Spring and summer bring sunshine and longer days, and, unfortunately, itchy, watery eyes for many. Constantly blinking, rubbing your eyes, or overcoming redness on the outside could indicate the presence of allergens. Although most people would prefer medicines or eye drops, there is still a simple tool that one might already have: sunglasses.
But can shades help lessen the impact of allergens on your eyes? In short, yes—backed by science. Let’s go into detail about how sunglasses can be your covert weapon when it comes to outside eye allergies.
What Causes Outdoor Allergies?
Outdoor eye allergies, or allergic conjunctivitis, are generally caused by airborne particles. These microscopic irritants get stuck on the surface of your eyes and then invoke immune responses. This results in the classic symptoms of:
- Redness
- Tearing
- Itchiness
- Swelling
- Burning sensation
Some common offenders- beating around the bush- include:
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Dust and dirt, especially in windy weather
- Mold spores, often suspended in humid air
- Pollution, smoke, and smog
Your eyes are extremely sensitive. Exposing them gives these allergens a free ticket inside, very much so on outdoor occasions.
How Sunglasses Protect From Eye Allergies?
Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun and UV rays and provide a second layer of protection against allergens in the air. How?
- Block airborne particles: The sunglasses aim to obstruct the movement of airborne allergens headed straight into your eyes, at least while wrapping around the sides of your face.
- Reduce exposure to the wind: Wind helps carry allergens and push them into the eyes. Sunglasses have created a quiet zone right in front of the eyes, where these allergens meet less.
- Discourage eye rubbing: The urge to rub is awfully strong when the eyes start to itch. However, doing so causes more harm than good. Wearing sunglasses will, in effect, create a barrier that gently reminds you to keep those hands away.
In essence, sunglasses are like shields: they do not eliminate environmental allergens but reduce the volume that reaches your eyes.
How To Choose Sunglasses That Prevent Eye Allergies?
Whereas most sunglasses are good, some are definitely not tailored for good defense against allergies. If you’re looking for a pair of sunglasses to ward off eye allergies, consider the following:
- Wraparound frames: This will provide side protection from allergens sneaking in from the edges.
- Close-fit design: Sunglasses that hug the face will cover the face even better.
- Comfortable fit: Good to wear daily means they must be comfortable on your face for hours.
A bonus: Some sports or cycling sunglasses have anti-dust features and wind-blocking fronts, which can be useful for allergy sufferers.
A Few Additional (Optional) Methods to Help
Sunglasses really do add a lot of protection, but if you adopt other habits, they can provide better protection:
- Put on a wide-brimmed hat to cover large areas from exposure.
- Do not be outdoors within the early hours when pollen levels are high.
- Rinse the face by washing the eyes after doing outdoor activities.
- However, sunglasses do add quite a lot to comfort.
Around 40% of the U.S. population is affected by eye allergies. If you also have allergies whenever you step outside, it is probably time to up your sunglasses game. Wraparound shades look cool and protect your eyes from allergens that trigger irritating reactions.
They are simple and stylish but surprisingly effective. So for the next time you want to run outside into the sunshine, think about sunglasses for the eyes too.
