When thinking of sunglasses, most people see them as a style statement or summer must-have. However, sunglasses go beyond fashion—they are a year-round essential for eye protection.

Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays don’t take a break, even on cloudy days or in winter. Wearing sunglasses regularly helps protect your eyes from long-term damage like cataracts, macular degeneration, and even sunburned eyes (photokeratitis).

1. Why should you wear sunglasses all year?
2. Which kind of sunglasses should you choose?

1. Why should you wear sunglasses all year?

• Protect your eyes from harmful untraviolet(UV) rays all-year: The sun doesn’t need to be shining brightly for UV rays to cause harm. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. Also, snow and ice aren’t just cold — they’re highly reflective. Snow can reflect more UV radiation than water, increasing your risk of UV damage. 
• Protect your eyes from dry eyes: The sunglasses can work as a cover-up to shield your eyes from debris, allergens and irritants.
• Protect your eyes from debris, allergens and irritants: Wind, cold air, and indoor heating systems can all contribute to dry, irritated eyes in fall and winter. Wearing wraparound or close-fitting sunglasses helps shield your eyes from wind and moisture loss.

2. Which kind of sunglasses should you choose?

Choosing the right kind of sunglasses depends on your needs and preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the best pair:

Lens Types:

• Polarized lenses: Reduce glare (great for driving, water, snow). Not ideal for screens or pilots.
• Photochromic lenses: Adjust to light (darken in sunlight). Good for all-day use, but slower to change inside cars.
• Standard/popular tint lenses: 100% tint color: including most selected color gray, brown and more, suitable for most occassions.
• Gradient tint lenses: Dark at the top, lighter at the bottom. Stylish and good for driving.
• Mirrored tint lenses: Reflect more light. Trendy and good for bright conditions.

Lifestyle:

• Active/outdoor: Wraparound or sports sunglasses for better coverage.
• Driving: Polarized lenses, anti-reflective coating.
• Fashion: Designer brands, bold shapes/colors.
• Prescription needs? Get sunglasses with your prescription or clip-ons.

Keep a pair of sunglasses in your bag, your car, and by the door. Because sunshine — and eye damage — doesn’t wait for summer.