Research-backed
Image: MomJunction Design Team
Photophobia (also called light sensitivity) is a neurological disease that can cause discomfort and throbbing when one looks at light. The best sunglasses for light sensitive eyes can be a blessing in disguise for those who suffer from this condition. Sunglasses are specially designed to filter unwanted wavelengths from outdoor and indoor lights.
Dana Spearin, an optometric physician, mother of two, and content developer, says, “Many regular sunglasses do not have a quality UV coating on them. Studies have shown that the coating erodes pretty quickly. I highly recommend you choose a new pair every three months so that you know the coating still works. Wearing sunglasses that don’t offer UV protection can do more harm than good to your eyes.”
To help you choose the right sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes, we have compiled a list of the best-selling and time-tested options that you can consider.
Top Picks
10 Best Sunglasses For Light Sensitive Eyes
1. Best Retro-Style:Joopin Polarized Sunglasses For Women
The retro-style sun-reactive glasses from Joopin help lower light sensitivity. These tried-and-tested protective glasses for sensitive eyes reduce the reflection from the shiny objects outside. They offer accurate color perception due to their neutral color coating. The 61mm UV4000 polarized lenses offer UVA and UVB radiation blockage of almost 99% to 100%. The sun-shielding glasses shield the eyes against all long-term UV damage, promoting eye health. This polarized eyewear for sensitive eyes is made of high-quality materials and is suitable for relaxing and strengthening the eyes.
Pros
- Has an anti-glare feature
- Available in various colors
- Resilient
- Comes with one-piece nose pads
Cons
- May be a little heavy for some
- May not be scratch-resistant
"These oversized sunglasses provide substantial sun coverage and suit well for all occasions. They seem durable, but I recently noticed slight peeling at the edges. However, their attractive design made them my favorite for casual wear."
2. Best With UV Protection:Colossein Sunglasses With UVA/UVB Protection
Image: Colossein 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 11,151 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
Featuring UV400 lenses, these anti-glare glasses for sensitive eyes are mirror-coated. The polycarbonate frame and temples look modern and trendy with unbreakable metal hinges. These durable and sun-sensitive glasses safeguard the eyes and keep the migraines and headaches caused by light sensitivity at bay, making them the perfect gear for outdoor activities. It is a refined piece of eyewear with unmatchable craftsmanship. Check out a tester’s experience in this review video for a detailed understanding of these light-blocking glasses.
Pros
- Protects eyes from UVA and UVB rays
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight
Cons
- Mirrored surface may be susceptible to scratches
- Lenses may not be polarized
"I've been using these sunglasses for a while and love their style. They are durable—enduring rough usage pretty well. While they lack polarization, they make a great pick, offering decent light reduction and comfort."
Quick tip3. Best Anti-Glare:Gear District Polarized Sport Sunglasses
The polarized sunglasses for sensitive eyes by Gear District, a trusted brand, offer a UV400 shield that obstructs the three UV radiations — UVA, UVB, and UVC. These anti-glare shades for sensitive eyes are made from a heavy-duty, soft-silicone frame, giving a sporty look. The anti-fog coating inhibits fogging in cold ambiance.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Suitable for all weather conditions
- Ideal for outdoor activities and sports
- Tinted glasses for sensitive eyes
Cons
- Color of the lenses may fade over time
- May seem tight for some
"These sunglasses fit snugly, are lightweight, and the added accessories are a nice touch. While there are some minor design quirks, they block sunlight glare impressively, making them a staple for my cycling adventures."
Joopin Polarized Sunglasses For Women Best Retro-Style | Colossein Sunglasses With UVA/UVB Protection Best With UV Protection | Gear District Polarized Sport Sunglasses Best Anti-Glare | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 14,730 | 11,151 | 3,514 |
| Price | $11.99 | $12.99 | $18.85 |
4. Best Impact-Resistant:Hornz Polarized Sunglasses For Women
Image: Hornz The 1.1mm TAC polarized, FDA impact-resistant lenses offer clear vision while experiencing the amiable sunlight. Their hypoallergenic polycarbonate frame provides a secured fitting. There is no possibility of the frame falling off while driving or enjoying a ride under the sun. The protective eyewear for light sensitivity offers total UV400 protection and is free from lead, phthalates, and nickel. These light-blocking shades have 61mm wide lenses with anti-reflective properties.
