Sunglasses are one of the most popular eyewear accessories, and most of us have no problem remembering to wear our sunglasses during the spring and summer months. But what about wearing your sunnies during the winter months? Although there is less sun in the colder months of winter, your eyes can still be exposed to harmful situations. Here are some important reasons to continue wearing sunglasses in the winter:
 

1. UV Protection

While there may not be as much sun coming through the clouds when you’re outside in the winter, UVA and UVB rays are still present, and can do more damage to your vision if you choose to forego the extra protection that sunglasses can offer.
 

2. Prevent Irritation From Wind And Dust

Especially in our part of the country, we all know the sensation that happens the moment you step outside and the cold air hits your eyes, causing tears to form.  This is a natural reaction as your eyes try to protect themselves from the cold. Wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes from the cold, dry, and sometimes dust-filled air.
 

3. Reducing Eye Strain and Other Conditions

Our eyes, specifically the pupils, react to lighting levels. The retina is sensitive to light, and the reflection of bright sunshine off the snow can affect pupil constriction. By reducing the light exposure that sunglasses provide, You will squint less and your pupils won’t have to strain to adjust to the changing levels of light. Photochromatic sunglasses can greatly reduce the amount of light reaching the eyes.
 

4. Protection against Snow Blindness/Photokeratitis

Fresh, white, powdery snow is beautiful…and bright! The glistening white snow can act like a gigantic mirror for the sun, reflecting light back to your eyes. This can cause a condition known as photokeratitis, also known as “snow blindness”. This is a serious condition that causes a “sunburn” to your eyes, causing multiple symptoms, including pain, redness, blurriness, and sensitivity. Wearing polarized lenses while doing outdoor activities in the winter can greatly reduce the effects of the reflection of snow.
 

All of these reasons demonstrate why it is important to make eye safety and health a priority this winter. Wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes year-round, as eye damage can occur at any time of the year. Choose good quality sunglasses that offer 100 percent UVA/UVB protection. The sunglasses will block glare, prevent eyestrain, and protect your eyes from debris. Stop by our optical for assistance in selecting the best sunglasses for all of your winter activities!