Are Sunglasses Bad For Your Skin?

When it comes to protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun, we often think about applying sunscreen or wearing a wide-brimmed hat. But what about sunglasses? Are they bad for our skin? Let's dive into the science and find out.

Do sunglasses protect your skin from the sun?

Yes, sunglasses do protect your skin from the sun, but not in the same way that sunscreen or a hat does. Sunglasses primarily protect the delicate skin around your eyes and the eyes themselves from harmful UV rays.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the skin around our eyes is more prone to skin cancer because it is thinner and more sensitive. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help shield this area from the sun's harmful rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

Can sunglasses cause skin damage?

While sunglasses can protect your skin, it's important to choose the right pair. Some sunglasses may actually cause skin damage if they don't provide adequate UV protection.

When you wear sunglasses, your eyes are shaded, causing your pupils to dilate. If the sunglasses don't have proper UV protection, more harmful UV rays can enter your eyes and the surrounding skin, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Additionally, sunglasses that don't fit properly can rub against the skin, causing irritation and potentially leading to skin damage. It's important to choose sunglasses that fit well and provide full coverage for your eyes and the surrounding skin.

How to choose sunglasses that protect your skin

When shopping for sunglasses, keep the following tips in mind to ensure you choose a pair that protects your skin:

1. Look for sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection. This means they block both UVA and UVB rays.
2. Opt for larger frames or wraparound styles that provide more coverage for your eyes and the surrounding skin.
3. Choose sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare and improve visibility.
4. Make sure the sunglasses fit well and don't rub against your skin.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of sunglasses while protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

The bottom line

Sunglasses are not bad for your skin. In fact, they can help protect the delicate skin around your eyes and reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. However, it's important to choose sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection and fit well to avoid any potential skin damage.

So, the next time you step out into the sun, don't forget to grab your sunglasses and shield your eyes and skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.