It’s finally summertime and you’ve been waiting all week for the perfect beach weekend! The cooler is packed, sunscreen has been applied, floaties have been inflated and your favorite swimsuit is on. Next stop: paradise.
But wait! You’ve lost your sunglasses (again!) and need to quickly get a pair before beginning your staycation. Not to worry – the gas station sells them, so you run in to buy a pair. Yet, as you make your selection from the rack, you pause and wonder: Do cheap sunglasses actually offer protection?
“The best way to differentiate good sunglasses from bad sunglasses is by first understanding what ultraviolet radiation is and how it can be harmful,” says White-Wilson Ophthalmologist Dr. Julian Tokarev.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of radiation that is present in sunlight. “It is known for allowing the body to produce vitamin D, an important vitamin for human health,” explains Dr. Tokarev. While it certainly has its benefits, exposure only in small quantities is recommended. In fact, The World Health Organization recommends 5 to 15 minutes of sun exposure two to three times every week.
“People typically associate UV radiation with a sunburn, which is why sunscreen should be applied to the skin prior to going out into the sun,” continues Dr. Tokarev. “However, your eyes are also susceptible to damage from UV radiation, which means wearing sunglasses is just as important.”
Failing to protect your eyes from sunlight can lead to long-term problems and even potentially blinding eye diseases, so ensuring you select the right pair of sunglasses is essential. That being said, just because a pair is inexpensive does not mean they are “bad sunglasses,” just like an expensive pair does not guarantee they are “good sunglasses.”
“At the end of the day, what constitutes quality protection when it comes to sunglasses is the amount of UV rays that they block,” says Dr. Tokarev. “If you find a pair with a label that indicates UV 400 or 100% UV-blocking, this means it offers maximum defense and you will be good to go. It’s important not to settle for less because harm may occur.”
Dr. Tokarev emphasizes that there are many inexpensive sunglasses out there that offer full protection, but you just need to keep your eye out for a label and imprint that confirms this. Whether you are considering name brand or generic, be sure to check the level of UV protection and opt for the maximum. While you should also take into consideration additional features such as comfort, visibility and glare protection when making your selection, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a low-cost, adequate pair in a pinch.
Dr. Julian Tokarev leads the White-Wilson Medical Center Ophthalmology Clinic in Fort Walton Beach and cares for patients of all ages. He is a comprehensive ophthalmologist who is able to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions in adults. Learn more about Dr. Tokarev and his approach to patient care here.
