Why Sunglasses Are a Skin Care Essential

Sunglasses Are Not Just an Accessory

The skin around the eyes is some of the thinnest and most delicate on the body, which makes it especially vulnerable to sun damage. UV exposure in this area contributes to:

• Fine lines and crow’s feet from years of squinting in bright light
• Sunspots and uneven pigmentation on the eyelids and under-eye area
• A higher risk of skin cancer on the eyelids, which accounts for a meaningful share of skin cancers on the face
• Cataracts and other long-term eye damage from cumulative UV exposure

A good pair of sunglasses helps reduce much of this risk in one simple step, and unlike sunscreen, there is no reapplying involved.

What to Look for in Sunglasses

Not every pair of dark lenses provides adequate protection. A few things are worth checking before buying:

• 100% UV400 protection: This blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Darker lenses without this rating do not necessarily provide better protection and may allow more unfiltered UV light to enter because the pupils dilate behind the lenses.
• Polarized lenses: These reduce glare from water, pavement, and other reflective surfaces, which can also reduce the squinting that contributes to fine lines over time.
• Larger lens coverage: More surface area means more protected skin around the eyes.
• A snug, no-slip fit: This is especially important for anyone who is active outdoors, since the glasses should stay in place instead of sliding down.

Goodr Picks by Frame Style

Goodr checks all of the boxes above. Every pair comes with polarized, UV400 lenses while remaining affordable and fun. Here is how to choose a frame style:

• Goodr OG: The classic everyday frame. It is a great all-around option for running, driving, or daily wear, with a lightweight, no-bounce fit.
• Goodr BFG, or Big Frame G: Features wider frames, longer arms, and larger lenses designed for bigger heads and greater coverage. The larger lens size also means more protected skin around the eyes.
• Goodr Circle G: A round frame with a slightly narrower fit, making it a good option for smaller faces or anyone who prefers a retro shape.
• Goodr Mach G: An aviator-style frame for a dressier look that still holds up during activity, with the same no-slip, polarized lenses as the rest of the lineup.

Quick Tips

• Sunglasses protect the skin, but they do not replace sunscreen on the surrounding areas. The temples, cheekbones, and under-eye area still need SPF.
• Wraparound styles and larger lenses offer more coverage than smaller, trend-focused frames, which matters most during long days outside.
• Kids need UV protection too. Smaller, properly fitted sunglasses are just as important for developing eyes.

Updated July 2026

Dr. Jane Yoo Board-Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon

Jane Yoo, MD, MPP, is a Korean American board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon based in Midtown Manhattan. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the founder of Jane Yoo MD, PLLC and the Clinical Research Center of New York. Dr. Yoo holds an undergraduate degree from MIT and a Masters of Public Policy from Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. She completed her Mohs micrographic surgery fellowship at Yale. Her clinical and research focus spans aesthetic clinical trials including injectables and laser technology, skincare formulation and sunscreen science, K-Beauty and skin of color, ultrasound guided filler dissolution, artificial intelligence and beauty tech. Dr. Yoo's research is indexed under ORCID 0000-0002-7112-8963.

See Full Bio

Mohs Surgery Skin Cancer K-Beauty Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Dermal Fillers Filler Dissolution Ultrasound AI Sunscreen Lasers Hyaluronidase Energy Based Devices Biostimulators