Most people understand the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, but what about their eyes? Like your skin, your eyes are vulnerable to long-term damage from ultraviolet (UV) rays—even on cloudy days or during winter months. UV protection for your eyes is not just a matter of comfort; it’s essential for preserving healthy vision.
At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates patients receive more than just stylish eyewear. With advanced diagnostic tools and a team of highly skilled optometrists, the clinic provides tailored guidance to ensure your sunglasses offer genuine, effective protection from UV radiation.
What Are UV Rays and How Do They Affect the Eyes?
Ultraviolet radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun. The three types—UVA, UVB, and UVC—vary in their wavelengths and effects. While UVC rays are largely absorbed by the atmosphere, UVA and UVB rays reach the Earth’s surface and can be especially damaging to the eyes over time.
Prolonged exposure to these rays is linked to several serious eye conditions, including:
Cataracts
UV rays can accelerate the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to cataracts. Without treatment, cataracts can impair vision and eventually lead to blindness.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Chronic UV exposure may increase the risk of macular degeneration—a disease that affects the central part of the retina and diminishes the ability to see fine details.
Photokeratitis
Often described as a sunburn of the eye, photokeratitis causes pain, redness, tearing, and blurred vision. This condition can occur after just a few hours of intense exposure without protection.
Pterygium
This growth on the white of the eye, often referred to as “surfer’s eye,” can extend to the cornea and distort vision. It’s commonly caused by a combination of UV light, wind, and dust.
You can find more details about UV radiation and eye safety on the Government of Canada’s sun safety page.
Why Your Sunglasses Might Not Be Enough
Dark-tinted sunglasses may reduce brightness, but they don’t necessarily block UV rays. For true protection, look for lenses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, often labelled as “UV400.” This ensures that all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometres are filtered out.
At Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates clinics—such as Mill Woods Eye Care, Southgate Eye Care, and Westmount Vision Care—optometrists use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to assess your eye health and recommend high-quality UV-blocking lenses that meet your specific needs. These clinics offer comprehensive eye exams with retinal imaging, corneal topography, and testing for light sensitivity and colour range to ensure your vision is thoroughly evaluated.
Why Children Need UV Protection, Too
Children are particularly susceptible to UV damage. Their pupils are larger and their lenses clearer, allowing more radiation to reach the retina. Unfortunately, most children don’t wear sunglasses regularly, leaving their eyes exposed during critical developmental years.
Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates provides specialized eye care for children, including customized eyewear that fits properly and provides full UV protection. By helping children adopt healthy vision habits early, parents can protect their sight well into adulthood.
When and Where UV Exposure Is Highest
Many assume that UV protection is only necessary during summer or on sunny days. But UV rays can penetrate cloud cover and reflect off surfaces like water, snow, and sand. In fact, snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, making winter sun exposure particularly harsh.
Whether you’re skiing in the Rockies or walking around Edmonton in mid-January, sunglasses with proper UV protection are a must. Wraparound or oversized frames offer additional coverage by limiting peripheral light exposure.
Prescription Sunglasses and Polarized Lenses
If you wear corrective lenses, prescription sunglasses are a convenient way to combine vision correction with UV protection. Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates offers a wide range of prescription sunglasses, including options with polarized lenses. Polarization doesn’t block UV rays but reduces glare—especially useful when driving, boating, or spending time near reflective surfaces.
The team at Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates is experienced in customizing sunglasses to suit each patient’s lifestyle. Whether you’re dealing with dry eyes, diabetes-related complications, or just need everyday UV protection, their expertise ensures your vision is safeguarded from every angle.
How to Know If Your Current Sunglasses Are Protecting You
If you’re unsure about the effectiveness of your current eyewear, visit an Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates for an assessment. With specialized equipment, the clinic can determine whether your lenses offer the level of protection your eyes require.
Many off-the-shelf sunglasses—especially those sold by unverified vendors—lack proper UV filters. While they may look fashionable, they can actually do more harm than good by causing your pupils to dilate behind the dark lenses, allowing even more UV light to enter the eye.
Make UV Protection a Year-Round Habit
UV damage to the eyes is cumulative. Just like protecting your skin, shielding your eyes every day, all year round, can dramatically lower your risk of serious conditions later in life. Quality sunglasses are a smart investment in your future eye health.
Scheduling regular checkups is another vital part of preventive care. Dr. Sam Dhaliwal & Associates offer comprehensive eye exams designed to catch early signs of damage, monitor ongoing conditions, and adjust your prescription for maximum clarity and comfort.