Most of us love summer. Yet, during the summer we are most exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays and white-hot glare. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to eye protection. In this article, we want to share with you a couple of easy-to-implement tips that can help you choose the right pair of sunglasses for you this summer.
Why Do You Need Eye Protection During the Summer?
Sunglasses are more than a fashion accessory. So, do not assume that all sunglasses offer the same level of eye protection. It is important to buy and wear quality sunglasses because excessive UV exposure can have a negative impact on the macula and thus on your vision later in life. This is particularly true for people with light-coloured eyes.
Common Myths about Sunglasses and Eye Protection
There are some misassumptions in regards to sunglasses and eye protection. For instance, a lot of people believe that darker lenses protect better. On the one hand, we must admit that these lenses can look quite cool and attractive. Nevertheless, there is no proof that they are more effective at blocking UV rays.
Another myth has to do with the importance of color. You certainly know from personal experience that sunglasses can come with grey, green, amber etc. lenses. This type of lens increases contrast which is why they are commonly used for making sports glasses. However, it is a false belief that such lenses block more sun.
Next, a lot of people are fans of polarized sunglasses. What they might not know, though, is that polarization does not increase eye protection. Instead, it reduces glare. Therefore, such sunglasses can make activities such as driving much more enjoyable.
Tips for Optimal Eye Protection
If there is one thing to pay attention to when you buy sunglasses, this is whether or not the lenses block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Interestingly enough, you do not need to pay tons of money in order to get proper eye protection. In fact, there are plenty of affordable options that offer a high level of UV protection.
Moreover, ophthalmologists often recommend choosing bigger sunglasses. This is so because wearing oversized, as well as wraparound-style glasses prevents more UV rays from entering the eye.
Next, it is false to assume that kids do not need eye protection. Since damage from UV radiation is cumulative over one’s lifetime, it is vital to teaching children to wear sunglasses early on.
Last, but not least, if you have to wear prescription eyeglasses, keep in mind the following. You can choose lenses with built-in UV protection that automatically get darker when you go outdoors.
As you can see, sunglasses are more than a fashion statement. So, before you buy those trendy cat-eye sunglasses from the sunglasses store, take eye protection into consideration.
