The importance of UV protection and how to choose the right sunglasses

• What is the significance of UV protection?

UV radiation can harm your eyes in both the short and long term. Sunburn on the surface of your eye, also known as photokeratitis, can result from short-term damage. This condition can cause symptoms like redness, pain, and light sensitivity. Long-term UV radiation exposure can result in more serious conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Cataracts are cloudings of the natural lens of the eye that can cause vision problems. Macular degeneration is a disease that affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.

• How to Pick the Best Sunglasses

When shopping for sunglasses, look for ones that offer 100% UV protection. It's important to note that the darkness of the lens doesn't necessarily indicate the level of UV protection. Although some sunglasses have dark lenses, they provide little to no UV protection. Look for a label or sticker indicating that your sunglasses block 100% of UV rays to ensure that they provide adequate protection.

• When selecting sunglasses, consider the following factors in addition to UV protection:

1. Lens material: The lens material of your sunglasses can affect their durability and clarity. Glass, polycarbonate, and CR-39 are some common lens materials. Although glass lenses are scratch-resistant, they can be heavy. Polycarbonate lenses are lightweight and shatter-resistant, but they are easily scratched. CR-39 lenses are lightweight and provide good optical clarity, but they may not last as long as other materials.
2. Lens colour: The colour of the lens can affect how much light passes through it. Gray lenses are popular because they provide true colour perception while also reducing brightness without distorting colours. Brown lenses are also popular because they improve contrast and depth perception. In low-light situations, other lens colours, such as yellow and orange, can be advantageous.
3. Frame style: The frame style of your sunglasses can affect their comfort and fit. Aviator, wayfarer, and wraparound are some popular frame styles. Aviator sunglasses have a timeless appearance and are typically made of metal. Wayfarer sunglasses are made of plastic and have a more retro look. Wraparound sunglasses provide additional protection by covering a larger portion of the eye area.
4. Fit: The fit of your sunglasses is critical for both comfort and safety. Check that the sunglasses are snug but not too tight. The frames should sit comfortably on your nose and ears, with no pressure points.

Finally, wearing sunglasses with adequate UV protection is critical for shielding your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. When shopping for sunglasses, look for a pair that offers 100% UV protection and take into account factors like lens material, lens colour, frame style, and fit. You can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your eyes safe and comfortable with the right sunglasses.