Are Sunglasses Actually Necessary? We Asked an Expert

Sunglasses are more than just a fashionable accessory — they are essential for protecting your eyes and keeping them healthy.

While many people view sunglasses as merely an unessential, optional part of an outfit, others incorrectly believe that sunglasses are actually harmful to our eyes — misinformation that has been spreading on social media in recent years.

But according to Jovi Boparai, M.D., an ophthalmic surgeon and co-founder of CorneaCare, neither of these statements is true. Instead, he says sunglasses are actually an important preventative health tool that protects our eyes.

“Sunglasses block harmful UV rays, which increase the risk for various ocular conditions,” Boparai, who suffers from dry eye disease himself and has cared for thousands of patients with a variety of eye problems, tells Healthnews.

This includes cataracts, glaucoma, pinguecula, pterygium, and macular degeneration.

And sunglasses don’t just protect the eyes from the sun, Boparai explains — they also offer protection to the skin around the eyes, including the eyelids, brow, and upper cheeks, potentially reducing the risk of developing skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma.

Sunglasses also minimize glare, he says, and alleviate the eye strain associated with it.

“Sunglasses should be worn year-round, even when it is not ‘sunny’ outside,” Boparai says. “UV rays can be damaging, even on cloudy days.”

If you’re wondering how to choose the right pair of sunglasses, Boparai recommends looking for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, specifically against UVA and UVB. He also suggests opting for polarized lenses that will minimize glare.

For comfort, look for a sturdy frame that isn’t too heavy and sits comfortably on your nasal bridge and around the ears, he says. And if you wear prescription glasses, get prescription sunglasses to promote clarity and comfort.

Those with sensitive eyes might want to look for wrap-around sunglasses that offer protection from the front and the sides of the eyes, he adds.

“Nearly 90% of people rank vision as their most important sense, and approximately 80% of your perception of the world depends on your vision. In fact, when your eyes are open, over two thirds of your brain is involved in visual processing,” Boparai says. “Therefore, it is paramount to protect your eyes so you can enjoy your vision for years to come. Happy eyes, happy lives!”