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May 5, 2025

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Do Children Need Sunglasses?

As parents and caregivers, we understand the importance of using sunscreen to protect our child’s skin from the sun’s harmful rays. However, many parents may not realize that children’s eyes also need protection from the sun! Fortunately, as your optometrist, we have several helpful tips on protecting your child’s vision while they play outside.

HARMFUL ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT

We know that exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light can be damaging to our health, and this includes your eyes. The sun emits two types of UV rays we should be aware of: UVA and UVB rays.

UVA and UVB rays are not fully absorbed by our Earth’s atmosphere and pose a great risk to your visual health as the radiation can be absorbed by the eye leading to corneal and retinal damage.

WHY ARE CHILDREN AT RISK?

The lens of our eye works as a natural defense against UV light filtering out some of the harmful high-energy rays. Children are at a higher risk because their eyes are still maturing and cannot filter out harmful UV rays as effectively. Since UV damage builds over time, it is important to start protection against the sun’s rays early.

Though the effects of overexposure to UV rays are not specific to children, the dangers still apply.

Long-term vision problems include cataracts and macular degeneration which can lead to blurred vision, dull colors, partial or total loss of vision. Prolonged exposure over years may also increase the risk of developing eye growths known as pterygium.

Short-term vision problems include pain, discomfort, excessive tearing, redness, light sensitivity, and photokeratitis which is similar to a sunburn on your eye.

Children often spend a great amount of time outdoors, which is why we want to stress the importance of protecting their vision now from the harmful sun’s rays.

SUNGLASSES

One of the best ways to protect your child’s eyes from the sun is to purchase sunglasses for your child. By having your child wear sunglasses, you can lessen the amount of UV exposure your child’s eyes will have and reduce their risk of ocular UV damage later in life.

We encourage parents to schedule an eye exam for their child before purchasing sunglasses as children’s eyes change quickly and having the right prescription is important to help your child see clearly and comfortably.

When searching for a pair of sunglasses for your child, here are some things to consider:

  • Choose sunglasses that protect 100% against UVA and UVB rays
  • Frames that wrap around your child’s face add more protection
  • Select more durable impact-resistant frames and scratch-proof lenses

If your child wears prescription lenses, consider asking your optometrist about photochromic, or transition, lenses. These lenses change from clear to dark in the presence of sunlight to protect against the sun’s UV rays.

Remember that sunglasses are also needed on days that are cloudy and overcast! We also recommend parents and children protect their eyes when near water, snow, and sand as these surfaces are highly reflective.

OTHER TIPS

There are more ways than sunglasses to protect against the sun’s harmful ways. Use these other tips to help decrease your child’s exposure.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Apply it 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or as necessary if swimming or sweating.

Seek shade, especially during peak hours of sunlight. If your children like to play in the backyard, consider purchasing a sunshade or canopy to provide some protection against the sun.

Encourage hats that are wide-brimmed to add extra protection from the sun’s rays. This can help reduce the number of UV rays that reach the eyes.

Children follow by example; we strongly encourage parents and caregivers to also wear sunglasses when necessary. As optometrists, we are a great resource when it comes to ensuring healthy vision throughout the year. For more information on protecting your child’s vision or to schedule an appointment, contact TruVision Eye Care today.

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I’ve been coming to this place for annual eye exams and absolutely great customer service during my exam and at the front desk. The online check in forms make the visit go smoother and the text reminders for appointments are helpful and make it easy to reschedule without any issues. They have been great at explaining what my vision insurance will cover and drafting quotes to let me cost compare different lens options.

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Dr Kim and staff are very kind! The process and exam was relatively pain-free! Just be sure to check insurance coverage, they were also kind and patient in explaining the costs. My favorite experience so far.

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Dr. Tiffany Kim has done an amazing job as always I highly recommend her, I have been going to her for a couple of years now she’s also great with children. The staff at this location are very nice.

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Dr and staff are very friendly and helpful. They have a great selection of frames and help you find what looks good on you and fits your budget. I will definitely recommend them to others

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I usually have a hard time with eye exams. The docs get frustrated and I end up with a prescription that doesn’t work and I’m left unable to see properly. That did not happen here today. The doc was amazing and very knowledgeable in her field. The prescription I got has me seeing 20/15 which is better than normal!

Sinastra J.

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Everyone was friendly and knowledgeable. The tech made us feel comfortable especially my 8 year old. Talked and engaged with him on a level he could understand. Tiffany is always so wonderful and helpful. I always leave knowing was my best options for my eye health are.

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