There are different types of sunglasses, including non-polarized and polarized sunglasses for added glare reduction. Some sunglasses also have color-tinted shades or are made of scratch-resistant materials.^1,3

It’s no wonder why the sunglass market is growing. Its value reached $16,851 million in 2019, and experts expect it to grow to $18,164 million by 2027.²

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With more options out there, choosing the right sunglasses can be difficult. This is especially true when there are several places to shop for them. To help you shop, here are the best places to look for new sunglasses, both online and in-person.

Best Places to Buy Sunglasses Online

If you’re looking for new sunglasses, remember to check out these online glasses retailers for some of the best sunglass selections.

GlassesUSA

GlassesUSA is by glasses wearers for glasses wearers. The site offers a 365-day warranty and a 100% money-back guarantee within 14 days for a full refund if you’re unhappy with your new glasses. Shipping and returns are free.

Knockaround

Knockaround is a San Diego-based sunglasses company. Their mission is to make sunglasses affordable without sacrificing quality or style.

Starting at $28, these sunglasses are available in 14 frame styles. You can also create a DIY pair. They all have standard UV400 protection, and some have polarized lenses.

Nordstrom

Nordstrom has all sorts of items, including sunglasses. You can find brands like BABYFACE, BOSS, COACH, DIOR, Fendi, Givenchy, Prada, and more. Sort by color, gender, and other filters.

Quay Australia

Quay Australia is an Australian store that sells prescription glasses. It carries eyeglasses from different brands, including Prada, Oakley, Ray-Ban, and Carrera.

You can also buy sunglasses from Quay Australia. The company allows you to do a virtual try-on to see how your shades look before you buy them.

EyeBuyDirect

At EyeBuyDirect, you can find thousands of affordable eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses that start at just $9. You can also try them on virtually before you buy them.

EyeBuyDirect has been around since 2005. Its mission is to make high-quality eyewear at a low price.

Amazon

You can find almost anything you need on Amazon. Just typing “sunglasses” into the search bar gets over 30,000 results. Unsurprisingly, you can buy prescription glasses online on Amazon, too.

Shop for glasses you can get by tomorrow if you want a pair quickly. You can also sort sunglasses by “try before you buy” options so you can be sure before you pay. Amazon has everything from designer sunglasses to cheaper alternatives.

Best Places to Buy Prescription Sunglasses Online

If you wear prescription glasses, here are some of the best places to buy prescription sunglasses online.

Warby Parker

Warby Parker is a well-known eyeglasses brand with stores and an online shopping site. You can renew your prescription online for just $15. Or, you can book an eye exam at a local store. Walk-in appointments are also available, but buying glasses online may be easier.

When shopping online, you can take a quiz to determine what frames work best. You can also try on up to five frames at home for free (including return shipping).

GlassesUSA

GlassesUSA offers endless prescription lenses to choose from. You can take a quiz to find the best frames for your face shape and other needs.

If you’re unhappy with them within 14 days, you can get a full refund.

Liingo

Liingo makes eyewear for men and women. You can find prescription lenses, sunglasses, and even blue-light glasses on the online glasses retailer.

You can virtually try on sunglasses or pick up to five frames to have shipped directly to your door to try on in real life. Trying them on is free.

Zenni

Zenni has been around for over 20 years. The company is constantly coming out with new looks. You can shop the top trends or the latest drops or filter by frame color, face shape, and more.

The virtual try-on feature helps you choose a pair. Once you’ve selected a pair, they will be individually crafted at the company’s manufacturing facility and shipped directly to you.

EyeBuyDirect

At EyeBuyDirect, you can shop for thousands of glasses, including prescription sunglasses, online and at a low cost. Try them on virtually before you buy them.

Best Places to Buy Sunglasses In Person

Online retailers are convenient, but trying on prescription glasses in person is better for some people.

If you prefer to shop in person, here are some of the best places to go.

LensCrafters

LensCrafters has over 1,000 stores. You can pop into one for a free fitting and adjustment. You can also shop for prescription sunglasses in stores and online.

LensCrafters accepts most insurance plans and offers free shipping and 30-day returns. So you don’t have to worry if you leave the store and change your mind.

Sunglass Hut

Sunglass Hut allows you to order online and pick up your pair in stores after 3 business hours. You can also find a store to browse your favorite styles there. The stores carry brands like Ray-Ban, Oakley, Versace, Prada, Burberry, and more.

Warby Parker

Stop in a Warby Parker store for a quick eye exam or to shop for prescription sunglasses. You can make an in-store appointment or walk right in to look around.

Target

Target offers in-store pickup, so, if you order sunglasses online, they’ll be ready within 2 hours. You can also just find a store near you and visit the sunglasses section to shop in person. You’ll find endless brands, like Vogue Eyewear, Wild Fable, Valentino, Tommy Hilfiger, Tom Ford, and more.

Best Places to Buy Prescription Sunglasses In Person

Check out these shops if you are searching for prescription sunglasses in stores.

Warby Parker

Again, you can shop at Warby Parker online or in stores. You can easily go into a store to look for prescription sunglasses. You can try them on when you shop in person and see how they fit your face.

LensCrafters

Stop into any one of LensCrafters’ over 1,000 stores for a free fitting or adjustment. You can also shop for prescription sunglasses.

Your Local Eye Doctor

Your local eye doctor may have prescription sunglasses for sale. You can always start by asking your doctor for recommendations on the best place to buy sunglasses.

Maybe you don’t want to spend too much on sunglasses because you tend to lose or break them. Or, perhaps you’d rather spend your money elsewhere. 

