Many of us will go through several pairs this summer alone, but are your sunglasses really doing their job? While it may be easier on your wallet, cheap sunglasses from department stores and gas stations may not offer the proper protection.

They're a fashion accessory that makes a statement, but can also preserve your vision.

Doctors say UV light is known to cause some skin cancers particularly melanomas and it can certainly cause cataracts, and other visual problems with the retina.

And what separates sunglasses from an eye clinic and a department stores is a stamp from the FDA ensuring you are getting the most u-v protection possible - blocking both harmful u-v-a and u-v-b rays.

A local optician says, "Another thing about coming here or to an eye care professional to get your sunglasses is different hobbies thing that you do outside take different colors."

She says, for example, grey lens keep colors looking the most natural, brown offers more color contrast, and rose lens are good for activities during dusk.

And while these special sunglasses come with many unique features, eye experts say they usually start around $150. But they say to think of them as an investment.

Eye doctors say the three most important things to consider when shopping for sunglasses are UV protection, glare reduction, and the color of the lens.