Myth or Fact: Can wearing cheap sunglasses ruin your eyes? Expert clarifies

Myth or Fact: Can wearing cheap sunglasses ruin your eyes? Expert clarifies

New Delhi: Sunglasses have always been a fashion statement in almost every season. But when you purchase a new sunglass, what do you look for a branded one or one that may protect your eyes, like ultraviolet protection, glare protection or one that you can use for basic regular use? This is a common question that comes to everyone’s mind. According to recent trends, doctors have warned us against buying cheap sunglasses on social media reels. While sunglasses are one of the major fashion statements, some of them come with hidden risks associated with them owing to poor quality.

In conversation with News9, Dr Ketan Patel, Ophthalmologist, at Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara said, “The inexpensive shades may look trendy and attractive due to unique designs but are often made of poor-quality materials and lack UV protection can lead to serious eye damage over time. Exposure to heavy unfiltered sunlight can trigger conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts and in the worst-case scenarios even some types of eye cancers.”

Can it ruin your vision or is it a myth?

Sunglasses without proper UV protection can always harm your vision. “This is because they lack the important UV-blocking capabilities which are present in quality eyewear, exposing your eyes to harmful UV rays. Long-time exposure to such harmful sunlight may cause conditions like cataracts, dry eyes, ocular melanoma, macular degeneration and pterygiums (surfer’s eye),” said Dr Patel.

How to spot cheap sunglasses that can impact your eyes?

To identify cheap and low-quality sunglasses that may harm your eyes, one should check for various key indicators. Firstly, inspect the lenses for the genuine labels indicating UV protection—actual good quality sunglasses will ensure 100 per cent UV protection or UV400. Poor-quality sunglasses often lack this crucial feature. Secondly, examine the build quality and materials; flimsy frames and poor built quality are hidden dangers for your skin too.

Do expensive glasses equate to good for your eyes?

High-priced sunglasses don’t always ensure better eye protection. They might offer brand reputation, superior craftsmanship and good designs, the essential question is whether they provide the correct UV protection or not. The key factor to be considered while buying sunglasses should be that they meet the UV standards and not solely focus on their cost.

 Social media is seeing reels of doctors warning us against buying cheap sunglasses. While sunglasses are one of the major fashion statements, some of them come with hidden risks associated with them owing to poor quality. But can it ruin your eyes?  Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare