Choosing sunglasses: An expert's checklist

Whether you're ready to hit the beach or the ski slopes, protecting your eyes from the sun should be at the top of your to-do list.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the skin of your eyelid as well as the cornea, lens and other parts of the eye. This can increase your risk of cataract progression, growths on the eye or eyelid, and an eye condition called macular degeneration.

The color and darkness of a pair of sunglasses have nothing to do with its ability to block UV rays. To protect your eyes, look for sunglasses that:

  • Block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Screen out at least 75% of visible light.
  • Aren't scratched, bent or distorted.
  • Have gray lenses to help you see colors correctly.
  • Have wide or wraparound lenses that protect your eyes from every angle.

Some contact lenses also offer UV protection. But these should still be worn with sunglasses to offer your eyes the best protection.

  1. Wang SQ, et al. Photoprotection: A review of the current and future technologies. Dermatologic Therapy. 2010;23:31.
  2. Tuchinda C, et al. Photoprotection by window glass, automobile glass, and sunglasses. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2006;54:845.
  3. Tips for choosing the best sunglasses. American Academy of Ophthalmology. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/sunglasses-3. Accessed Apr. 1, 2025.
  4. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and sun exposure. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/ultraviolet-uv-radiation-and-sun-exposure. Accessed March 29, 2023.
  5. UV protection. American Optometric Association. http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/uv-protection. Accessed March 29, 2023.
  6. Walsh JE, et al. Does the eye benefit from wearing ultraviolet-blocking contact lenses? Eye & Contact Lens. 2011;37:267.
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