Many wear branded sunglasses to make a fashion statement. Some wear them simply to protect their eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet A and B rays. However, a few choose not to wear sunglasses due to various myths. For instance, they believe that only expensive sunglasses offer sun protection and so do not bother to invest in them. Below, we have tried to debunk a few such myths about sunglasses that could damage your vision:

One should wear sunglasses only on sunny days
This statement holds no truth. Various experiments and studies have revealed that the sun can affect our eyes even when hidden behind clouds, mainly because the atmosphere keeps the UV rays active. In such situations, the effect of the rays can be more harmful. The sun’s UV rays can easily pass through fog and clouds, increasing the risk of eye issues, such as cataracts, in any season. During winter, the sun’s rays can reflect off frost and snow and cause photokeratitis or snow blindness, a severe eye condition.

If your eyes are overexposed to UV rays, they can become dry, red, and tender or even get seriously damaged. Hence, it is advisable to protect the eyes with sunglasses or prescription lenses that offer UV protection. You can find such sunglasses easily on the market from different brands. Use them irrespective of whether the sun is shining brightly on a given day or hidden behind clouds.

The sunglasses’ size does not matter
Many people believe that the size of their sunglasses does not matter and that they can choose any size they wish. It is a dangerous myth because the right size is necessary to block the sun’s rays. Experts recommend choosing bigger sunglasses because the bigger the sunglasses, the more protection they will offer by covering a larger area around the eye. This reduces sun damage caused to the eyes and lowers the chances of UV light entering from the side. It also prevents you from peeking above or below the glasses.

Children do not require sunglasses
Protecting the eyes is essential for all ages, so even children need to wear sunglasses. Both young and old are equally vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays. When UV radiation enters the delicate eyes of a child, it can cause damage, irritation, and other complications that can be hard to manage. In fact, since kids spend a lot of time outdoors playing or enjoying various other activities, they are at a higher risk of developing vision issues due to the sun than adults. Vision issues can arise at any age, and children need the most protection.

Inexpensive sunglasses do not protect from UV rays
This is one of the most common myths that could damage your vision. Sunglasses do not have to be expensive to offer adequate protection to the eyes. A cheap pair of sunglasses marked as 100% UV protection can be equally effective as a branded or expensive pair. You just need to read the labels to ensure they offer complete UV protection. Also, since many tend to misplace their sunglasses, it might be a good idea to choose an inexpensive option!

Using sunglasses will result in vision issues as you age
People often develop eyesight issues with age, but that has nothing to do with sunglasses. For example, cataract is a problem that older people are prone to, irrespective of whether they used sunglasses earlier in life. In fact, some vision issues might arise in old age because you have not protected your eyes with sunglasses. To reduce the risk of eye disorders in old age, follow a balanced and nutritious meal plan rich in vitamin A. Controlling sugar intake and managing cholesterol can also help avoid eye ailments that arise due to health conditions that develop as you age.

Darker lenses offer more protection from UV rays
It is a total misconception that the darker the lens, the more protected your eyes will be from the sun’s UV rays. Darker glasses are not an indication that they will offer more protection. Sunglasses provide safety and protection from UV rays irrespective of how dark they are.

Sunglasses cannot help prevent genetic eye problems
A person is more likely to develop certain genetic eye diseases if someone in the family already has them. However, it is not definite that you will get the problem. So, this statement is a myth. Although some eye conditions such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are inherited, if you go for frequent eye check-ups, they can be prevented or detected and treated early. Most eye issues are related to age and develop naturally due to the aging process. Still, they can be prevented or delayed by taking steps like wearing sunglasses and following a healthy meal plan.

There are many excellent sunglasses brands in the market, and you will most likely come across Oakley when shortlisting your options. They have various sunglasses that can protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays. The best advantage is that Oakley sunglasses are inexpensive and offer protection all year round. The brand also has useful lenses that can be used for sports.