History of Sunglasses: Eye Safety and Style | Still Friday – StillFriday

History of Sunglasses: Eye Safety and Style | Still Friday

November 02, 2021

Sunglasses have been an essential accessory, a tool of survival, for thousands of years, originating with the Inuit people who needed to protect their eyes from the harsh glare of the sun reflecting off the snow. While early sunglasses look quite different to what we see today, they were always designed to improve vision and reduce eye train. Fast forward to the present, and the use of sunglasses has increased, both as a method of UV protection and as a staple fashion accessory. We'll explore everything you need to know about the history of sunglasses, and why they are still useful for both style and function.

Evolution of Sunglasses

Origin of Snow Goggles for UV Protection

Example of early Inuit snow goggles for UV protection, as part of the history of Sunglasses

Around 2,000 years ago, the Inuit people used "snow goggles" to protect their eyes from the intense sunlight reflected off the snow. These early sunglasses were constructed from carved driftwood, walrus ivory, bone, or caribou antler, and featured narrow slits to reduce glare and improve focus. Surprisingly, gunpowder and soot were sometimes added to absorb sunlight for additional protection.

Smoke-tinted quartz sunglasses lenses from 12th-century China

Early Sunglasses in 12th-Century China: Smoke-Tinted Quartz Lenses

In 12th century China, a different form of sunglasses emerged - glasses with smoke-tinted quartz lenses. They were primarily worn by magistrates during court hearings to conceal their expressions and protect their eyes from unwanted glare. They're some of the earliest examples of modern-day eyewear.

ModernSunglasses: Style Meets Safety

Today, sunglasses have evolved into a must-have accessory that combines fashion with functionality. Modern sunglasses are designed not only to shield eyes from harmful UV rays, but also to enhance vision and provide comfort. Available in various tints, designs, shapes, and functions, modern sunglasses cater to a wide range of needs while remaining trendy and fashionable.

Why Sunglasses are Vital to Eye Health

Many people focus entirely on the trendiness of sunglasses as a fashion accessory. While they certainly can bring an outfit together, sunglasses are first and foremost a tool to protect your eyes from a range of potential injuries.

Protecting Your Eyes from Harmful UV Rays and Evironmental Elements

Polarized sunglasses are extremely efficient at maintaining eye health in bright conditions

With increased global warming, the dangers posed by UV rays are more prominent than ever. Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are essential to mitigate the risk of eye conditions such as cataracts, pterygium, and macular degeneration. Sunglasses also act as a physical barrier against environmental elements such as sand, wind, and dust, which at best can irritate the eyes, or at worst damage the cornea.

Those who live in snowy areas should also be cautious of “snow blindness”, a temporary loss of vision caused by the glare of sunlight on snow. This can be prevented with polarized sunglasses, which are equipped with special lenses with a chemical coating that blocks the horizontal light waves that cause glare.

Improving Vision in Bright Conditions

Sunglasses, even non-polarized lenses, are efficient at reducing glare, improving color contrast, and enhancing overall clarity in bright conditions. These benefits help reduce eye strain, or eye fatigue, that is often the result of prolonged squinting. Reducing eye strain allows you to peform everyday activities, such as driving, more comfortably and safety.

Aiding Recovery After Eye Surgery

Doctors recommend their patients wear sunglasses after undergoing corrective eye surgeries such as LASIK or cataract surgery. The protection shades supply ensures that sensitive, post-op eyes are shielded from exposure to UV rays, aiding in a faster and healthier recovery.

When is the Best Time to Wear Sunglasses?

Sunglasses aren’t just for sunny days! As a tool of eyewear protection, they’re suitable for all weather conditions and can be worn year-around.

It’s actually recommended to do so, as it’s possible to be exposed to UV rays in any conditions. Whether you’re near coastal areas with reflective water or in snowy regions where sunlight bounces off the snow, wearing sunglasses is crucial to preventing UV damage and cornea burn, and to maintain eye heath. Never leave home without your favorite pair of sunglasses!

How to Choose the Right Sunglasses for You

Given their importance for both style and eye health, selecting the right pair of sunglasses is key. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

100% UV Protection: Ensure your sunglasses provide complete UV filtration to protect your eyes.Lens Tinting: While tints can be a cosmetic choice, select ones that suit your needs and preferences.Polarized sunglasses: Polarized lenses reduce glare, enhancing your vision and clarity in bright, potentially sunsafe, considitons..
Wraparound Style: This style reduces UV exposure from all angles, offering more overall protection.

A varitey of sunglasses styles means more fashionable options, but it’s vital to choose the right pair for your eye health

Sunglasses: The Ultimate Blend of Fashion and Eye Safety

Sunglasses are more than a powerful fashion statement, they are a practical tool for maintaining long-term eye health. They provide essential protection from UV rays and environmental elements, all while enhancing your overall look. With a diverse range of styles, tints, and features available, sunglasses are a must-have for any outfit, of every style, in all seasons. Ready to invest in both eye safety and style for your business? Explore Still Friday wholesale sunglasses today!