How many times have you heard someone say, “You don’t need sunglasses when the sun isn’t out,” or “The darker the tint of the lenses the more UV protection is has.” Probably more times than you can remember. Today we are going to share and dispel a few common misconceptions about sunglasses as they apply to you and your children, with the hope that more people stop falling prey to the age-old myths and begin protecting their eyes.
- Darker sunglasses provide more protection than those with less tint.
- The amount of UV protection is independent of the amount of tint.
- Cheap sunglasses are better than no sunglasses.
- The price of sunglasses does not guarantee the amount of UV protection needed or provided.
- Kids do not need sunglasses.
- Childhood is the critical time to begin eye protection because children spend more time outside and their eyes aren’t capable of the same level of natural protection as adults.
- The UV information on all sunglasses is accurate and meaningful.
- Sometimes the UV information may not be accurate or meaningful, which is why you should always purchase from established and reputable companies. If you are questioning the UV protection of you or your child’s sunglasses your optometrist can measure the level of protection with a UV meter.
- Sunglasses are only needed on sunny days.
- UV light exposure can be as great or even greater on cloudy days. Sunglasses should be worn whenever you are head outside for an extended amount of time, because UV rays are present just as much on cloudy days.
- The style of the sunglasses doesn’t matter as long as the lenses provide 100% UV protection.
- Sunglass lenses should not allow significant stray light to enter from the sides; wraparound-style lenses help minimize the risk.
Begin protecting your child’s vision now by ordering a pair of Real Kids Shades that feature 100% UV protection.