Learn how to choose your next pair of sunglasses.
When we think about not getting sunburned, we typically think about sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing. But no matter what the season is outside, the sun’s UV rays can create potential UV damage to your eyes. Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall… cloudy or sunny… the UV rays are still something to protect your eyes from. Both UVA and UVB rays can increase your risk of certain eye conditions like blurred vision, early cataracts and macular degeneration among a few. And yes, your eyes can get sunburned as well! Choosing the right pair of sunglasses can be key to protecting your eyes.
Wearing sunglasses is an obvious choice of protection, but not all sunglasses protect your eyes as well as you think.
Make sure there is a label.
When you are purchasing sunglasses, pay attention to the label. All sunglasses should indicate their level of UV protection and you should always be looking for glasses with:
- – 100% UV protection
- – Block both UVA/UVB rays
- – 400NM or UV400
In today’s world, sadly it can be hard to trust the label. Instead of ordering sunglasses from just any retailer, do some research and be sure you are purchasing your glasses from a reputable source. Sometimes those cheaper glasses aren’t a good deal after all.
Should you go Darker?
The lenses on sunglasses dont necessarily have to be dark to protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. Actually, coloring and tint don’t have anything to do with UV protection. Which is good news for choosing the right pair of sunglasses that works with your style.
Size IS important.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology says: “Sunglasses with larger lenses may provide more protection. Wraparound glasses offer the best coverage. These glasses can protect the eye from UV light entering from the side.” So if trying to decide between a smaller frame or a larger one, bigger is definitely better.
Don’t forget the kids.
Please don’t forget that usually most of the sun damage is done to our eyes by our 20s, so make sure your kids are wearing 100% UV protective glasses as well.
For more tips on buying sunglasses that protect, go to AAO.org.