Shine Smart: Summer Sun Safety & the Power of Sunglasses
Contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator
Summer is nearly here—bringing sunshine, blue skies, and all the outdoor fun we’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the ball field, or your own backyard, it’s important to soak up the season safely—especially when it comes to your eyes.
Most of us already know the basics of sun safety: wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and find shade during the hottest parts of the day. But there’s one simple tool that’s often overlooked—sunglasses. And they’re more than just a stylish accessory. 😎
🕶 Why Sunglasses Matter
Sunglasses play a big role in protecting your long-term vision. Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Without proper protection, UV exposure can contribute to:
Cataracts – clouding of the eye’s natural lens
Macular degeneration – a leading cause of vision loss
Photokeratitis – a painful condition similar to a sunburn on the eye’s surface
Eyelid skin cancer – yes, it’s real and often overlooked
The good news? The right pair of sunglasses can block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, helping protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
🔎 What to Look for in Sunglasses
Not all sunglasses offer the same level of protection. When shopping for a pair, here’s what to keep in mind:
✅ 100% UVA/UVB protection – This is the most important feature
✅ Polarized lenses – Great for cutting glare, especially near water or while driving
✅ Wrap-around frames – Help block rays from the sides
✅ Larger lenses – Offer more coverage for your eyes and surrounding skin
Tip: Don’t choose sunglasses based on lens color or darkness alone. Without UV protection, darker lenses can actually increase risk—they cause your pupils to dilate, letting in more harmful rays.
☀️ Sun Smarts Beyond Shades
Sunglasses are a strong start, but for full-body sun protection, try these tips too:
🧴 Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every two hours (or more often if you’re swimming or sweating)
🧢 Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, ears, and neck
🧃 Stay hydrated and try to avoid direct sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
👕 Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved clothing when possible
👶 Don’t Forget the Kids
Children’s eyes are even more sensitive to UV damage than adults’. Start young by teaching sun-safe habits: encourage play in the shade, outfit kids with properly fitting sunglasses, and pop on a hat before heading outside.
😎 Shine Bright—and Smart
A good pair of sunglasses is a small investment in your long-term eye health—and one of the easiest ways to keep your summer both fun and safe. So before you head out the door, grab your shades, check that UV rating, and encourage your friends and family to do the same.
Because a great summer starts with clear vision—and smart choices.
This article was developed with support from AI-assisted writing tools and reviewed by our team for accuracy and clarity.