By Amy Hellem; reviewed by Gary Heiting, OD

Visual acuity is reduced at night because a less-than-optimal amount of light reaches the retina in low-light conditions.

Wearing sunglasses at night further reduces the amount of light reaching the retina, and therefore is not recommended under any circumstances — especially when driving at night — because it will worsen darkness-related visual impairment.

Even sunglasses with yellow or light amber lenses that are promoted as a way to enhance contrast during daylight will work against you at night.

There's just one exception...

If you live in Alaska or somewhere near the North or South Pole when there's nonstop sunlight near the summer solstice, then go ahead and wear your sunglasses at night during this "midnight sun" time of year!

Page published on Tuesday, January 8, 2019