear them.
To anon197633: A wide-brimmed hat may shade the sun from your eyes, but not the damaging ultra-violet (UV) rays. For that, you need a pair of sunglasses with UV protection. Make sure the pair you buy says "UV Protection" or "UV filtered" (or something similar) on the tag. Note: Polarized lenses are a good feature, but it is *not* the same as UV protection.
Do I need to wear sun glasses if I always wear a wide brimmed hat when I'm outside?
sunglasses are really necessary. Please tell me a good brand.
I've seen some people getting used to sun glasses and all of sudden when removed they really cannot bear the original light!
Hence you become too sensitive to light!
It is better to wear no sunglasses than to wear a cheap pair without adequate UV protection. That's because dark lenses widen the pupils, letting in even more damaging ultraviolet rays if there is not proper protection.
If you already wear glasses, you don't have to buy prescription sunglasses. Those are very expensive. You can get clip-ons or fitovers. They fit over your glasses, and there really not that big!
I really have to have sunglasses. I remember, even when very young I was squinting, and too much sunlight bothered me. The worst thing was taking pictures outdoors. My eyes would start watering, and I simply could not look into the camera for more then a few seconds. So for me sunglasses are a must, and I can only assume that other people feel the same way.
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