Pros
- Scratch-resistant
- Helps block blue light
- Includes a microfiber cleaning pouch
- Lightweight
Cons
- Rhinestones may fall off after long-term use
- May feel a little tight around the temples for some
"This pair's effective sun-blocking has made driving a lot easier for me and the snug and stylish fit is a big plus. Their rainbow effect on certain surfaces is a bit annoying, but they make a functional choice to get a clear view. Plus, I love the bling detailing—minimal yet fashionable!"
5. Best Wide Lens:Shadyveu Round Sunglasses
Image: Shadyveu Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 930 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
The Shadyveu sunglasses have a 61mm wide black lens that offer great privacy, prohibiting others from glancing into your eyes. The light-adaptive glasses protect your sensitive eyes, averting the chances of triggering a migraine. These sun-shielding eyeglasses boast quality craftsmanship and have lenses with UVA and UVB safety and the 80’s style polycarbonate frames of high durability. The metal hinges allow easy and convenient fitting, giving a classic retro appearance.
Pros
- Composite lens
- Impact-resistant
- Provides maximum protection from bright light
- High-quality product
Cons
- May affect visibility in cloudy weather
- Non-polarized
"Since I started using this pair, I have had significant relief from migraines. I am pretty happy with the material and design. They can be a bit too dark in low-light conditions, so I keep a less intense pair as a backup. But overall, it is a great pick for its commendable sun protection."
Quick tip6. Best Wind-Resistant:Grinderpunch Mens Black Super Dark Sunglasses
The super black photochromic glasses by Grinderpunch are 50% darker than the standard sunglasses. They offer 100% protection from UV rays and are super absorbent. The 62mm wide lenses are mounted into a plastic frame that promises a comfortable fit. These glare-reducing eyewear are wind-resistant and suitable for outings and hiking.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Well-fitted
- Dark lenses prohibit others from seeing your eyes
Cons
- Non-polarized lenses
- Screws may be a little loose at times
"I’ve found these sunglasses effective for my light-sensitive eyes, striking a fine balance between comfort and darkness. Their lack of lower coverage is a bit disappointing, but I like their fit and style. Overall, they make a practical choice to keep glare at bay."
7. Best Lightweight:Lvioe Square Cat Eye Sunglasses For Women
The latest cat-eye light-sensitive glasses by Lvioe feature a durable and super lightweight frame with nose pads to avert any pain. These square sunglasses have UV400 lenses that offer extra protection from UVA and UVB radiation. The mirror lenses give you a clear vision and ensure flexible fitting, making them suitable for outdoor activities. Without scattering your vision and the light, these sun-reactive eyeglasses with quality craftsmanship can make your experience superior, relieving you of any photophobic symptoms.
Pros
- Anti-reflective mirror lenses
- Available in many colors
- Lenses have a strengthening protective film
- Suitable for all face types
Cons
- May get scratches
- May cause peripheral reflection
"This one stands out for its practicality—effectively blocking sun rays and bright light. These versatile glasses go well with sporty and casual outfits. In terms of performance and style, I found them to be a reliable choice."
8. Best Fitting:SunnyPro Fitover Sunglasses
Shaped for a cozy fit, the Sunny Pro light-responsive eyewear safeguards your sensitive eyes from every angle. The fully dark glasses won’t deform or twist your vision. These dynamic sunglasses offer UV400 protection, enhancing your peripheral vision and fortifying your eyes. The lenses are strengthened with spring hinges that fit into a polycarbonate frame.
Pros
- Fits over prescription lenses
- Mirrored
- Polarized lenses
- Has a side window design
Cons
- Runs a little large
- Arms may be a little fragile
"I got these sunglasses after my eye surgery and found their performance quite impressive. Even though they are not that effective against sunlight, they offer decent protection against sudden glares and fit perfectly over my prescription glasses."
9. Best Dark-Tinted:Rapid Eyewear Sunglasses For Sensitive Eyes
Image: Rapid Eyewear The Rapid dark sunglasses feature 100% UV protection and category four-smoked lenses, being the darkest tint lenses. Mounted on the impact-resistant TR90 frame, these light-sensitive shades are made of polycarbonate lenses with UV-shield coating. These UV-sensitive eye protection shades are suitable for climbing and hiking. The sunglasses obstruct light, keeping migraine headaches and eyestrain away.