Knockaround Sunglasses won’t break the bank or sacrifice quality. Plus, you can design your own pair at the Knockaround CUSTOM Shop with any of the 15 different frame styles (plus glasses for kids). 

Over one million possible combinations exist, including Limited Edition and designer styles.²

Do We Recommend Knockaround Sunglasses?

We recommend Knockaround sunglasses for anyone looking to spend less. While there are tons of fantastic designer brands out there to find quality sunglasses, Knockaround sunglasses are a cheaper alternative.

With Knockaround sunglasses, you can protect your eyes from harmful UV light while protecting the environment from plastic pollution. 

Who Should Get Knockaround Sunglasses?

We recommend Knockaround sunglasses for anyone:

• Who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money on an expensive option 
• With a tendency to lose sunglasses or break them (for example, those who travel a lot and are likely to leave sunglasses behind)
• Who plays contact sports and might be more prone to breaking their sunglasses
• Who wants to design their sunglasses with a million different combinations of customized styles

You shouldn’t get Knockaround sunglasses if you need specific prescription glasses. Talk to your doctor about options that fit your budget.

Knockaround Sunglasses Styles

There are 15 different types of Knockaround sunglass styles, including:¹

Knockaround Premiums

Knockaround Premiums are an updated version of their classic design. They come with FDA-approved impact-resistant and UV400 protective lenses. They’re available in various colors and can be customized on the website.

Fort Knocks

Fort Knocks have a classic and durable design. The injection-molded frames are so tough, they are named after the United States Bullion Depository in Fort Knox, Kentucky. There are metal accent bars, and the lenses are fully UV400 protected.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles is inspired by the Central California city of Paso Robles, which is known for its vineyards and olive groves. These stylish sunglasses are cool and casual. They also provide UV400 protection. 

Fast Lanes

Fast Lanes feature rectangular lenses that come in various vibrant colors and neutral hues. They are designed for medium and larger face shapes. Like the others, they feature FDA-approved and impact-resistant lenses that protect your eyes from UV light.

Seventy Nines

Seventy Nines are more of a fashion statement—but they don’t sacrifice eye protection. They’re intended to be a cool pair of sunnies that can take you from the office to your weekend away with a low-profile silhouette. They have recessed metallic hardware and are made with five-barrel hinges.

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines are large rectangular shades that are designed for chilling and adventuring alike. The design was inspired by the waters north of La Jolla, California. The FDA-approved lenses are impact resistant and provide UV400 protection.

Brightsides

Brightsides are a staple in the Knockaround collection. They pair impact-resistant and polarized lenses with brightly colored, rounded frames. They feature oversized lenses and brow support to ensure they fit comfortably.

Songbirds

Songbirds are a vintage style with an old Hollywood glamor look and a modern twist. They are polarized sunglasses that offer UV400 protection with impact resistance and thick temple support for functionality and fit.

Pacific Palisades

Pacific Palisades is designed for the beach lifestyle. They feature rounded rectangular lenses with retro brow bars. The polarized lenses offer UV protection, so you can spend all day, every day, in the sun.

Mai Tais

Mai Tais are “equal parts laid-back and sophisticated.” The rounded frames are durable enough to handle demanding conditions, in case you go adventuring. They’re also equipped with FDA-approved and impact-resistant UV400 protective lenses.

Mary Janes

Mary Janes feature retro rounded lenses and thin wire arms, which are especially flattering on medium and small face shapes. While they’re small, they don’t skimp on UV400 protection. Plus, they’re polarized for glare protection.

Deja Views

Deja Views are oversized sunglasses with a little bit of a cat-eye flair but a modern look. They have full UV400 protection and come in a number of fun colors from Spanish rose to coastal dunes.

Mount Evans

Mount Evans are not your grandfather’s aviators. Rather than the traditional round shape, these ones are square-shaped and stylish with a low-profile silhouette. The polarized UV400 protective lenses are also impact resistant.

Mile Highs

Mile Highs are classic polarized aviators with slim, metal frames. They have glare-free and crack- and scratch-resistant polarized lenses. They also come in classic colors, like gold or silver metal frames with colorful lens options.

Classics

Classics offer a timeless design with a slightly arched top and rounded bottom. They’re good go-to pairs of long-lasting frames with UV400 protective lenses. They were designed with performance, affordability, and durability all in mind.

Knockaround Lens Options

Knockaround sunglasses have different lens options. You can choose between standard lenses or polarized lenses.

Standard lenses are regular lenses. They are the same throughout and simply filter UV rays. These types of lenses are ideal for everyday wear in the sun.³

Polarized lenses are coated with a thin chemical film. They allow vertical light waves to travel through the lens but filter horizontal light waves. This reduces glare, which makes these lenses ideal for things like driving in the snow.³

However, polarized lenses tend to dim and darken images.³ The type of lenses you should buy depends on your needs. It’s always best to have both options handy to cover all situations.

Are Knockaround Sunglasses Worth It?

Whether or not Knockaround sunglasses are worth it depends entirely on you and your needs. If you lose or break sunglasses all the time, buying Knockaround sunnies that won’t hurt your wallet so much is a good idea.

Knockaround sunglasses are designed to be functional and affordable.

There are plenty of options to choose from, including polarized and non-polarized lenses. And you can even design your own custom pair. 

