Sunglasses are a summer essential, protecting eyes from bright light and harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays while adding a touch of style. National Sunglasses Day, on June 27, reminds people to wear sunglasses that block UV rays, which can damage eyes over time. It's also a fun day to celebrate the history and fashion of shades.
History of National Sunglasses Day
People have protected their eyes from glare for thousands of years. Inuit peoples carved snow goggles from bone, ivory or wood with narrow slits to reduce glare from snow and ice. In 12th-century China, judges reportedly wore lenses made of smoky quartz, possibly to hide their expressions.
Modern sunglasses became popular in the 20th century. In 1929, Sam Foster began selling inexpensive sunglasses on the boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey. In the 1930s, aviator sunglasses were developed for pilots to reduce glare at high altitudes. Polarized lenses, which reduce reflected glare, were developed by Edwin Land in the 1930s.
Hollywood stars made sunglasses fashionable. National Sunglasses Day was created by The Vision Council to promote UV protection for eyes.
Why National Sunglasses Day Matters
UV rays can harm eyes, contributing to conditions such as cataracts, according to eye health organizations.
Sunglasses protect eyes during outdoor activities like driving, hiking and swimming.
Children's eyes also need protection, since they spend a lot of time outdoors. Choosing sunglasses labeled to block 100% UV rays is an easy step for eye health.
Sunglasses can also improve comfort and safety. Reducing glare helps drivers see the road more clearly, and polarized lenses help anglers and boaters see beneath the water's surface. Wraparound styles offer extra protection from light coming in from the sides, which is useful during outdoor sports.
How to Celebrate National Sunglasses Day
- Wear sunglasses: choose a pair that blocks 100% UVA and UVB rays.
- Check labels: look for 'UV400' or '100% UV protection'.
- Protect kids: get sunglasses for children too.
- Take a selfie: share your favorite shades.
- Get an eye exam: see an eye doctor regularly.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, employers with outdoor workers can provide UV-protective eyewear. Office teams can take a fun sunglasses photo. In classrooms, students can learn about UV light and how sunglasses block it, make snow goggles from cardboard to learn about Inuit innovation, or test UV-sensitive beads. At home, families can check whether their sunglasses offer UV protection, buy sunglasses for children, and wear hats for extra protection. Never look directly at the sun, even with sunglasses.
Fun Facts About National Sunglasses Day
- Inuit snow goggles reduced glare from snow.
- Sam Foster sold sunglasses in Atlantic City in 1929.
- Edwin Land developed polarized lenses in the 1930s.
National Sunglasses Day FAQs
When is National Sunglasses Day?
National Sunglasses Day is June 27.
Do darker lenses block more UV?
Not necessarily; check the UV protection label.
What are polarized lenses?
Lenses that reduce reflected glare from surfaces like water.
Do children need sunglasses?
Yes; children's eyes also benefit from UV protection.