June 27 is National Sunglasses Day, so grab your favorite pair of sunnies and celebrate! Many people think sunglasses are little more than a fashion accessory or a way to minimize glare while driving. But the truth is that wearing sunglasses is vital if you want to safeguard your eye health and vision.

Why Sunglasses Are Important

The number one reason to wear sunglasses is that they prevent ultraviolet (UV) light from entering your eyes. UV light has been shown to age every part of the eye, from the delicate outer eye tissue to the tiny structures within the eye itself. Chronic UV exposure raises your risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and corneal damage.

The skin on your eyelids is the thinnest skin of your body, and UV light exposure can further thin eyelid skin, leading to premature aging and the appearance of dark circles and under-eye bags. Additionally, UV light has been shown to slow the cornea's ability to heal itself, making sunglasses a medical necessity for people who've recently had eye surgery like LASIK or who frequently wear contacts.

Activities for National Sunglasses Day

Not sure how to celebrate? Here are a few ideas:

• Sport your favorite pair of sunglasses during an outdoor activity, whether it's a barbecue with friends, a concert, or time spent in the park.
• Celebrate National Sunglasses Day by gifting a pair of quality sunglasses to a friend, spouse, or child!

No matter how you choose to celebrate, we hope you enjoy and keep your eyes protected.

FAQ With Our Optometrist

Should kids wear sunglasses?

Yes, children of all ages should wear sunglasses whenever they're outdoors. A child's crystalline lens within the eye is much more clear than an adult's, letting more light through. Contact us to learn more about kids' eye health or to schedule an eye exam.

Can sunglasses block blue light?

Sunglasses with lenses that have a yellowish tint offer the most amount of blue light protection from the sun and other sources. If you're interested in blocking blue light from digital devices, speak with us to determine if computer glasses are right for you.

For all matters related to eye health, Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio is here for you. Contact our eye doctor today at (937) 228-2020!