Although sunlight is pleasant, unfortunately UV radiation accelerates skin aging. While many people may know that overexposure to UV radiation can accelerate skin aging, they may not know that it also increases the risk of certain eye conditions.

Hazards of UV light

Pinguecula is a pink, fleshy, triangular tissue that grows on the cornea and can seriously affect vision. It has been found that pinguecula is more common among people who spend a long time outdoors, such as surfers, skiers, fishermen, and farmers.

In addition, overexposure to UV radiation can also increase the risk of cataracts and eye cancer. Although the occurrence of these diseases is a long process, once they occur, they can seriously endanger eye health.

Many of us wear sunglasses to reduce glare from the sun, but as an ophthalmologist, I want to let everyone know that wearing sunglasses in the sun not only reduces glare but also reduces the damage caused by UV radiation to the eyes.

Many adults have the habit of wearing sunglasses, but do children need to wear sunglasses? Some mothers may have read from well-known pediatricians not to use children’s sunglasses because even imported products are not safe. Is this true?

In fact, whenever I see fashionable mothers wearing sunglasses while their babies are exposed to the sun with unprotected eyes, I feel very sad.

The American Optometric Association (AOA) has said that sunglasses are a necessity for people of all ages because children’s eyes are more transparent than adults’, making it easier for UV radiation to reach the retina. Therefore, sunglasses are particularly important for children.

So children should not avoid wearing sunglasses, but should actually wear them more than adults.

My own baby was born not long ago, and I have been very careful to protect her eye health. When I take my child out, both the adults and the child wear sunglasses. Besides protecting her eyes, we also receive compliments like “So cute!” and “So cool!” It is both healthy and happy, so why not do it?

How to choose sunglasses for children

So, how should we choose sunglasses for children? We can pay attention to the following points:

UV protection

Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to maximize UV protection. When purchasing children’s sunglasses, choose products from reputable manufacturers and make sure the UV protection percentage on the label is 100%.

Lens color

The ability of sunglasses to protect against UV radiation is not related to lens color. As long as the lenses can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays, you can choose a lens color based on your child’s preference. However, some studies have shown that long-term exposure to high-energy visible light, also known as “blue light,” can also damage the eyes. Therefore, when choosing lens colors, you can consider selecting amber or brass lenses to block blue light.

Lens size

Large lenses not only protect the eyes, but also provide protection for the skin around the eyelids and eyes. Choose sunglasses with lenses that are large enough to cover the eyes and the surrounding skin.

Lens Material and Frame

Due to the active nature of children, their sunglasses should meet the standards of sports and choose safer resin lenses instead of glass lenses. The frame should be flexible and easily bendable to ensure that the glasses fit snugly against the face.

About the Elastic Band

Since little babies need some time to adapt to wearing sunglasses, elastic bands help to keep the sunglasses snug on their faces and prevent them from constantly taking them off out of curiosity. If possible, choose frames that can be replaced between the legs and the elastic band, so that when the babies grow up and no longer pull down their sunglasses, they can be replaced with legs.

Children with Refractive Problems

Children who wear nearsighted or farsighted glasses can choose to wear photochromic lenses. These lenses look no different from ordinary glasses indoors, but automatically darken in the sun, providing protection for children’s eyes.

In terms of style, for older children, it is best to let them choose the styles they like, as what parents like may not be what their children like. Respecting their choices will make them more willing to wear sunglasses.

At the same time, we need to be aware that the damage of the sun to the eyes does not only occur on sunny days in spring and summer. It can also happen in autumn and winter or on cloudy days, as the sun can penetrate through haze and thin clouds. So, whenever you engage in outdoor activities, remember to wear sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat.

Finally

we should know that actions speak louder than words. When parents go out wearing sunglasses themselves, they not only protect themselves but also set a good example for their children, guiding them to develop the good habit of wearing sunglasses to protect their eyes. So, when parents go out with their children wearing matching outfits, they can wear beautiful sunglasses together.