How to Pick the Best Sunglasses to Protect Your Eyes

Why do you even need a pair of sunglasses in the first place? The sun emits very harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. You may want to protect your eyes from these rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays may cause cataracts or pterygiums or even damage your vision.

Sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory. They offer eye protection by blocking these dangerous rays. It is essential for everyone to own at least a pair of sunglasses. However, purchasing the best sunglasses may not be an easy task. Here are some tips to direct you in picking the best sunglasses.

UV Rays Protection

Ultraviolet rays are invisible light rays that contain high energy. These rays can cause damage to your eye tissues, cornea, and lens. The sun is the primary source of ultraviolet rays. You should pick a pair of sunglasses that block 100 percent of these rays.

How can you tell if the sunglasses offer 100 percent protection? Well, you should look for a tag that says, "100 percent protection against UV400." Other labels might say, "100 percent protection against both UVA and UVB."

UVA and UVB are types of UV light. UVA can easily pass through glass and has a longer wavelength. On the other hand, UVB rays are the most dangerous—but they do not go through glass.

Polarized Lenses

It would be incredibly beneficial to consider polarized lenses when choosing sunglasses. Polarized lenses contain a chemical that enables them to filter some light. These lenses reduce glare.

Thus, they can help you enhance your vision when you are on the beach, in the snow, or on water. Polarized lenses do not offer protection against UV rays. However, some polarized lenses are made with a substance that blocks UV rays. Check the label to be sure.

The Size

It is advisable to pick sunglasses that cover a large area of your eye. Oversized sunglasses are beneficial. They can help you block an increased amount of UV rays. Also, they can deflect sand and other allergens that can damage your eyes.

The Color

The color of your lens should be based on your preference. Darkened sunglasses should not carry you away. The dark-colored lenses may look good, but they do not necessarily block the UV rays. This should remind you to check for a 100-percent UV protection label before purchasing sunglasses.

The Price

Sunglasses should not necessarily be expensive for them to protect your eyes. Less pricy sunglasses can also offer 100 percent protection against UV rays. They can be just as efficient as expensive ones. Hence, you do not need to associate price with protection.

It would be best to keep your children in mind whenever you get a pair of sunglasses. They need protection too. Children do spend so more time in the sun than adults. Also, their eyes tend to be more sensitive. It would be recommendable to start protecting their eyes as early as now.

For more on picking the best sunglasses, visit Norwood Family Eyecare at our office in Bartlett, Tennessee. You can also call (901) 617-8095 to book an appointment today.