About the Knockaround Company

Knockaround makes everyday sunglasses that you can wear to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV light. The San Diego-based company calls itself “the original, affordable sunglasses company.” It was founded in 2005.²

It’s also worth noting that each pound of plastic that the company uses in production removes a pound of ocean-bound plastic from the environment. This is possible with help from the CleanHub organization, which facilitates partnerships with waste-management groups around the world.²

At least 2.2 billion people have vision impairment.⁵ These numbers are expected to more than double by 2050 due to diseases like diabetes, which can contribute to vision issues.⁴

5 Reasons Why Blind People Wear Sunglasses

Below are five of the most common reasons why blind people wear sunglasses. However,  these are not the only possible reasons.

1. Sunglasses Protect Eyes from Light

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can be damaging. For blind people, it’s even more dangerous. Blind people wear dark glasses to protect their eyes and decrease the risk of developing conditions like cataracts or macular degeneration.

Most people with severe vision impairment also have light sensitivity, known as photophobia, and sunglasses can help.

2. Sunglasses Shield Eyes From Foreign Objects

Completely blind people are at an increased risk of getting things in their eyes. 

Wearing sunglasses can help protect blind people from getting dust particles and debris in their eyes, especially outside.

3. Glasses Can Help Prevent Injuries

Glasses can help shield the eyes from objects like tree branches or cabinet corners. Visually impaired people may have trouble seeing these objects, if at all.

4. Some Blind People Prefer to Cover Their Eyes

Some people wear sunglasses to protect their eyes. But it’s not the only reason blind people wear them.

Some visually impaired people cover their eyes so others can’t see them. Others find it’s easier to communicate while wearing glasses, especially if they feel self-conscious about eye contact.

5. Wearing Glasses Can Help Communicate Blindness

While not all blind people wear glasses, it’s not uncommon to see a blind person wearing sunglasses. So, wearing dark glasses can indicate a person has legal blindness or visual impairment.

If a person who is entirely blind needs help, others may recognize they are blind if they wear glasses.

What Type of Sunglasses Do Blind People Typically Wear?

Most visually impaired people wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from harmful UV light. 

Many blind people wear non-prescription sunglasses. But people with other types of vision impairment may choose to wear prescription sunglasses that can help correct their vision.

How Many People Are Considered Blind?

About 12 million Americans aged 40 years old and over have vision impairment. This includes one million people who are considered legally blind. Eight million have uncorrected refractive errors, and another three million have vision impairment even after correction.^4,1

These numbers are expected to more than double by 2050. This is because of diseases like diabetes, which can contribute to vision issues.⁴

Summary

There are many reasons why blind people and those with vision impairment wear sunglasses. From protecting their eyes from bright lights to communicating their condition, sunglasses can help blind people in various ways.

Not all blind people wear sunglasses for the same reasons. Depending on the severity of their condition, some people may choose prescription sunglasses. Others may only wear non-prescription sunglasses. 

Bloodshot eyes in dogs may or may not be cause for concern. There are numerous reasons why your dog’s eyes are red. For example, some naturally have red in their eyes.⁴

In this article, we’ll cover the following topics regarding bloodshot eyes in dogs:

• Common causes and their symptoms
• Potential treatment options
• When to see a veterinarian 

1. Corneal Ulceration

Corneal ulcers happen if your dog gets a scratch on their eye or a foreign object stuck in it. As a result, the cornea can appear red.¹

Symptoms

• Squinting with one or both eyes
• Discharge from the tear glands in the inner corner of the eyes
• Scratching or rubbing at the eyes
• Excessive blinking

Treatment 

To treat a corneal ulcer, your vet might prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent infections from developing in your dog’s eye. 

2. Eye Trauma

Eye injuries are common in dogs, especially if they get a foreign body stuck in their eye while playing. For example, if your dog fights with another dog or animal, that leads to an eye scratch or injury, it might appear red. 

Symptoms

• Bleeding
• Discharge
• Watery eyes
• Bacterial infection from wounds
• Squinting
• Swelling
• Sensitivity to bright light

Treatment 

The best treatment for an eye injury depends on the type. Your dog will need a proper diagnosis from a veterinary ophthalmologist.

In severe cases of physical trauma, your dog might need surgical treatment or stitches. The vet may prescribe pain medications.   

3. Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) can occur in people and dogs. A viral or bacterial infection causes this condition and leads to your dog’s eyes reddening.^2,3,8

Symptoms

• Itchiness
• Swelling
• Watery discharge
• Excessive blinking or squinting

Treatment 

You can usually treat conjunctivitis with eye drops. They can also treat other symptoms of pink eye beyond eye redness. For example, they help lubricate your dog’s eyes and prevent pain and itchiness.

4. Environmental Irritants & Allergies

Certain environmental irritants can affect your dog’s eyes. These include dust or other allergens in the air.² They can also have a food allergy that can cause red eyes.

Symptoms

• Itchy eyes
• Scratching or rubbing at the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Dry eye
• Inflammation
• Swelling

Treatment 

If seasonal allergies are causing your dog to have bloodshot eyes, ointments or oral medications might help. In the case of seasonal allergies, bloodshot eyes and other symptoms typically subside on their own. Allergy testing, such as blood tests, can help determine or rule out specific food and pet care product allergies.

5. Infection

Redness is a common symptom if your dog’s eye has an infection. If left untreated, the condition and symptoms can worsen and become painful.

Symptoms

• Enlarged blood vessels
• Watery discharge
• Itchiness
• Pain

Treatment 

If your dog has an eye infection, the vet may prescribe an ointment or medication to kill the bacteria causing the infection.

6. Eyelid Problems

Eyelid problems can also cause red eyes in dogs. It can happen if the eyelids fold out (ectropion) or in (entropion). When they fold out, your dog’s eyes are left unprotected. When they fold in, the eyelashes can irritate the eye’s surface.

