Did You Know Your Sunglasses Can Expire?

Know When Lenses Lose UV Protection

When it comes to protecting your eyes, not all sunglasses are created equal and not all protection lasts forever. At PeakVision, we design high-performance sunglasses engineered to deliver superior clarity and 100% UV protection, but even the best lenses can wear down over time. Knowing when your sunglasses need replacing is essential to keeping your eyes healthy.

Do Sunglasses Really Expire?

Yes, they can. While sunglasses don’t have a printed expiration date, their UV-protective coatings degrade over time due to:

• Sunlight exposure: UV-blocking films break down after years of use.
• Scratches and wear: Damage to lenses can reduce UV protection.
• Heat and chemical exposure: Leaving sunglasses in a hot car or cleaning them with harsh chemicals accelerates coating breakdown.

Without proper UV protection, your eyes are vulnerable to long-term damage, including photokeratitis, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

How to Test UV Protection at Home

If you’re unsure whether your sunglasses still provide effective UV blocking, you can try this simple DIY test using a UV flashlight and a U.S. dollar bill:

Step 1: Grab a UV light and a $1 bill

Under UV light, U.S. currency has security strips and patterns that glow.

Step 2: Shine the UV light on the dollar bill without sunglasses

You should clearly see the glowing security features.

Step 3: Hold your sunglasses between the UV light and the bill

-If the glow disappears or dims significantly, your lenses are still blocking most UV rays effectively.
-If the glow looks the same as without sunglasses, your lenses may no longer provide proper UV protection and should be replaced.

Tip: While this test gives a quick visual check, it isn’t a substitute for professional equipment. For the most accurate results, visit an optometrist or optical shop with a UV meter.

How Long Do PeakVision Sunglasses Last?

Unlike standard lenses, PeakVision lenses are engineered with integrated UV-blocking materials rather than just surface coatings. This means your lenses maintain their protection longer. However, we still recommend replacing performance sunglasses every 2–3 years if used regularly outdoors.

Why UV Protection Matters

UV damage is cumulative and irreversible which means that each year without proper protection can increase your risk of vision problems later in life. Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection are essential whether you’re playing golf or pickleball, enjoying a sunny hike, or driving on bright days.

With PeakVision, you get distortion-free optics and long-lasting UV defense designed to keep your eyes comfortable and safe. If you’re unsure whether yours still block UV rays, try the quick dollar bill test or bring them in for professional evaluation. We’re committed to helping you see the world more clearly and safely. If it’s time for an upgrade, explore our latest performance sunglasses designed to deliver superior clarity, comfort, and lasting UV protection.