Kids Sunglasses and SPF: The Crucial Combo

While a little sun is harmless, anything over 15 minutes puts adults and children alike at risk for a whole host of future problems. Most parents know that SPF is a prerequisite for their little ones, but what they don’t realize is that kids sunglasses are just as essential.

Young eyes are even more sensitive to light and UV rays, so children’s sunglasses are even more important than adult sunglasses. Kids sunglasses have been viewed as extraneous, but they are irrelevant no more.

What’s the big problem with UV rays? When UVA and UVB rays penetrate the lens and retina of the eyes, permanent damage can result. Young eyes are less able to filter out these rays; the lens of the eye can literally get sunburned. Because kids spend so much time outdoors, the problem is only compounded. What can happen down the road? Macular degeneration and cataracts are but two of the possibilities.

Parents simply have to get used to a new routine that includes SPF and children’s sunglasses every time the kids head outdoors. For the most protection, UV 400 lenses work to block 100 percent of all UV rays. By protecting young eyes, kids will grow up to have better eye health and fewer problems than their parents and grandparents.

Why aren’t parents better educated about the importance of kids sunglasses? While the FDA requires all lenses to be impact-resistant, the FDA does not currently enforce UV protection. The FDA merely establishes voluntary guidelines and suggestions. Eye care professionals rigorously encourage UV 400 protection for everyone, but their message has yet to be heard.

Kids sunglasses have traditionally been worn only for comfort, not protection – they keep little ones from complaining about the glare. But what if parents required kids to wear shades even on overcast days? Young eyes would be more shielded against eye injury and eye damage. Because specs help protect the eyes from debris, they truly do double-duty.

Adults and children alike should technically be wearing sunglasses year-round outside. While grey days may lull you into a false sense of security, UV rays never actually take a break. They easily power through the darkest clouds. Whenever you go outside – even if for just a half-hour – you and your kids should be donning shades. It’s just not worth taking a risk. There are plenty of comfortable, economical options on the market, so there is no justification for avoiding them.