Usually when people shop for sunglasses, they’re more focused on how they look in them rather than how well they protect their eyes. However, there is a purpose to sunglasses that goes beyond making you look good. Sunglasses make it easier to see on a sunny day and are also a great defense against UV rays that can cause short- and long-term eye damage.

Let’s go over a few basic tips for choosing the right eyewear for the warm, sunny summer season ahead of us!

Look for 100% UV Protection

Believe it or not, your eyes are just as susceptible to sunburn as the rest of your body. When starting your search, you can automatically omit the glasses that don’t offer 100% UV protection. Surprisingly, less than half of people bother to look at UV ratings according to research from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Luckily, it’s easy to check for this protection. Simply look for a sticker or tag saying “UV400” or “100% UV Protection.” If the glasses don’t have it, move on.

Bigger is Always Better

In this case, size matters. Bigger sunglasses provide more coverage, further protecting your eyes. If you want protection from the sides as well, opt for wrap-around sunglasses or large, oversized glasses. Fortunately, big shades are the look these days, so you won’t look out of place wearing them; even the celebrities love them!

Color Doesn’t Matter

Some people think that darker lenses offer more protection, but this isn’t the case. Always read the tag or sticker to know for sure rather than relying on color.

Aside from dark and light lenses, there are also sunglasses with amber, green or gray lenses. These lenses don’t block more sun, but they can be helpful in increasing contrast.

Polarized Lenses Only Reduce Glare

Polarized lenses are attractive for people who spend a lot of time in the sun because they cut glare. This makes outdoor activities like being on the water or driving more enjoyable. But it’s important to realize that polarized lenses do not offer any additional protection from the sun. You still need to choose lenses that offer the right amount of UV protection.

The next time you go shopping for sunglasses, be sure to remember the above tips.