The Vision Council Foundation, AccuWeather, and The Skin Cancer Foundation are joining forces ahead of National Sunglasses Day 2026 to promote a broader message around daily UV protection.
Observed annually on June 27, National Sunglasses Day has traditionally focused on the importance of UV-protective eyewear. This year’s campaign message includes eye protection, skin protection, and weather awareness through a coordinated public education initiative on comprehensive UV protection.
Unified Campaign and Education
According to the organizations, the campaign encourages consumers to adopt a complete routine for sun safety by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, applying sunscreen, using protective clothing and hats, and monitoring the UV Index daily.
Each organization will contribute educational resources tied to its area of expertise:
- The Vision Council Foundation will continue promoting UV-protective eyewear through its National Sunglasses Day campaign.
- The Skin Cancer Foundation will provide guidance on sunscreen use, sun-protective clothing, and early skin cancer detection.
- AccuWeather will provide localized UV forecasts and brightness information through its UV Index and AccuLumen Brightness Index.
UV Radiation
As National Sunglasses Day approached, the organizations are highlighting continued gaps in UV protection habits. The Vision Council’s 2025 Market inSights with 2026 Forecast report found that more than 37% of U.S. adults do not regularly wear sunglasses. This increases the risk of UV-related eye conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, photokeratitis, and cancers affecting the eye and eyelid.
In addition, the Skin Cancer Foundation reports that skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the United States, with UV radiation serving as its leading cause. The organizations emphasized that UV damage to both the eyes and skin is cumulative and irreversible.
“Protecting yourself from the sun isn’t a single habit, but a complete routine,” said Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council and The Vision Council Foundation. “When you walk out the door, you should be reaching for your sunglasses and your sunscreen, and you should know what the UV Index looks like that day.”
Industry Participation
Leading up to June 27, the organizations will coordinate digital and social media content promoting UV safety and #NationalSunglassesDay.
The Vision Council Foundation is also offering free downloadable toolkits for eye care providers that include social graphics, fact sheets, and customizable educational materials.