by: Nina Bradley

With summer in full swing, sunglasses are an essential accessory. This is a great article on how to find the right sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Key Takeaways

• Not all sunglasses block UV rays. Look for UV400 or 100% UV protection on the tag.
• Darker lenses don’t mean better protection. Check the UV rating, not the tint.
• Polarized lenses reduce glare but don’t block UV rays on their own. Check for both features.
• Wraparound and oversized frames block UV from entering around the sides. Fit matters as much as the lens.
• UV damage to the eyes builds up over time. Skipping protection raises your long-term risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Medically reviewed by Alan Solinsky, MD

Most people pick sunglasses based on how they look. But a great frame means nothing without the right lens. The label on the lens is what makes the difference, and most people never think to check it.

We asked Alan Solinsky, MD, an ophthalmologist with Hartford HealthCare, to explain exactly what to look for the next time you buy a pair.

“The most common mistake I see is people assuming that because their sunglasses are dark, they’re protected,” says Dr. Solinsky. “Lens darkness has nothing to do with UV protection. You need to look for the UV rating.”

Here’s why UV protection sunglasses matter, and what to look for the next time you buy a pair.

1. UV protection is the most important label to consider for eye safety

Sunglasses labeled “100% UV protection” or “UV400” block the full range of UVA and UVB rays. That’s the label that tells you your eyes are being protected.

“That’s your standard. If a pair of sunglasses doesn’t have the UV400 or 100% UV protection label, your eyes are not fully protected,” says Dr. Solinsky.

Price is also not a reliable indicator. A $15 pair from a drugstore with a UV400 label offers more protection than a $300 designer frame without it.

Read more: How to Choose Sunglasses That Actually Protect Your Eyes – Health News Hub

Source: Hartford HealthCare