Content creator claims wearing sunglasses can harm your eyes. So, have we been wrong all this while?

Sunglasses are often seen as protectors for our eyes from the sun. But, not according to content creator Dennis Echelbarger.

“Sunglasses don’t protect your eyes, they actually do the opposite,” he cautions his followers. In the post, he continues to explain the reason behind this bold claim. “Human biology dictates that your eyes contain a high concentration of mitochondria,” he says.

“They block essential sunlight, crucial for the mitochondria in our eyes. This disruption can lead to serious conditions like macular degeneration, myopia, and glaucoma,” he captions the post. 

 

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A post shared by Dennis Echelbarger (@denny_dure) 

Is there any truth to his claim?

Dr Navya C , senior consultant, Opthalmology at Athreya Super Speciality Hospital, Bengaluru says, “Sunglasses primarily protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can contribute to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium.”

The concern that sunglasses might hinder natural eye regeneration by blocking essential sunlight, she asserts, needs to be balanced with the proven benefits of UV protection. “Scientific research, including studies published in the Journal of Ophthalmology, supports the use of UV-blocking sunglasses to prevent damage to the eye’s surface and internal structures,” she states.

Risks of prolonged exposure to artificial light

Prolonged exposure to artificial light sources, particularly blue light from digital devices, can contribute to digital eye strain and may increase the risk of macular damage over time. 

Protecting eyes from excessive artificial light exposure is crucial, according to Dr Navya, as indicated by research in the American Journal of Ophthalmology. Using glasses with blue light filters and taking regular breaks from screens can help mitigate these risks.

For overall health and vitamin D synthesis, moderate sun exposure to other parts of the body with proper skin protection is advisable. (Source: Freepik)

Benefits of smaller vs. larger sunglasses

“The notion that smaller sunglasses may be more beneficial by allowing some sunlight to reach the eyes is controversial,” she reveals.

While small amounts of UV exposure might be beneficial for vitamin D synthesis, the potential risk of UV damage to the eye often outweighs these benefits. 

Larger sunglasses that offer wrap-around protection can more effectively shield the eyes from harmful UV rays, as recommended by ophthalmology experts.

Eye protection in regions with intense sunlight

In regions with intense sunlight, like many parts of India, Dr Navya recommends balancing eye protection with natural sunlight exposure. “Ophthalmologists recommend wearing broad-spectrum UV protection sunglasses that block out 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays.”

For overall health and vitamin D synthesis, moderate sun exposure to other parts of the body with proper skin protection is advisable. Sunglasses with adequate UV protection that do not compromise peripheral vision are recommended for optimal eye health.

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