Symptoms

• Folded eyelids
• Itching
• Dry eye

Treatment 

Many long-haired and flat-faced breeds have trouble with their eyelids due to fur and skin obstructing their vision. Keeping your dog’s eyes healthy by maintaining proper pet care is important.^5,7

7. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a common condition that affects many older dogs. It can lead to red eyes and other symptoms.⁶ It occurs due to a fluid build-up in the eye, which causes pressure.

Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss. Because of this, it’s important to see a veterinarian immediately.

Symptoms

• Difficulty seeing
• Cloudy eyes
• Dry eyes
• Eye swelling
• Abnormal discharge
• Haziness in the eye
• Pain

Treatment 

Glaucoma in dogs can get worse with age. Oral or injected medications can help treat glaucoma. In some cases, your dog may need surgery.

8. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a health condition that can affect people and dogs. It happens when the eyes do not produce enough moisture and feel very dry, causing redness.²

Some breeds of dogs are more prone to dry eye syndrome than others. It’s typically caused by an injury or a weakened immune system, which can lead to infection or corneal ulcers.

Symptoms

• Dry eyes
• Difficulty seeing
• Eye redness
• Inflammation
• Mucus or eye gunk

Treatment 

If your dog suffers from dry eye syndrome, your vet might prescribe artificial tears to help induce tear production and lubricate their eyes. They may also prescribe antibiotic eye drops or immunosuppressant drugs, depending on the cause.

When to See a Veterinarian 

Typically, you can treat your dog’s red eyes with medications. However, you should talk to your veterinarian if your dog’s red appears out of nowhere or gets worse over time. Especially if your dog’s eyes don’t improve with treatment.

Other signs that you should call a veterinarian include:

• Noticing something new or odd in your dog’s eye
• Frequent eye scratching or rubbing
• Eye swelling
• Eye discharge or gunk
• Excessive squinting

How Do You Prevent Bloodshot Eyes on Your Dog?

There are various ways to prevent red eyes and keep your dog’s eyes as healthy as possible. Here are a few things you can do to prevent red eyes on your dog:

• Grooming and hair trimming around the eyes
• Cleaning eye discharge or gunk
• Keep an eye out for excessive eye rubbing or scratching
• Regular veterinary exams

Summary

The recovery timeline depends on why your dog’s eyes are red. The outlook is generally positive since most cases resolve independently or with eye drops.

However, if a more severe condition like glaucoma is the cause, your dog might require lifelong treatment. If you’re concerned, talk to your veterinarian so they can determine a proper treatment plan for your dog.

It’s painful to poke yourself in the eye with long nails, and bacteria can live under them. 

If you wear contact lenses and have long nails, it’s important to take extra precautions when removing your contacts from each eye.

Here are the steps to safely remove contact lenses:

1. Wash your hands.

First and foremost, it’s always important to wash your hands. Keeping your hands clean is critical when it comes to contact lens removal. You don’t want to put your fingers anywhere on your face if they’re dirty, especially in your eyes.^1,4

2. Dry your hands.

Make sure that you dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel. You don’t want to get any fuzz on your fingers before putting them in your eyes.

3. Open your eyes in a well-lit mirror.

Ensure that you have a clean mirror and a well-lit space. You need to see the contact lens in your eye. Use one hand to pull your eyelids open gently.

4. Pinch or roll the contact lens.

Using the flat part of your index finger and thumb (on the opposite hand), softly pinch the contact lens to pull it away from your eye. Try the rolling method if you have trouble with this method because you wear long nails.⁶

Tap the top of the contact lens with the tip of your index or pointer finger (not your nail) and slide it to the white of your eye. From there, you can roll it over your bottom eyelid.

If you still have trouble removing the contact lens, try using a saline solution to lubricate it.⁵

5. Store your contacts properly.

Once you’ve taken your contacts out, properly store them in contact lens solution and in a safe, enclosed container for contact lenses.⁶

Risks of Removing Contact Lenses With Long Nails

Removing contacts with long nails can be difficult.

Long acrylic nails and even long natural nails pose many risks to your eyes:

• Long nails can poke you in the eye
• Your nails could scratch your eyes
• Bacteria can build up beneath your nails
• With press-on nails, water, residue, and germs can build up underneath
• Long nails can spread infections like pinworms
• Long nails can make it difficult for you to reach your contacts
• Long nails can disrupt your view when removing your contacts

General Safety Guidelines for Removing Contacts

Whether or not you have long nails, there are some general safety guidelines that you should always follow when removing contacts from your eyes.

• Keep your hands clean.
• Store your contacts in a contact solution.
• Don’t sleep with your contacts in your eyes.
• Take your contacts out when you’re supposed to.
• Make sure to change your contacts when you’re supposed to (extended-wear contacts can be worn longer than dailies).²

What to Do If You Scratch Your Eye 

Wearing contact lenses means regularly putting your fingers in your eye to place and remove them. It’s easy to scratch your eyes if you have long fingernails and wear contact lenses.

If you scratch your eye while putting in or taking out contact lenses, there are some home remedies and treatments you can consider.³

• Use a wet, warm compress on your eyes to help soothe any pain or swelling.
• Rinse your eye with clean water or a saline solution.
• Blink to get rid of any debris stuck in your eye that might scratch you more.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your injured eye from harmful ultraviolet light.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes. You can worsen the pain if there’s anything stuck in your eye.
• Stay away from contact lenses while your eye heals. Wear eyeglasses instead.
• Don’t use over-the-counter eye drops, which may irritate a scratched eye.

