It is important to protect your child's eyes from excessive exposure to sunlight as it is to protect his skull from sunburn.  Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight can damage the lens and retina of the eye, causing cataracts and other conditions that may harm your child's vision later in life.

Whenever your child is in the sun long enough to get a sunburn or tan, they should wear sunglasses.  It is never too early to start wearing them.  Even infants can.  The following tips will help you choose the proper sunglasses for your child and use them effectively.

To protect the eye well, sunglasses must absorb at least 99% of UV radiation.  Good sunglasses do not have to be expensive, but they must have a label indication sufficient UV blocking capacity.  Choose only sunglasses with the following label:

If your child already has sunglasses and you are not sure whether they provide adequate UV protection you can have them tested by an optician.

Darkness of the lens is not related to UV blocking capacity.  Sunglasses protect against UV light because a chemical added to the lens absorbs the rays, not because the lenses are dark.  Likewise, polarized lenses and mirror lenses are not UV protective unless they are appropriately labeled.

Larger lenses, well fitted and close to the surface of the eye, provide the best protection.  Glasses with side shields give added protection against peripheral light rays.  Non breakable plastic lenses and frames are the best choice for children.

Allow older children to help choose their sunglasses.  Children are more likely to wear glasses they find attractive and comfortable.

If your child wears prescription eyeglasses, he/she should also have prescription sunglasses.  Contact lenses provide no UV protection, so children who wear them should wear (nonprescription) sunglasses as well.

Sunglasses are not a substitute for other protective measures such as sunscreens and hats with brims.