Wearing sunglasses is not only fashionable but goes a long way toward protecting the health of your eyes; sunglasses can help protect the delicate skin in the eye area from premature signs of aging due to UV rays and sun damage.
Your eyes can get damaged by the sun just like your skin, but you can’t protect your eyes with sunscreen! Your best defense against these hazards is to wear protective UV blocking sunglasses, so while you apply sunscreen to protect your skin, think about sunglasses to protect your eyes
People who spend long hours on the beach or in the snow without adequate eye protection can develop a painful, but reversible, sunburn of the cornea which may temporarily affect vision. When spending time outdoors, your eyes are subject to sunlight reflecting off of snow, sand and water, which further increases your exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Eyes exposed to too much sun over time can develop very serious and sometimes permanent damage. Many ophthalmologists recommend wearing UV blocking sunglasses any time you are in the sun long enough to get a sunburn or tan. This can help avoid or reduce the risk of some age related eye diseases, especially cataracts. Too much sun exposure may also cause yellowed areas on the whites of the eye.
UV radiation in sunlight is commonly divided into UVA and UVB, and your sunglasses should block both forms. You may not always get more UV protection with pricier sunglasses or glasses with a darker tint. Check for a label that specifically states that the glasses offer 99 percent to 100 percent UV protection or are rated UV 400. UV 400 protection lenses are designed to block 100% blue light with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. Sunglasses should be dark enough to reduce glare, but not dark enough to distort colors and affect the recognition of traffic signals. Tint is mainly a matter of personal preference.
For greater protection from UV rays, larger sunglasses that are wraparound shaped are best because they protect more of the eye area and do not allow the light to get around the side of the lens into the eye. They can also help to protect the eyes from the wind as well as the sand, dirt, and pollen sometimes carried by the wind.
Sunglasses can help keep you safe while driving or playing sports in bright sun. Glare from the sun reflecting off snow, water, or other objects can be blinding and very hazardous while driving. Polarized lenses, such as those made by Oakley, Eagle Eyes, BluBlocker and more, are best suited for these situations because they reduce reflected glare from the sun, so however you spend your outdoor recreation time, polarized sunglasses are an excellent choice.
In addition to providing comfort and health benefits, sunglasses can be a fun and fashionable accessory, so have fun choosing a variety of styles and colors to enhance your favorite ensembles and reflect your every mood.