Most corneal abrasions are minor. They typically heal on their own within just a few days. 

If you badly scratch your eye, call your eye doctor. Your eye doctor may treat your eye scratch with antibiotic eye drops or an ointment. They may also give you steroid eye drops to reduce any inflammation.

How to Put in Contacts With Long Nails

Putting in contact lenses with long nails requires many of the same steps as removing them:

1. Always make sure to wash your hands¹
2. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel
3. Place the contact on the tip of your finger
4. Gently hold your eye open with your opposite hand
5. Place the contact lens on your eye
6. Slowly blink or move your eyes back and forth to ensure your lens is in place

Summary

Taking out contacts with long nails can be difficult but not impossible. The steps above can help you safely remove your contacts without scratching your eyes.

If you scratch your eyes, carefully clean them and be gentle with them. Call your doctor if you have any serious eye pain from your contacts or a scratch. Rest assured that most corneal abrasions will quickly heal on their own.

When Were Polarized Sunglasses Invented?

Polarized sunglasses didn’t emerge until hundreds of years after eyeglasses were invented. It wasn’t until after Foster’s sunglasses were around for a while that science started to develop. Then, sunglasses with features like polarized lenses began to emerge.

Throughout the mid-to-late-1900s, sunglasses started being mass-produced with other features:

• Anti-reflective coatings. This prevents glare from elements like snow and water
• Anti-fog coatings. This stops glasses from fogging up in environments like humidity
• Scratch- and shatter-resistant materials. Certain materials are less prone to scratching or breaking

Who Invented Modern Sunglasses?

The first pair of eyeglasses were worn in the late 1200s in Pisa, Italy. The convex-shaped glass resembled small magnifying glasses. While many people credited their creation to a man named Salvino D’Armati in Italy in the 13th century, other names are notable for the invention of eyewear.³

Benjamin Franklin also gets a lot of credit for inventing eyeglasses. They were actually already around for hundreds of years by the 1700s. However, he did invent bifocals in the mid-1700s.³

English Franciscan Friar Roger Bacon can also lay some claim to the creation of sunglasses. He wrote about the scientific principles of corrective lenses back in 1266.⁶

However, the history of eyeglasses dates back even further. In the year 1000, a mathematician named Abu Ali al Hasan ibn al-Haytham (known in the West as Alhacen or Alhazen) wrote literature that led to him becoming known as the “Father of Modern Optics.”

It wasn’t until after eyeglasses that sunglasses came to life, too. Ayscough is known for inventing the first pair of sunglasses that resemble modern sunglasses. 

The History of Sunglasses

Here’s a breakdown of the history of sunglasses.

Early Origins of Sunglasses

The history of sunglasses can be attributed to the Inuits and ancient Chinese. Inuits used walrus ivory to make snow goggles with narrow slits. Not long after, the Chinese made sunglasses out of smoky quartz to help dim the light.^1,5

However, similar sunglasses worn today can be traced back to the 18th century. This was when English optician James Ayscough created glasses with tinted lenses. They are lenses with pigmented dye in them to give them color.

The original purpose of sunglasses was multifaceted. While the Inuits wore sunglasses to shield their eyes from the light reflected off the snow and ice, the Chinese used sunglasses for another reason. They wanted to conceal their facial expressions in high-profile situations. 

Evolution of Sunglasses in Europe

In the 18th century, Italians in Venice wore green-tinted glasses, known as Goldoni glasses, after the playwright Carlo Goldoni. They wore these dark green lenses to protect their eyes from the sun’s glare off Venetian canals.¹

In the 19th century, during the syphilis outbreak in Europe, yellow- and brown-tinted sunglasses started being prescribed to people infected by the disease. Their eyes were light-sensitive, and doctors thought tinted lenses could help.

Modern Sunglasses and Their Popularity

It wasn’t until 1929 that sunglasses were made for mass production, thanks to the advent of new production technology. 

The founder of Foster Grant, Sam Foster, created the first affordable sunglasses for the public. Foster sold his sunglasses on the Atlantic City Boardwalk.²

Foster Grant sunglasses developed over the years to become more protective, and sunglasses grew in popularity in movies throughout the mid- to late-1900s. Ray-Ban sunglasses also became popular around this time.

Over the years, the sunglasses market has blown up with all kinds of protective eyewear. Sunglasses have become a popular fashion accessory. 

Some ways modern sunglasses are customizable include:

• Colored lenses. Lenses that have pigmented lenses
• Prescription shades. Sunglasses that also correct vision
• Various lens shapes. Different shapes and styles of lenses (like teardrop or cat-eye)
• Interchangeable lenses. Lenses that you can swap out for others

Consumers are spoiled for choice today of sunglasses to meet their personal style and needs, whether they wear sunglasses for fashion, UV protection, or sports.

Summary

Sunglasses have been around for centuries, and eyeglasses have been around for even longer.

Sunglasses weren’t always used for the same reasons that we use them today. And they certainly have changed looks over the years.

Today, sunglasses are a wardrobe staple with both fashion and purpose in mind.

These extra eyelashes tend to be thinner than regular lashes. They are also generally shorter and softer than your other eyelashes.⁵

If you have two rows of eyelashes, you may notice that some grow in different directions. If they grow inward, this is a condition called trichiasis. Trichiasis can cause eye irritation, pain, and infections, which can cause vision issues if left untreated.⁵

A double row of eyelashes can be uncomfortable, but they’re not always a cause for concern.

Here are some of the causes and risks of distichiasis, as well as some treatments and preventative measures to consider.

Signs and Symptoms of Double Eyelashes

The most obvious sign of double eyelashes is extra hair follicles with lashes above or below your regular lash line.

