Updated on January 20, 2025

2 min read

When to Wear Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

Lauren Steinheimer
Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.
Written by Lauren Steinheimer
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.

Vision Center is funded by our readers. We may earn commissions if you purchase something via one of our links.

If you’re shopping for a new pair of sunglasses, you may wonder whether to pick polarized or non-polarized lenses. Both can be good options for blocking harmful UV rays, but there are a few key differences. Let’s discuss this more in-depth.

Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

The main difference between polarized and non-polarized lenses is that polarized ones reduce glare from bright sunlight and reflective surfaces. They also counteract bright surface glare.

Polarized lenses contain a special chemical that blocks out bright light that reflects off smooth surfaces. Like non-polarized lenses, they also reduce ambient light.

Diagram titled "Polarized Lens" showing a lens with orange lines labeled "Reflected Light" being blocked by the lens, and pink lines labeled "Clear Light" passing through the lens.

Conversely, non-polarized lenses reduce the overall intensity of light by treating all light equally. Sparkles, shimmers, and glare may still bother your eyes in certain conditions, such as snow or water.

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When is it Better to Use Polarized Lenses?

If you spend a lot of time on the road or by the water, polarized sunglasses would be better. These will help deflect bright glares from asphalt and calm water.

Polarized lenses can also reduce glare and the amount of light that reaches your eyes. It can reduce eye strain and potentially reduce tiredness.

Finally, these lenses can make images crisper and cleaner. Overall, you should consider getting polarized glasses when you are: 

  • Driving in daylight
  • Biking
  • Jogging
  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Skiing in snowy conditions

When are Non-Polarized Lenses Better?

Polarized lenses can make LCD screens difficult to read. Because of this, pilots are advised to wear non-polarized sunglasses while flying to avoid danger and confusion when using the plane’s control panel.

Non-polarized glasses are also good if you’re reading texts from phones, ATMs, etc. Other situations where you should wear non-polarized sunglasses include: 

  • Operating heavy machinery
  • Driving in at night low-light situations
  • Reading
  • Using digital screens

Non-polarized lenses are also good for skiing in icy conditions, as polarized sunglasses may make patches of ice less noticeable. 

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6 sources cited

Updated on January 20, 2025

1.
Recommended Types of Sunglasses.” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2015.
2.
Boyd, K, & McKinney, J.K. “What Are Polarized Lenses For?” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2024. 
3.
Rauch, K. “Night Driving Glasses May Hurt, Not Help.” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2018.
4.
Sunglasses for Pilots: Beyond the Image.” Federal Aviation Administration, 2005.
5.
Ivanov et al. “Ultraviolet Radiation Oxidative Stress Affects Eye Health.” Journal of Biophotonics, 2018.
6.
Backes et al. “Sun exposure to the eyes: predicted UV protection effectiveness of various sunglasses.” J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol, 2019.

About Our Contributors

Lauren Steinheimer
Author

Lauren, with a bachelor's degree in biopsychology from The College of New Jersey and public health coursework from Princeton University, is an experienced medical writer passionate about eye health. Her writing is characterized by clarity and engagement, aiming to make complex medical topics accessible to all. When not writing, Lauren dedicates her time to running a small farm with her husband and their four dogs.

Dr. Melody Huang, O.D.
Medical Reviewer

Dr. Melody Huang is an optometrist and freelance health writer with a passion for educating people about eye health. With her unique blend of clinical expertise and writing skills, Dr. Huang seeks to guide individuals towards healthier and happier lives. Her interests extend to Eastern medicine and integrative healthcare approaches. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new skincare products, experimenting with food recipes, and spending time with her adopted cats.