Pros
- Protects from blue light
- Ideal for sensitive and dry eyes
- Has sprung sidearms
- Ideal for photophobia
- Hand-sprayed in matte black
Cons
- Frames might be thicker than expected
- Nose piece may not be comfortable after a while
"I like that these sunglasses are pretty dark, and the wrap-around style caters to my light sensitivity. While the fit took me a while to get used to, their effectiveness in harsh lighting makes them worth it."
10. Best Comfortable:MaxiAids Solar Shields
Image: Maxiaids The Maxiaids solar shields offer complete protection from harsh UV rays. These UV-sensitive glasses provide extra protection to post-cataract patients and contact lens wearers. The glare-reducing glasses fit conveniently and erase any discomfort on the nose. These blue light-blocking shades also help prevent sensitivity to light or eyestrain caused by fluorescent lights.This eyewear for sensitive eyes is made to wrap the eye from all sides, impeding any light from entering.
Pros
- Polycarbonate lenses
- Fits over prescription glasses
- Lightweight
- Available in different colors
Cons
- May get scratched
- Color may differ a little
"This pair has become a staple for my trap shooting and fishing outings and works well for casual use as well. It provides relief from glare, which has been a great help. I am quite happy with its functionality and aesthetic."
How To Choose The Right Sunglasses For Light Sensitive Eyes?
Here are some factors to consider while buying sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes.
- Lenses: Consider polarized lenses with anti-glare properties and have an anti-reflective coating on the back to inhibit the light from reflecting on the lenses. If the lenses are mirror-coated, then they will control the light penetrating the lenses, enhancing comfort.
- UV protection: Sunglasses should provide 100% blockage against all harmful UV radiations. This quality will avert any damage from dangerous UV rays on photophobic eyes. It will provide utmost safety and optimum fortification.
- Frame: The frame can be of metal or polycarbonate. It should be durable, long-lasting, and sturdy. You can also do a fit assessment to ensure comfort while wearing the shades for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why have my eyes become so sensitive to light?
There are various reasons why your eyes can become sensitive to light. For example, migraines, dry eyes, excessive eye-rubbing, and various types of eye infections and corneal conditions.
2. What color tint is best for light sensitivity?
It is believed that blue, purple, or brown-tinted glasses are ideal for light sensitivity. FL-41 lenses are perfect for those with migraine and photophobia.
3. Which is better: UV or polarized sunglasses?
Both types of glasses have their benefits. UV-protected sunglasses keep your eyes safe from harmful rays, while polarized sunglasses have anti-glare properties and increase visual clarity. Polarized glasses are best for people who do recreational activities on the water or construction workers who handle concrete in the hot summer sun. So, sunglasses with both these properties should be an ideal fit for the outdoors.
4. Are polarized sunglasses good for driving?
Due to their anti-glare property, polarized sunglasses are an ideal fit to reduce glare from reflective surfaces while driving.
5. What’s the best way to clean sunglasses?
The best way to clean glasses is to use an approved glasses cleaner and a clean cotton or microfiber cloth. Do not wipe your glasses with any material other than cotton as it will scratch your lenses.
Why Trust MomJunction?
A sudden flash of light could cause discomfort for people who have light-sensitive eyes. An appropriate pair of sunglasses could be of great help in such scenarios. We have scoured several best-selling products and buyer reviews before compiling this list of the best sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes. These sunglasses are high-quality, effective, durable, and available in various designs. Moreover, the article also has a buying guide highlighting the different factors you should consider before making a selection.
The Bottom Line
If you are photophobic, investing in a pair of the best sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes may come in handy and protect your eyes from the bright sunlight and harsh UV rays. Always opt for the one with the highest UV protection rate and does not contain lead, nickel, or phthalate. Apart from blocking out the UV rays, you might also want glasses that are stylish, such as the Joopin Polarized Sunglasses For Women, which have a flattering retro look. If you are a sports enthusiast, try the Gear District Polarized Sport Sunglasses, which have a lightweight frame that sits comfortably even during strenuous physical activities. The products listed above may help you define your style statement while protecting your eyes.
Infographic: Buying Guide For Sunglasses For Light-Sensitive Eyes
Viewing things in sunlight or bright lights might be painful if your eyes are sensitive to light. The right sunglasses can help you avoid such an unpleasant experience. So, check out the infographic below to learn more about the features to look for when choosing sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV light
https://www.nei.nih.gov/about/news-and-events/news/protecting-your-eyes-suns-uv-light
Recommended Articles
