Five Reasons Your Child Needs Sunglasses

As we transition into fall many of us will lower our guard when it comes to UV protection. However, it’s important for everyone to continue to protect their eyes from the harmful effects of UV light year-round. In fact, we recommend children begin to wear sunglasses at 6 months old. Here are 5 reasons why your child needs sunglasses.

1. Increased Sensitivity

Did you know that children are more sensitive to UV light? Our pupil is the window into the eye and our lens is the curtain behind that window. Children have larger windows and sheer curtains, which allow more UV light to enter their eyes. Wearing sunglasses will reduce your child’s sensitivity to UV light.

2. Increased Outdoor Time

Did you know that half of our lifetime exposure to UV light occurs before 20 years of age? Children spend more time outdoors than adults. Particularly between 10:00am to 2:00pm, which is when the UV light is the most harmful. Wearing sunglasses during these hours will reduce your child’s exposure to UV light.

3. Cumulative Effect

Did you know how sunburned skin appears a few hours after UV exposure, sunburned eyes can appear years after UV exposure? UV damage to your child’s eyes is often cumulative and permanent. Cataracts is just one of the many eye conditions that can present when your child reaches adulthood.

4. Increased Exposure In Winter

Did you know your risk for UV damage increases in the winter? The snow, like water, is a very reflective surface and the UV light that hits the snow bounces back into your eyes. This can double your child’s UV exposure! Wearing polarized sunglasses will block this reflection.

5. Increased Comfort and Safety

Did you notice your child squints when they step outdoors? On bright days, your child may squint to reduce the amount of light entering their eyes. This can cause eye strain and headaches. On windy days, your child may squint their eyes to block out flying debris and allergens. Wearing sunglasses can increase your child’s eye comfort and safety.