What are the benefits of UV protection for my eyes?
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause serious ocular issues over time. Subjecting your eyes to UV radiation over a short but intense period of time can cause photokeratitis, likened to a sunburn of the eyes, which causes painful but temporary symptoms like red eyes, tearing, and extreme sensitivity to light.
Exposure to solar radiation over many years can increase the risk of developing serious eye diseases like cataracts, eye cancer, or macular degeneration (which can result in severe loss of central vision).
Thankfully, sunglasses that provide 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays (the two basic types of ultraviolet rays that reach the earth) are a great way to prevent these issues.
When should I wear my sunglasses?
All the time! Our eyes are just as exposed to UV rays on cloudy days as they are on sunny days. Many winter days are perhaps even more worthy of proper protection, as snow reflects 94% of UV rays.
What are polarized sunglasses?
In addition to offering protection from ultraviolet rays, polarized lenses significantly reduce the intensity of the sometimes-blinding glare caused by sunlight bouncing off a flat surface – like water, snow, or the road. If you’re interested in knowing more, we put together a primer on polarized lenses that delves deeper into it.
What is the most effective colour for solar lenses?
As long as your sunglasses are identified as UV protected, choosing a tint for your lenses essentially comes down to preference. Grey lenses are an excellent choice for those who want to experience colours in their least altered form; green tints allow for better contrast; and browns ensure greater depth perception.
Do photochromic lenses offer UV protection?
They do! They also offer protection against harmful blue light, an ideal combination for glasses meant to adapt effortlessly to outdoor and indoor activities. If you’re thinking of transitioning (get it?) to light-intelligent glasses, you’ll find even more information in our article on photochromic lenses.
Does price matter when it comes to UV protection?
Although steeper prices can feel like they are synonymous with higher quality, that doesn't apply to UV protection. What matters is that your sunglasses ensure 100% UVA and UVB protection, and that’s something you can absolutely obtain without splurging on designer eyewear. It is worth keeping in mind that though inexpensive glasses might filter out UV rays adequately, they might lack in optical quality. Also, the UV coating on cheap sunnies might wear off more rapidly over time.
Does UV protection in solar lenses decrease over time?
The ultraviolet protection in your sunglasses could deteriorate over time, but that’s something you’re only likely to experience after many years of exposure to the sun. Anyway, who doesn’t like a good excuse to get new shades once in a while?
Ready to embark upon the sunniest of seasons? Browse our selection of stylish, UV-safe sunglasses!
