UV Protection in Sunglasses: A Must

Sunglasses are a fashionable accessory. With changing styles and seasons, most people own a few pair and update their collection regularly, but sunglasses can also provide an important health benefit.

Lenses with UVC, UVB, and UVA ray protection are necessary for anyone who spends time outside. Even on a cloudy day or in the shade your eyes are exposed to harmful rays that can cause serious damage to your eyes.

Sun exposure has been linked to the formation of cataracts: the clouding of the eye lens, which can cause blindness and can only be repaired with surgery. It is also the leading cause of macular degeneration or the deposit of yellowish spots on the focusing part of the eye, causing blind spots that, often, can't be repaired.  UV exposure can also cause growths called pingueculae and pterygia to grow on the eye. Additionally, sunburn to the eyes called photokeratitis can cause temporary blindness.

The skin around the eyes is also delicate and sensitive to UV rays. Not providing these areas with proper protection can cause damage and premature aging such as wrinkles and age spots. Using an SPF of 15+ and wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection will keep your skin looking younger longer.

Wearing sunglasses without UV protection can be more harmful than wearing none at all. When a lens without UV protection shades the brightness of sun, you squint less. Squinting is important as it causes less of the harmful rays to enter your eye. When you don't squint because the sunglasses shade your eye, more of the harmful rays enter your eye. Wearing lenses with UV protection is the best way to keep your eyes healthy as the right pair can block 100% of harmful rays.

Anytime you are outside your eyes need protection. The ray's reflection off snow, sand or water can be particularly harmful as those elements can reflect up to 80% of the harmful rays multiplying exposure. There are many styles of sunglasses to meet your needs for durability during activities. Proper protection during skiing or snowboarding is particularly important.

The color or darkness of lenses is not an indication of their UV protection. Your retailer or optician can help you pick the best sunglasses for your needs. Additionally, most opticians have equipment to test which, if any UV rays your sunglasses block or absorb.

UV rays can present many threats to you health and wellbeing, but with the right protection, you can enjoy the outdoors with little worry. Starting with the right pair of sunglasses is a great first step to a long a healthy life.