Why Children Need Sunglasses to Protect Their Vision
Children are resilient in many ways, but their eyes are more vulnerable to damage from the sun. While everyone needs protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, children require it even more than adults. That is why investing in high-quality sunglasses for your child is essential for their long-term eye health.
Why is UV Light Harmful?
Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which has both benefits and risks. While moderate sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, excessive UV exposure can cause serious eye damage over time.
Short-term exposure to high levels of UV light can cause photokeratitis, also known as snow blindness—a painful condition that feels like a sunburn on the eye. Symptoms include redness, tearing, sensitivity to light, and a gritty feeling in the eyes.
Over years of exposure, UV light can lead to long-term damage, increasing the risk of:
- Cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens that can impair vision
- Macular degeneration, a condition that affects central vision and can lead to vision loss
- Eye growths, such as pterygium, which can cause discomfort and vision obstruction
Wearing UV-protective sunglasses is one of the best ways to reduce these risks.
Why Are Children More Sensitive to UV Light?
A child’s eyes are more susceptible to UV damage than an adult’s because their natural eye structures are still developing.
- Less UV protection from the lens – The lens inside the eye helps filter out some harmful rays, but in children, this protective capability is not fully developed.
- Larger pupils – Children’s eyes have wider pupils, allowing more UV rays to enter.
- Delicate skin around the eyes – The eyelids and surrounding skin are thinner and more sensitive than adult skin, making them more prone to sun damage.
Children spend more time outdoors than most adults, whether at the beach, building a snowman, or playing at the park. This makes consistent UV eye protection even more important.
How to Get Your Child to Wear Sunglasses
Convincing children to wear sunglasses can be a challenge, especially if they are not used to them. Here are a few tips to encourage healthy habits:
- Start early – Introduce sunglasses when your child is young so they become a normal part of their routine.
- Let them choose – If kids pick out sunglasses they like, they are more likely to wear them.
- Use a strap – A comfortable retainer strap helps keep the sunglasses in place and prevents loss or damage.
- Set an example – Children mimic their parents’ behavior. If you wear sunglasses regularly, they are more likely to follow suit.
How to Buy the Right Sunglasses for Your Child
Not all sunglasses provide the same level of protection. It is important to choose a high-quality pair that offers complete UV protection.
Here’s what to look for:
- 100 percent UVA and UVB protection – Ensure the lenses block all harmful UV rays.
- Polycarbonate lenses – These are lightweight, impact-resistant, and shatterproof, making them safe for active kids.
- A proper fit – The lenses should fully cover the eyes, reducing exposure from the sides.
- Prescription options – If your child wears glasses, consider prescription sunglasses for maximum protection.
A pediatric optometrist can help determine the best sunglasses for your child’s needs.
Pediatric Optometrists and Eyewear in Edmonton
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we provide pediatric eye exams to ensure your child’s vision is healthy and protected. We also offer a wide selection of prescription and non-prescription sunglasses designed for children.
Our experienced opticians can help fit your child with the right sunglasses for comfort and durability. Visit one of our five Edmonton-area locations to explore our selection, or contact us today to schedule an eye exam.
