There’s something about stepping out into the summer sun that instantly puts you in a good mood—until you find yourself squinting, tearing up, or dealing with a pounding headache. It’s not just the brightness that’s working against you. The desert sun beams powerful UV rays that can do more than make your eyes uncomfortable—they can cause long-term sun damage if you’re not protecting them.
Our team takes the time to help each person find the right sunglasses, not just the trendy ones, but the ones that keep their eyes healthy and protected.
How the Sun Affects Your Eyes
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays don’t just affect your skin—they can do lasting damage to your eyes if you’re not careful. Prolonged exposure has been linked to serious eye conditions like:
- Cataracts: The sun's UV rays can accelerate the clouding of the eye’s lens.
- Macular Degeneration: A leading cause of vision loss, made worse by unprotected UV exposure.
- Pinguecula and Pterygium: These are growths on the eye’s surface that can become uncomfortable and affect your vision.
- Photokeratitis: A temporary but painful “sunburn” on the eye’s surface, often caused by intense light reflecting off water, sand, or pavement.
- Eyelid Skin Cancer: The thin skin around the eyes is particularly vulnerable to UV-related skin cancers.
Even if your eyes feel fine, the long-term risk builds slowly. That’s why we recommend year-round UV protection—especially for our Marlborough patients, who are often exposed to sunshine year-round.
Features of High-Quality Sunglasses to Look for
Not all sunglasses work equally well. If you’re picking them based purely on how they look, it might be time to rethink that strategy. Here’s what we guide our patients to look for at Steven Rafalowsky O.D.:
100% UV Protection
The label should clearly say that the lenses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Don’t settle for less. Anything labeled “cosmetic” or “fashion” may not offer any protection at all.
Polarized Lenses
Polarization cuts through glare—especially useful for driving, boating, and just walking around town during the hottest parts of the day. Many patients report that polarized lenses make their daily commutes more comfortable and help reduce headaches.
Wraparound Designs
These styles protect your peripheral vision and block sunlight from sneaking in through the sides. For those who spend a lot of time outdoors or drive long distances, this style is especially helpful.
Lens Material & Tint
Polycarbonate lenses offer impact resistance and are an excellent option for children and active adults. We also help patients choose the right tint—not just dark, but the right color for contrast and clarity based on how and where you’ll use them.
Prescription Compatibility
Need vision correction? No problem. Our in-house finishing lab can craft prescription sunglasses quickly, often in under four days. Whether you’re near- or far-sighted, we make it easy to stay protected without sacrificing clarity.
Enjoy the Summer with Sunglasses from Steven Rafalowsky O.D.
Sunglasses aren’t just an accessory—they’re a layer of daily defense against vision problems. At Steven Rafalowsky O.D., we help you choose from a curated collection of premium, durable, and stylish frames that don’t just protect your eyes but also fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re chasing after children at the splash pad, hiking, or heading to brunch, your eyes deserve protection that looks and feels great.
Let our team help you find high-quality sunglasses that do more than just block UV rays. Book your eye care appointment with us and discover how easy it is to receive quality, personalized care—beginning with the perfect pair of shades.