The symptoms of double eyelashes may vary depending on how many extra eyelashes you have, the texture of your lash hair, and the direction in which your lashes grow.

Here are some of the most common symptoms of distichiasis:⁵

If these symptoms go without treatment for too long, they can lead to more serious damage. Vision impairment is rare but possible.

Causes and Risk Factors for Distichiasis

Distichiasis may be congenital (you are born with it), or it can occur later in life. There are several possible causes of and risk factors for distichiasis.

Beyond congenital distichiasis, here are some of the most popular reasons for double lashes later in life.

1. Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common eye condition that can cause swelling of the eyelids. It can also affect the lash follicles on your lids, which may affect your eyelashes.¹

2. Certain Autoimmune Diseases

Some autoimmune diseases can be a risk factor for double lashes, like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This serious disease causes the skin to peel during allergic reactions. It can also affect your lash growth.⁷

Ocular cicatricial pemphigoid is another autoimmune disorder. It’s a type of conjunctivitis that can cause scarring and affect the hair follicles along your lash line.⁶

3. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

The Meibomian glands lubricate your eyes. Dysfunction of these glands can cause several symptoms, from dry eye to distichiasis.³

4. Ocular Rosacea

Ocular rosacea is a common condition (especially for people with skin rosacea) that can cause eye inflammation and irritation. It can also affect your eyelashes.²

5. Lymphedema Distichiasis Syndrome

Lymphedema distichiasis syndrome causes serious swelling and puffiness of the limbs. It mostly affects the legs and feet. People with this syndrome also tend to grow an extra set of eyelashes.⁴

How Is Distichiasis Diagnosed?

Only your doctor can diagnose you with distichiasis. An eye doctor can perform an eye exam using a slit-lamp test to examine your eyes under a microscope closely. This will allow them to see any extra hair follicles and double hairs that may be very light.

Treatment for Double Eyelashes

Treatment for distichiasis depends on your case, but there are many options. Here are some of the ways to treat double eyelashes.⁵

• Epilation. This is a method of plucking out the lashes that grow above or below your regular lash line. However, eyelashes tend to grow back after about 3 months, so this treatment is not permanent.
• Electrolysis. This treatment destroys the hair follicles from which your extra lashes grow, preventing them from regrowing.
• Cryoablation. A very cold gas freezes abnormal cells—the extreme cold can destroy hair follicles that cause extra lash growth.
• Bandage contact lens. This is a treatment for the eyes that protects the cornea from irritable eyelashes and can help heal any damage caused by extra lashes.
• Lid splitting surgery. Surgery may be an option for severe cases. It involves making an incision near your lash line to remove them.

To treat any infections caused by distichiasis, an eye care doctor may also prescribe antibiotic eye drops.

Home Remedies for Double Eyelashes

Fortunately, there are some steps you can take at home to relieve any irritation or pain you may feel from double eyelashes.

Here are some at-home remedies for treating your eyes and the surrounding skin.

• Use warm compresses on your eyes.
• Flush irritated eyes with over-the-counter eye drops (or eye drops prescribed by your doctor).
• Use a lubricating eye ointment on your eyes to alleviate irritation from extra lashes.

When Should You See a Doctor? 

Professional treatment may be necessary if your double lashes cause corneal abrasion or affect your vision. Talk to your eye doctor about the treatment options available to you. 

While surgery may not be necessary, plenty of treatments can offer temporary or even permanent relief.

Can You Prevent Distichiasis?

You cannot prevent some causes of distichiasis, such as naturally occurring distichiasis. Some people are just born with two sets of eyelashes or extra eyelashes along their eyelids.

You can prevent some causes of distichiasis. For example, you can prevent distichiasis caused by bacterial infections by keeping your hands and eyes clean. 

Outlook

Leaving distichiasis untreated may be fine, but if it causes you issues, it may lead to even more eye problems.

The outlook is positive for distichiasis. There are plenty of effective treatment options from which to choose.

Summary

Distichiasis is not necessarily a serious condition, but it can cause discomfort. Over time, that discomfort can cause vision impairment if left untreated.

Depending on the severity of your abnormal eyelashes, there are many treatment options to explore. You can also practice at-home remedies for temporary treatment to relieve some of your symptoms and prevent further issues like infections.

If you are experiencing eye pain when you move your eyes, and it’s not going away, talk to your eye doctor. An eye care professional can help you determine the cause of your eye pain and find a treatment that works.

Here are potential reasons for your eye pain and some treatments to consider.

8 Potential Reasons Why Your Eyes Hurt When You Move Them

The following are reasons why you might be experiencing eye pain:

1. Overactive Thyroid

An overactive thyroid is sometimes also referred to as a hyperactive thyroid. It affects the thyroid gland in your neck, which produces the hormone thyroxine. If this gland produces an excess of thyroxine, it can cause a metabolic imbalance.⁶

Hyperthyroidism can also cause the eyes to swell and protrude, which can be accompanied by pain.⁶

Other Symptoms

• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fast heartbeat
• Exhaustion
• Increased hunger
• Sweating
• Changes to menstrual cycle
• Changes to bowel habits
• Sleep disturbances
• Thinning skin
• Brittle hair

2. Orbital Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis refers to an infection of the orbit, which is the bone cavity that holds your eyeball. This infection can irritate your eyes, eyelids, and even your eyebrows and cheeks. Pain and swelling are likely.⁷

If left untreated, orbital cellulitis can lead to severe vision impairment and even blindness.⁷

