National Sunglasses Day, celebrated every June 27, is a great reminder that protecting your eyes should be a daily habit – not just a summertime trend. If you reach for your favorite pair of shades because they look good or help with glare behind the wheel, you’re not wrong. But the real power of sunglasses goes far beyond aesthetics.
Sunglasses are a medical must-have for anyone who spends time outdoors – which, let’s face it, is all of us. Whether you're taking a walk, lounging at a backyard barbecue, or just running errands in the Texas sun, wearing sunglasses helps shield your eyes from harmful UV rays that can cause serious, irreversible eye damage over time.
Sunglasses Protect More Than Just Your Eyes
The number one reason to wear sunglasses regularly is UV protection.
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun accelerates aging in every part of the eye – from the outer tissue to the internal structures – and has been directly linked to:
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Corneal sunburn (photokeratitis)
- Eyelid damage and skin cancer around the eyes
Most people know about the skin cancer risks of sun exposure, but many forget that your eyelids have the thinnest skin on your body – making them more vulnerable to sun-related changes. Long-term UV exposure can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and permanent under-eye darkening.
What’s more, UV light slows down the cornea’s natural healing process. That’s especially important for people who wear contact lenses frequently, or who’ve recently had LASIK or another form of refractive surgery.
Wearing sunglasses isn’t just a smart choice – it’s a recovery tool for your eyes.
Celebrate National Sunglasses Day with Style and Purpose
Whether you’re planning a casual afternoon in the park or a full-blown summer get-together, National Sunglasses Day is the perfect opportunity to combine eye health awareness with your personal style. If you already have a favorite pair, wear them proudly. If not, now’s the time to invest in a pair of high-quality lenses that offer full UV protection.
Looking for ways to celebrate? Here are a few ideas:
- Gift a stylish, protective pair of sunglasses to a friend or family member.
- Take a selfie in your shades and share it with a reminder to protect your eyes.
- Plan an outdoor activity with your kids and make sure everyone is wearing their sunglasses – it’s a great way to build healthy habits early.
Remember, sunglasses are more than just an accessory. When chosen well, they can be one of the simplest ways to prevent long-term eye damage.
Get UV Protection Advice from the Fort Worth Eye Experts at Altig Optical
At our eye practice, we believe that protecting your vision starts with education and ends with daily action. Our optical team can help you choose sunglasses that look great and block 100% of UVA and UVB rays – whether you need prescription lenses, sport-specific frames, or protective options for your kids.
Not sure what level of protection your current pair offers? Stop by or give us a call. We’ll help you evaluate your eyewear and recommend upgrades that protect your eyes without sacrificing comfort or style.
Call Altig Optical in Fort Worth at (817) 391-7956 to book an eye exam or visit us to browse our selection of UV-blocking sunglasses.
FAQ
Do kids really need sunglasses?
- Yes. A child’s eyes let in more UV light than an adult’s, making them more susceptible to long-term damage. Start them early with properly fitted, UV-blocking sunglasses whenever they’re outdoors.
Can sunglasses block blue light from screens?
- Some sunglasses with amber or yellow-tinted lenses can filter out certain wavelengths of blue light – but they’re designed primarily for outdoor light, not screen use. For indoor digital use, blue light glasses or computer glasses are a better option.
Do all sunglasses offer UV protection?
- Not necessarily. Some fashion sunglasses may lack proper UV filters, even if they have dark lenses. Always look for a label that says "100% UVA and UVB protection" or "UV400" to ensure your eyes are getting the protection they need.
Can I wear sunglasses even when it’s cloudy?
- Yes. UV rays penetrate clouds, so your eyes are still exposed even on overcast days. Wearing sunglasses year-round helps protect your eyes from cumulative UV damage – not just when the sun is shining brightly.