Why You Should Never Skip Wearing Sunglasses

By Ankita Mishra Published On: Apr 04, 2025 12:44 PM IST Last Updated On: Apr 04, 2025 12:44 PM IST
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When we think of sunglasses, the first thing that comes to mind is style. A pair of trendy shades can instantly elevate any outfit, making you look effortlessly chic.However, sunglasses are far more than just a fashion accessory. They serve as a crucial shield for your eyes, protecting them from harmful UV rays that can lead to long-term damage. Additionally, they reduce eye strain, improve visibility in bright conditions, and even help prevent premature wrinkles caused by squinting. If you've only viewed sunglasses as a style statement, this article will change your perspective.

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health & Style

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health And Style; Photo Credit: Pexels

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Sunglasses for Your Face Shape: Style, Fit and More

1. Shields Your Eyes From Harmful UV Rays

According to a study published in Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology, UVB (and non-solar UVC) Solar rays can have acute clinical effects on the eyes and the skin, alongwith inflammation of the cornea (photokeratitis). 

So, excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to serious eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration. A good pair of sunglasses with 100% UV protection acts as a barrier between your eyes and the sun, keeping them safe from long-term damage. Sunglasses help to filter out both UVA and UVB rays, which are responsible for skin aging and cancer as well as eye-related diseases.

How to choose UV-protected sunglasses? Look for sunglasses labeled “UV400”, which block nearly 100% of UV rays. Opt for wraparound frames for maximum coverage. Avoid cheap knock-offs that do not provide proper UV filtration.

2. Reduces the Risk of Eye Diseases

The study Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology also suggests that the sun's ultraviolet radiation is a leading cause of photokeratitis (sunburned eyes) and can increase the chances of developing eye-related diseases over time. The cornea, retina, and lens of the eye are highly sensitive to UV damage. It further explains that  consistent UV exposure can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and even eye cancer.

What are the conditions caused by UV exposure? Cataracts - clouding of the lens, leading to vision impairment. Macular Degeneration, name of the damage to the central retina, causing blurred vision. Pinguecula And Pterygium, growths on the eye's surface due to prolonged sun exposure.

3. Prevents Premature Wrinkles And Fine Lines

Squinting in bright sunlight can lead to the formation of crow's feet and fine lines around the eyes. Over time, this repeated facial movement can contribute to premature aging. Sunglasses with larger frames or polarised lenses reduce squinting, helping to keep the delicate skin around your eyes youthful.

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health & Style

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health And Style; Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Enhances Vision And Reduces Glare

Whether you're driving, cycling, or simply walking on a sunny day, glare can be distracting and even dangerous. Polarised sunglasses minimise glare, providing a clearer, more comfortable vision. This is especially useful while driving, where sunlight reflecting off wet roads or other vehicles can impair vision.

While choosing the best sunglasses for glare reduction go for polarised lenses and filter out horizontal glare. You can also try the gradient lenses which are darker at the top, lighter at the bottom, great for driving. Mirrored Lenses are also good option as they reflect light away, reducing brightness.

5. Protects from Dust And Debris

Apart from the sun, sunglasses shield your eyes from wind, dust, and pollutants, reducing irritation and preventing potential infections. This is particularly useful while riding a bike, spending time outdoors, or working in windy environments. Hence, motorcyclists And cyclists, outdoor workers, beachgoers And hikers need this the most.

6. Improves Eye Comfort in Harsh Light

Stepping out on a bright day without sunglasses can make your eyes feel strained and fatigued. A good pair of shades helps in adjusting to bright light, making your outdoor experience much more comfortable. Without proper protection, prolonged exposure to bright light can lead to eye fatigue, headaches, and discomfort.

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health & Style

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health And Style; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Enhances Performance in Sports And Outdoor Activities

Athletes, runners, and bikers rely on sunglasses to improve focus and performance. Sports sunglasses are designed to enhance contrast, reduce glare, and provide better visibility in different environments. It enhances contrast and protects from wind while running And cycling . Also Improves vision on bright courses at the golf course. Reduces glare from water surfaces while swimming or performing water sports. It also helps preventing snow blindness during skiing and snowboarding.

8. Reduces the Risk of Headaches And Migraines

Bright light can be a major trigger for headaches and migraines. Wearing sunglasses with dark-tinted or polarised lenses helps minimise exposure to excessive brightness, reducing the likelihood of discomfort.

How to choose the right lens? While choosing the right lens first go for the grey lenses that maintain colour balance and are good for everyday use. Next you can test the brown/amber lenses that enhance contrast and are great for sports. Finally the yellow lenses, they are loved world wide to improve depth perception and are ideal for low-light conditions.

9. A Must-Have for Post-Surgery Eye Protection

If you've had LASIK or cataract surgery, your doctor will likely recommend wearing sunglasses to protect your sensitive eyes during the healing process. Post-surgery, your eyes are more vulnerable to light and UV damage, making sunglasses a vital part of recovery. They give you wraparound styles for full coverage with 100% UV protection lenses and Light-filtering tinted lenses.

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health & Style

10 Reasons Why Sunglasses Are Essential For Eye Health And Style; Photo Credit: Pexels

10. Elevates Your Style Instantly

Of course, sunglasses are a fashion essential! Whether you prefer classic aviators, oversized frames, or sporty wraparounds, the right pair of shades adds personality and confidence to your look.

From trending sunglasses styles in 2025 to aviators, all these sunglasses are timeless and versatile. When oversized frames give a bold statement and extra UV protection the wayfarers give a classic and casual look. But Round Lenses are the OG that give that retro-inspired and stylish personality that you will love for sure.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Your Face Shape

Not all sunglasses suit every face shape. Here's a quick guide to finding the perfect fit:

Round Face? Go for angular frames like square or rectangular.

Square Face? Try round or oval frames to soften angles.

Oval Face? Lucky you! Almost any frame shape works.

Heart-Shaped Face? Cat-eye or aviators complement this face shape well.

Products Related To This Article

1. Voyage Unisex Black Lens Oval Sunglasses With UV Protected Lens

2. Voyage Lens Wayfarer Sunglasses With Polarised And UV Protected Lens

3. WROGN Unisex Square Sunglasses With UV Protected Lens 5227 Gold Blue Pink

4. Carlton London Premium Men Polarised And UV Protected Lens Oval Sunglasses 

5. Voyage Unisex Black Lens And Silver-Toned Oval Sunglasses With UV Protected Lens

6. ROYALTAIL Unisex Oval Sunglasses With UV Protected Lens

7. Vincent Chase by Lenskart Men Aviator Sunglasses With Polarised And UV Protected Lens

8. Voyage Women Cateye UV Protected Sunglasses

9. Voyage Women Oval Sunglasses

10. Roadster The Lifestyle Co Moto X2 UV Protected Rectangle Sunglasses

Sunglasses are an investment in both style and eye health. They protect, enhance vision, and offer long-term benefits beyond aesthetics. Whether you're heading to the beach, going for a drive, or simply stepping out, don't forget to grab your sunglasses for the ultimate blend of fashion and function.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

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