Other Symptoms

• Proptosis (bulging of the eyes)
• Swelling
• Redness
• Pain and swelling of the eyelids, eyebrows, and cheeks

3. Something Stuck in Your Eye

If you have something stuck in your eye, like dust, dirt, or debris, it can cause irritation, redness, swelling, and pain. Something that’s lodged in your eye can also scratch your eye and cause an infection, which leads to pain and other issues.⁵

Other Symptoms

• Redness
• Swelling
• Difficulty keeping the eye open
• Trouble seeing clearly

4. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

MS is a serious disease affecting the central nervous system (CNS). It happens when the body’s immune system attacks the nerves (including the optic nerve), causing sclerosis, which is irreversible scarring.⁸

This scarring interferes with the brain’s signals to the body, which can affect the eyes, among other parts of the body.⁸ 

Optic neuritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the optic nerves, is a prevalent symptom of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Approximately 70% of MS patients experience optic neuritis at some stage in their lives.

Other Symptoms

• Muscle aches and pains
• Partial paralysis
• Cognitive impairment
• Blindness
• Blurred vision

5. Allergies

Allergies can occur due to specific allergens like dust or pet dander, or they can occur seasonally. Either way, allergies can cause redness, swelling, and itchiness of the eyes. All of this can cause pain in the eyes, as well.¹

Other Symptoms

• Sensitivity to light
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• Fever
• Itchy eyes
• Red eyes
• Pink eye

6. Corneal Abrasion

A corneal abrasion is a wound to the cornea. The cornea is the transparent tissue that coats the front of your eye. Scratching the cornea can cause mild or serious eye pain.⁴

Getting something stuck in your eye or improper use of contacts can cause corneal abrasions.⁴

Other Symptoms

• Eye strain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Irritation
• Sensitivity to light
• Headaches
• Impaired vision
• Pink eye
• Eye injury

7. Common Cold

The common cold is a contagious viral infection. It’s considered the “common” cold because it is indeed very common. Still, it can cause a whole bunch of unpleasant symptoms, including eye pain.³

Other Symptoms

• Coughing
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Sneezing
• Red and irritated eyes
• Headache
• Sinus infection
• Pink eye

8. Anterior Uveitis

Anterior uveitis refers to inflammation of the iris, the colored part of the eye. It also affects the ciliary body, which are the muscles and connective tissues behind the surface of the eye.²

Other Symptoms²

• Red eyes
• Soreness
• Inflammation
• Sensitivity to light
• Small pupil
• Irregularly shaped pupil
• Impaired vision
• Vision loss

When to See Your Doctor

If you are experiencing eye pain that has not subsided in the last few days, consult your doctor. If your eye pain worsens, you should also talk to your doctor.

While eye pain may not be anything serious, it can be a symptom of a bigger issue. Even if it’s just the common cold causing your eye pain, getting treatment right away can help you feel better faster.

How is Eye Pain Diagnosed? 

Only an eye care doctor can diagnose your eye pain. 

Your doctor may ask you some simple questions:

• What does the pain feel like?
• Does it feel like you have something stuck in your eye?
• Do your eyes feel sensitive to light?
• Do your eyelids feel crusty or sticky at times?
• Have you noticed any changes to your vision?

From there, your eye doctor will run a series of tests to determine the cause of your eye pain and treat you accordingly.

Treatment for Eye Pain 

Treatment for eye pain depends entirely on the root cause of your eye pain.

If you have a cold, you will need to treat the cold. Over-the-counter anti-allergens may help relieve some eye pain.

If you’re struggling with something stuck in your eye, you need to remove the object causing the pain. An eye care solution can flush out dirt particles and help dislodge any objects that may be stuck in your eye. 

A bigger health issue, like an overactive thyroid, will need medication. Other health conditions, like MS, may even involve physical therapy. 

Summary

If you’re feeling eye pain when you move your eyes, rest assured that the pain may not be a sign of something bigger. You might only be dealing with a common cold or allergies. However, eye pain that persists and is accompanied by other serious symptoms may be cause for concern.

Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing pain behind your eyes that’s not going away or is worsening. If necessary, your doctor will be able to prescribe an effective treatment for your condition.

Laser cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure performed by an ophthalmologist. It takes about an hour or less. While the procedure is considered safe and low-risk, driving right after is unsafe.^1,3

While most people are able to drive within a day or two after surgery, this time frame varies.

You should ask a friend or family member to accompany you to the eye doctor during cataract surgery, or plan to have someone pick you up afterward. 

Cataract Surgery Recovery and Aftercare 

Cataract surgery is a safe and easy surgery. It doesn’t take more than an hour, and you can head home right after. 

Still, there are some steps you should take once you get home to ensure a speedy recovery:

• Don’t rub your eyes.
• Avoid squeezing your eyelids shut.
• Wear a protective eye shield after surgery to prevent self-injury while you’re asleep.
• Your doctor may prescribe eye drops or antibiotics to alleviate post-surgery symptoms and prevent infections.

You may also pay a visit to your doctor about 24 to 48 hours after your surgery and as needed after that to monitor your recovery. A month after, you will need an appointment to get your new prescription if you wear glasses or contacts.²

Why Should You Wait to Drive After Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery removes cloudy and dysfunctional eye lenses and replaces them with artificial clear lenses, called intraocular lenses (IOL). The goal is to improve your vision, but you may experience discomfort and vision issues immediately after the procedure.

It is very common to have blurry vision for days or weeks after surgery. You should not wear contact lenses right after surgery.

