Should My Kids Wear Sunglasses?

Think only adults need sunglasses for protection from the sun? Think again. During the summer, protecting your kids from harmful rays from the sun can seem like an uphill battle. We know that sunscreen is a great defense in blocking harmful UV rays for our skin, and seeking shade are great options too, but parents often overlook the importance of protecting your kids’ eyes on this summer. Too much sun exposure can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other serious eye problems later in life. Children tend to spend more time outdoors, especially in the summer. So prepare them with kids’ sunglasses and protect their eyes so they can have all the fun in the sun this year.

Invest in High Quality Kids’ Sunglasses

The best way to protect your kids’ eyes from the sun is by equipping them with high quality sunglasses. Look for these features to make sure you’re making the right decision when purchasing youth sunglasses.

UVA & UVB Protection

• Find sunglasses that protect as close to 100% of UVA and UVB rays as possible. Children’s eyes are way more sensitive to UV damage, so don’t overlook this critical detail. If the glasses are just tinted, they could cause pupils to dilate, letting in more light. Causing more harm than good.

HEV Protection

• HEV light, also known as blue light primarily comes from the sun can penetrate deep into the eye. It can also come from electronic devices, such as computer screens or cell phones. Tip: Look for brown or amber tinted glasses for the best protection from HEV light.

Impact Resistant

• Kids’ sunglasses should be tough enough to withstand everyday play. Look for impact resistant lenses to reduce damage. Polycarbonate lenses tougher than traditional plastic lenses are a good choice to hold up against wear and tear for kids who are active.

Go for a Medium Tint

• Darker doesn’t always mean better. Firstly, UV protection should be considered first before deciding on tint. Lenses that are super dark could cause pupils to dilate too much, letting more harmful light in. Lenses that are too light tend to not offer much comfort in super sunny days.

Luckily, adult and youth sunglasses at Dr. Tavel come with the UV protection built in, so all you have to worry about is finding the right pair for you! Don’t let the sun hold up the fun, have your kids enjoy the most of the outdoors while protecting their vision for the long run.