Do I Still Need to Wear Sunglasses in the Winter?

Sunglasses are just as important in winter as they are in summer. Although winter is a cold season, the sun is still present, and its rays can harm your eyes. Apart from protecting you from the harmful rays of the sun, sunglasses will protect you from other elements. So, why do you need to wear sunglasses in winter?

Protection From Harmful UV Rays

Although the sun is not as intense or as hot as in summer, you have more exposure. The reason for this exposure is that in winter, the sun sits lower in the sky. It thus poses more risk and damage to your eyes from UV rays.

In colder months, there is even a risk of double exposure to UV rays. So if you are going to spend long hours outdoors, make sure you protect your eyes. Wear your sunglasses.

Protection From Age-Related Diseases

There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. The first two pose a significant threat to your health, while the earth’s ozone layer absorbs the third. Research shows that UV rays contribute to different age-related conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.

So when you step out, make sure to carry your sunglasses. It will help protect your eyes from these conditions. It will also make sure that your lenses are clear and healthy for a long time.

Protection From Snow Blindness

Snow is reflective, so when the sun is shining, it leads to reflection. So whether the sun is fully visible or not, being outside increases your chances of exposure. The chances also increase the higher you go since UV rays are more in higher altitudes.

Because of this increase in UV rays at these higher altitudes, your risk of experiencing snow blindness increases. Snow blindness or photokeratitis is a condition where your eyes experience sunburn. It is painful and causes headaches, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light. It can also cause redness and swelling of your eyes. However, it heals after a couple of days.

Protection From the Elements

Sunglasses also protect your eyes from other elements. This is especially so if you suffer from dry eyes. Sunglasses will create a barrier from the wind. They also reduce the exposure that causes evaporation of moisture from your eyes.

There is also protection from dust and debris that may irritate your eyes. If you are outdoors on a windy day, wear sunglasses that wrap around your head to adequately protect your eyes.

Protection From Glare

Glare can obstruct you when you are driving, especially during sunrise and sunset. It is worse in winter because the sun is lower on the horizon. It, therefore, reflects at a lower and brighter angle. While the wintery scenery is beautiful, the reflection of the snow and ice can impair your ability to see. The impairment of your vision by glare can result in accidents. Wear sunglasses not just to protect yourself but also those around you.

Sunglasses are also more comfortable. If you wear prescription eyeglasses, you can get photochromatic lenses that darken on exposure to sunlight or reflection. Alternatively, you can get prescription sunglasses.

For more on protecting your eyes during winter, visit Lifetime Vision and Eye Care at our office in Miami Gardens, Florida. You can also call (305) 902-3320 today to schedule an appointment.