Wearing sunglasses whenever you’re outside for an extended period of time protects your vision from the sun’s UV rays. However, unless you’re a vision care professional, you might not realize that your sunglasses can “expire” over time. If you’ve had yours for several years, ask about getting a new pair at your next eye exam.

The lenses in sunglasses are covered in a protective coating that prevents the sun’s rays from harming your eyes. The problem is, many people aren’t careful with their sunglasses. They toss them in bags, store them in pockets, and occasionally drop them on the ground. That kind of wear and tear erodes the protective material, reducing the effectiveness of your sunglasses.

Unfortunately, there’s no clear “expiration date” for a given pair. How often you need to replace yours depends on how well you care for them. The best rule of thumb is to schedule a visit to a vision care center once every year or two with the intention of getting a new pair of sunglasses.

You may be tempted to buy the most stylish pair on the rack at your local department store, but it’s better to have an eye doctor or similar professional on hand when getting a replacement pair. Not all sunglasses block UV rays effectively. You need an expert to recommend the best pair to enhance your vision care.

To extend their lifespan, always store them in an eyeglass container, clean the lenses regularly, and take care when putting your sunglasses on or putting them away. At your next eye exam, ask if there are any extra steps you should take to keep your sunglasses in good condition.

If you need quality vision care in the Show Low, AZ, area, schedule an appointment with Dr. L. R. Gabe, offering treatment for over 40 years to patients. Whether you need a vision test or new prescription glasses, they’ll provide you with optimal care. Contact the office online to learn about becoming a patient, or call (928) 537-5565.