Here are some more common symptoms following surgery:³

• Light sensitivity
• Difference in depth perception
• Seeing glares or halos around lights
• Feeling like something is stuck in your eye
• Scratchy eyes
• Swelling around the eyes
• Drooping eyelids
• Mild pain

Because of these symptoms, driving after cataract surgery can be dangerous. Most people can resume driving within a day after surgery, but some people may need to wait a little longer.

While most people heal within a few days of cataract surgery, the recovery time can differ for everyone. For some people, it can take up to a week or two to feel normal and achieve visual clarity.

Cataract surgery has a 99% success rate.⁴

When to Call Your Eye Doctor

If you experience any of the following extreme symptoms after cataract surgery, contact your doctor immediately:

• Extreme eye pain
• Decreased vision
• Loss of vision
• Severe red eyes
• Eye discharge
• Bleeding eyes

Summary

Cataract surgery is common and quick, but driving after cataract surgery is not safe. You may be able to drive the next day, but the recovery time is different for everyone.

Make sure you have someone to drive you home after surgery and follow your doctor’s safety precautions closely. Also, take any prescribed medications as directed.

If you notice any extreme symptoms, contact your doctor.

Watching the sunrise and sunset can be very meditative. For generations, sun gazing has been considered a peaceful practice that boosts mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

However, there are no proven health benefits to sun gazing. Medical professionals consider staring directly into the sun an unsafe practice. Looking directly at the sun, especially for prolonged periods, can damage your eyes.

• Wear sunglasses. Protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. 
• Don’t look directly at the sun. Place your attention elsewhere while gazing.

Gazing has known health benefits. You can do it in beautiful, sunny settings without hurting your eyes.

What Is Sun Gazing? 

Sun gazing is a meditative practice. It refers to looking at the sun during off-peak times, such as the sunrise and the sunset.³ 

There are many physical and mental health benefits to gazing. But gazing into the sun directly can damage your eyes.

You have to be careful while staring at the sun. There are considerations you should keep in mind.

Claimed Benefits of Sun Gazing

Many people claim sun gazing has benefits. But science has yet to prove it. Some of the potentially true sun gazing benefits include:³

• Increased levels of serotonin and melatonin 
• Boosted natural energy
• Enhanced immune system
• Improved physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health
• Deeper connectivity with the self
• Reduced stress

More scientific research needs to be done to determine whether or not these claims are true. 

The only concrete research indicates that spending time sun gazing can take a toll on your eye health. This is why medical experts advise against it.

What Are the Risks of Sun Gazing? 

Staring directly into the sun is not safe. There are many risks. You can burn your eyes. A sunburned cornea is known as photokeratitis. A burned retina is called solar retinopathy.^{7, 10}

Heavy sun exposure is also linked to eye cancer.⁸ Too much sun exposure can also cause cataracts, speed up macular degeneration, and cause growths over the white part of your eye (the sclera). These growths are known as pingueculas and pterygiums.

Health Benefits of Safe Sun Exposure

It’s no secret that safe sun exposure has ample health benefits. The sun provides nutrients that are beneficial to your physical and mental health.

• The sun produces vitamin D. Vitamin D can help the body absorb calcium. It is also known to help keep infections at bay and reduce inflammation.¹¹
• The sun regulates the body’s natural sleep cycle or circadian clock. When you see sunlight, your brain knows it’s time to wake up. When the sun goes down, your brain signals to your body that it’s time to sleep.⁴
• Healthy sun exposure may reduce refractive errors in children. Some research has shown that children’s exposure to sunlight and the outdoors may reduce myopia (nearsightedness).⁶

How to Practice Safe Sun Exposure

While there are certainly benefits to being in the sun, it can cause damage to more than just your eyes.

The sun can cause sunburn from too much UV radiation. Too much sun exposure to your skin is a leading cause of skin cancer.

Always wear protective sunscreen and sunglasses. Reapply sunscreen every few hours or after you swim. Wearing a hat can help protect your scalp, face, and eyes. Wearing UV-protective clothing and sitting under an umbrella can also help.  

Alternative Mindfulness Practices 

There are plenty of other mindfulness practices you can try that are safer than practicing sun gazing. 

For example, meditation has many spiritual, physical, and mental health benefits. It is known to increase self-awareness and decrease stress. It can also lower your resting heart rate and blood pressure. All of this helps improve your sleep, which has a cyclical effect.²

You can try different types of meditation practices, including apps. Headspace, Calm, and Aaptiv are popular apps with guided meditations.

Other alternative mindfulness practices include:

• Practicing breathwork. Evidence suggests that taking deep breaths and holding them can reduce stress.²
• Journaling. This is linked to reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and improved mood. It’s also correlated with greater well-being.^{1, 9}
• Getting quality sleep. Sleeping the recommended 7 or more hours per night is important for your physical and mental health.⁵

If you’re going to practice sun gazing, follow safety precautions to gain positive energy without hurting your eyes.

How to Sun Gaze 

To be clear, medical experts do not recommend sun gazing. But spiritual health gurus recommend these tips if you want to practice sun gazing:

• Go sun gazing during off-peak hours. The UV index is much lower during sunrise and sunset.
• Sun gaze outside. Sun gazing through a window does not provide the same calming effect.
• Be barefoot. Connecting to the earth with bare feet is another spiritual practice that can enhance the sun-gazing experience.
• Relax, take conscious breaths, and listen to your body. If you feel the need to blink, do it.
• Take breaks. If you’re a beginner, take periodic breaks by closing your eyes.

Because practicing sun gazing can damage your eyes, follow safety precautions to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays:

• Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays
• Do not stare directly into the sun
• Do not stare into the sun for prolonged periods