Why Sunglasses Are Needed Year-Round

When the temperature starts to drop, think twice before dropping the shades.

When you think of wearing sunglasses, you might imagine yourself at the beach lounging beneath an umbrella with a chilled drink in one hand and a nice book in the other. Admittedly, that sounds wonderful, but this scene represents a common misconception: sunglasses are only useful in warm weather.

This is far from the case.

Sunglasses are worn primarily for protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays (although some designers are known to emphasize other features). UV rays are a type of radiation that exist in sunlight at all times, regardless of the presence or absence of heat. These rays are responsible for suntan, sunburn, skin damage, and even skin cancer.

And your eyes are at just as much risk as your skin.

Overexposure to UV rays can damage the protective outer layer of the eye called the cornea. This may lead to the development of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye complications. Whatever the specific condition one develops, the result is going to be poorer vision.

To help slow the onset of these issues (or prevent them entirely), the lenses in a pair of sunglasses contain a special coating that shields your eyes from 100% of this harmful radiation. Now does that sound like the kind of protection you want only some of the time?

Again, the winter sun is still the sun. Although the sunlight is less intense during this season due to the way it hits the Earth, it is still home to the ultraviolet rays capable of making the eye problems listed above an awful reality. That is, unless you continue wearing sunglasses throughout these colder months.

Sunglasses offer additional perks, as well. If you live in a climate that produces snow, then you’re no stranger to the harsh glare of sunlight off a snowy surface. Polarized lenses protect your eyes by filtering out reflected light, making activities like driving much easier and safer. Sunglasses can also be very fashionable, and many people add them to their outfits without even realizing the health benefits!

So find that pair of sunglasses you thought to forget about until next spring ASAP.