Do Sunglasses Really Protect Your Eyes from Sun Damage? (Yes—Here’s How)

While many of us are aware of how the sun can damage our skin, far fewer realize the serious risks it poses to our eyes. In fact, nearly 70% of people don’t know that sun damage to eyes can be just as dangerous—and sometimes irreversible. From short-term irritation to long-term vision problems, unprotected exposure to UV rays can have lasting consequences.
Even a few minutes in the sun without the right eyewear UV protection can result in eye damage. That’s why UV protection for eyes should be a daily habit whenever you're outdoors.
 

What Kind of Protection Do Sunglasses Provide?

Sunglasses do much more than reduce glare. High-quality ultraviolet protection sunglasses serve as a barrier against harmful UVA and UVB rays. These rays can penetrate the eye and damage critical structures over time, increasing the risk for conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer on the eyelids.

The highest UV sunglasses protection typically means lenses that block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays—sometimes labeled as "UV 400." Wrap-around frames offer added protection by reducing indirect UV exposure from the sides.

Want to explore stylish yet safe options? Browse our sunglasses collection featuring 100% UV blocking sunglasses for men, women, and children when you visit our locations.
 

Long-Term Effects: With or Without Sunglasses

Failing to wear UVA sunglasses regularly can increase your risk of:

• Photokeratitis: Like a sunburn to the eye—painful but temporary.
• Cataracts: Cloudy patches on the lens, which blur vision and may require surgery.
• Macular Degeneration: Damage to the part of the retina that handles sharp vision.
• Pterygium: A thick tissue growth on the white of the eye, often requiring surgery.
• Skin Cancer: Especially on the eyelids and surrounding skin, which is extremely delicate.

By contrast, consistent use of ultraviolet protection sunglasses reduces these risks dramatically—protecting your vision for years to come.