Over the last 19 years since we first launched Evolution, we have come across a lot of misconceptions and false information about sunglasses. So we’ve decided to clear up the top 5 sunglass myths.
Myth 1: All sunglasses provide UV protection
False!
While many sunglasses may look the part, not all of them protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. In fact, cheap sunglasses – like the ones you might pick up at a beach market or tourist stall – may have no UV protection at all. Sunglasses without UV filters can actually be worse than wearing none at all. This is because your pupils dilate when you wear dark lenses, allowing more harmful rays into the eye. Always look for a UKCA or CE mark, typically found on the inside of the temple. Good quality sunglasses will also likely have UV400 printed on them (or on a label/sticker supplied with them), which means they provide over 99% protection from harmful UVR. And you don’t have to buy expensive sunglasses to get protection – it is perfectly possible to buy sunglasses at under £20 (like Evolution!) that provide UV400 protection.
Myth 2: Sunglasses are just a style choice, not a health essential
Wrong again!
Sunglasses aren’t just for looking cool – they’re essential for protecting your eyes from long-term UV damage. Prolonged exposure to UV can lead to eye problems later in life, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and eyelid cancer. The damage can take years or even decades to show and can have a big impact on vision health later in life. Wearing sunglasses regularly when outdoors (throughout the year) will minimise the risks of these conditions.
Myth 3: The darker the lens, the more UV protection
Not true!
UV protection has nothing to do with lens colour or the density of tint of the sunglass lens. The UV filter applied to a lens is clear so even a clear lens can provide 100% protection from UVR. It’s worth noting that even without the addition of a UV filter, polycarbonate – the material used in the manufacture of most sports eyewear lenses – will screen out over 95% of UVR.
Myth 4: Children don’t need sunglasses as much as adults
Big misconception!
Children receive three times the annual sun exposure of adults, increasing their susceptibility to UV eye damage. UV damage is both cumulative and irreversible so it is important to protect children’s eyes as early as possible. Sun-related eye damage occurs in the early ages of childhood, particularly between the ages of three and 12. The simple precaution of ensuring children wear sunglasses will help reduce a child’s chance of developing eye problems such as macular degeneration and cancer of the eyelids later in life.
Myth 5: You don’t need to wear sunglasses on cloudy days
Definitely false!
Even when it’s overcast, up to 90% of UV radiation can still penetrate the clouds and so UV rays on cloudy days are still dangerous. As your eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV than skin, more than any other organ, the eye can suffer significant injury from the sun. Be sure to wear sunglasses and skin protection while outside at all times of the year.
Remember, when it comes to sunglasses don’t be misled by these common myths. The key is to look for UV protection, whether you’re buying high-end or budget-friendly sunglasses. Browse our gallery to help find your new pair of sunglasses.