June 27 is National Sunglasses Day

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is about 10% of the radiation put out by the sun. Its wavelength is shorter than visible light, but longer than X-rays. UV light is also produced by black lights, electric arc welders, germicidal lamps, mercury-vapor lamps, and tanning lights. In addition to causing sunburn, UV light damages the lens of the eye. Sunglasses can block the passage of UV light while still allowing clear vision. A wide variety of sunglasses is available. Polarized sunglass lenses reduce glare. Wrap-around sunglasses provide additional protection from not only UV radiation, but also dust, glare, and wind. Sunglasses can even be a fashion statement! Protection for your eyes isn’t only necessary during the summer. The sun puts out UV radiation all year long, so it is important to practice sun-safe behavior like wearing sunglasses whenever you are outside. The Vision Council recommends that you post a social media of yourself wearing sunglasses, and tag it #SunglassSelfie and @NationalSunglassesDay.