VOLUME 71: Why Is UV Protection on Prescription Glasses Important?

Sunlight does more than brighten your day — it slowly chips away at your eyesight. Whether you’re walking the dog or reading by a window, your eyes are soaking up rays you can’t see. Most people are good about sunscreen, yet few think about UV damage to their eyes. That’s a big miss.

If your glasses don’t filter out ultraviolet light, you’re not as protected as you think. Over time, that adds up. It doesn’t matter if you’re in direct sun or under a cloudy sky — the exposure still happens. Choosing the right pair of lenses isn’t about comfort; it’s about keeping your vision strong for the years ahead.

What kind of damage does UV light cause?

Eye damage from UV happens slowly. You won’t feel it coming, and there are rarely any early signs. But over the years, it can lead to:

• Clouding of the lens, also known as cataracts
• Damage to the part of the retina responsible for sharp focus
• Surface growths that may require surgery
• Skin cancer near the eyelids

These aren’t rare problems. And they don’t only affect people who spend summers at the cottage. UV light reflects off sidewalks, snow, and water. That means you're exposed even on a quick walk or drive.

You can reduce sun exposure to your eyes by using natural barriers like hats or staying in shaded areas — helpful steps even without glasses on. Still, lenses with built-in UV protection give you the most consistent coverage throughout the day.

Why doesn’t it hurt when UV is damaging your eyes?

Unlike a sunburn, UV damage to your eyes doesn’t sting or peel. It builds up quietly, which makes it easy to ignore. That’s part of the danger.

UV rays don’t care if it’s sunny or not — they can pass through clouds and glass. They can cause temporary irritation, too, like the feeling of sand in your eye, but that often goes away quickly and gets brushed off.

Because of that, many people assume their eyes are fine. But the slow damage continues. By the time vision starts to decline, it’s already serious. That’s why UV filtering in lenses isn’t just for high heat or beach days. It’s a year-round need.

Are your glasses really doing the job?

If your prescription lenses don’t say they block UV, don’t assume they do. Not all glasses are made equal. Some clear lenses look protective but offer no actual barrier. Others might tint but still let UV slip through. Here’s what often goes unnoticed:

• People wear their glasses more outdoors once they can see clearly.
• Tinted lenses can be misleading — they darken the light but don’t always filter UV.
• Cheaper options might skip UV protection entirely to cut costs.

If you’re spending good money on frames, it makes sense to make sure they’re doing more than helping you read street signs. Skipping UV protection isn’t a minor oversight — it could leave you with long-term problems.

What sets UV-protective lenses apart?

Lenses with UV protection either absorb or block harmful rays. Some are made from materials that naturally protect your eyes. Others use added coatings. The best ones stop both UVA and UVB rays — these are the wavelengths known to cause lasting harm. Some options to consider:

• Lenses that darken outside, adapting to light levels
• Lightweight polycarbonate lenses, which come with built-in UV protection
• Clear lenses that have been treated to block UV without changing colour

Wearing prescription glasses that include reliable UV protection is an easy way to safeguard your eyesight long-term — particularly if you rely on them throughout the day.

Before buying, ask if the lenses include UV protection. It’s not always standard, and skipping it can leave your eyes exposed.

Do certain frames make a difference?

Yes, they do. Even with good lenses, some frame styles leave gaps that let UV rays in from the top or sides. A frame that hugs your face offers better coverage than one that sits wide and open.

Frames that look stylish but leave half your face uncovered aren’t doing much for sun protection. If UV safety is your goal, make sure to choose glasses for sun safety. And yes, even in Canada’s cooler seasons, UV is still in play — especially with snow glare in winter.

When should you check your prescription?

Even if your lenses have UV protection, they’re no good if your prescription is off. Outdated glasses can cause strain, and that stress only gets worse in bright conditions. Here’s when to update:

• If you’re squinting more, getting headaches, or noticing blur
• Every couple of years at a minimum
• Before buying new frames or lens upgrades

These days, lenses can come with extras like anti-reflective coatings, blue light filters, and scratch resistance — not just UV protection in eyewear. Make sure you understand what’s built in, and don’t be shy about asking for the details. Old lenses might still claim to offer UV safety, but they could be scratched or worn down enough to lose their effectiveness.

Final thoughts

If your glasses aren’t protecting you from UV, your eyes are taking damage every time you step outside. You won’t feel it today — but it shows up later. The best way to protect your sight isn’t complicated. Start with the right lenses, make sure they’re treated to block UV, and double-check your prescription before buying.

In Canada, access to locally produced eyewear means it’s possible to choose lenses made here in Toronto, combined with frames manufactured in Australia. Our approach focuses on reducing cost without relying on imported mass-market models.

For many people, buying from a local business is a conscious decision — a way to support the economy, keep production closer to home, and invest in goods designed with long-term use in mind. If you’re looking to make a change, supporting Canadian-made products can be one way to align your choices with your values.

If you’re unsure what to look for in a pair, you can get advice from Dresden Vision experts who can help you match your needs to the right kind of protection.