Why is it important to wear Sunglasses?

The number one reason is protection but, the number two reason in my opinion is cosmetics. FDA approved sunglasses are regulated by standards and are listed as a Class I medical device. However, in Europe sunglasses are considered “personal protective wear”.

Even though 75% of Americans report having concerns about UV eye exposure, less than one- third (31%) wear sunglasses every time they go outside, according to the 2016 Vision/watch survey of more than 10,000 adults 18 and older. UVA/UVB protection should be the most important consideration in choosing a pair of shades.

Many Americans are only wearing sunglasses after being outside 2 or more hours (39%), even though damage can start in as little as 15 minutes. Additionally, activities in which UV-eye protection is vital are often being done with exposed eyes – only 14% of Americans are likely to wear sunglasses while watching an outdoor sporting event and only 44% are likely to wear sunglasses at the beach. Ironically most Americans believe that darker sunglasses provide better UV protection, although UV protection has nothing to do with darkness or color. Darkness protects you from glare which cause squinting.

Finally, the time of day that people choose to spend outdoors also contributes to the risk of UV damage more than 1/3 of adults go outside between the hours of 2 and 4 p.m., when UV exposure is at its highest.

This is especially true for people whose profession involves working outdoors or at high altitudes, from construction workers to pilots to professional athletes. A recent study found that people performing outdoor work were more likely to have eyelid tumors caused by UV radiation. Because of this increased risk and exposure, people who work outdoors should consider sunglasses a mandatory work accessory.