While most people recognize the need to protect their skin from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing, there is much less awareness in the United States when it comes to the need to protect your eyes from UV light. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer.

The risk caused by ultraviolet (UV) light is particularly significant for infants and younger children, because as kids get older, cells are deposited in the lens that increase the absorption of ultraviolet radiation, making damage to the retina less likely.

Harmful UV light is most intense between the hours of 10am and 2pm. Most experts in skin and eye health recommend keeping your children indoors between these hours, but whenever you venture outside there are a few things you can do to protect your eyes, and your kids.

Wearing sunglasses that block 97-100% of UV-A and UV-B rays will offer good protection to your eyes, as well as helping to improve your daytime vision by reducing squinting and blocking glare when doing important activities like driving.  In addition to sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat will help block additional sun from entering your eyes around your sunglasses.

If you’re looking for an online store with a large selection of UV blocking sunglasses, check out Sunglass Warehouse.  They have an easy to use shopping cart that makes online ordering a snap, and they focus on customer service with a 365 day return policy and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.