Do your sunglasses really protect the eyes from the sun?

• 10 Oct 2025

Do your sunglasses really protect the eyes from the sun?

Do your sunglasses really protect the eyes from the sun?

How do you select the correct sunglasses?

😊 Fun fact: Darkness of the glasses has nothing to do with UV protection

We all know that the UVA and UVB rays from the sun are harmful for our eyes.
Eye damage caused: cataracts, macular degeneration, sunburns, corneal damage

How to choose the best sunglasses?
When browsing the shelves, look for the CE mark or British standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013 as it guarantees a safe level of UV protection. UV 400 mark is the higher level of protection.

Do I need sunglasses on a cloudy day?
UV rays are not necessarily blocked by the sun, so your eyes are still at risk.

What about snow?
Snow reflects upto 80% of UV light into our eyes

Is polarised glasses the same as UV protection?
No, it is very different. Polarised glasses reduce glare but they do not necessarily block UV rays

See the images below for examples of CE mark

When it comes to protecting your eyes from the sun, choosing the right sunglasses is crucial. Contrary to popular belief, the darkness of the lenses does not determine their UV protection level. The real key lies in selecting sunglasses with proper UV defense to shield your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Exposure to these rays can lead to various eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, sunburns, and corneal damage. So, how do you pick the best sunglasses? Look for the CE mark or the British standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013 when shopping for sunglasses. These markings ensure a safe level of UV protection, with the UV 400 mark signifying the highest level of defense.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds, posing a risk to your eyes. Similarly, in snowy conditions, up to 80% of UV light can be reflected into your eyes, emphasizing the need for protective eyewear.

While polarised glasses help reduce glare, they are not synonymous with UV protection. It’s essential to opt for sunglasses specifically designed to block UV rays to safeguard your eyes effectively.

Remember, when it comes to eye protection, prioritize UV defense by choosing sunglasses with the right certifications and markings. Stay safe and keep your eyes shielded from the sun’s harmful rays