Protecting Your Eyes: A Guide to Choosing the Right Sunglasses

by AOU STAFF

Protecting Your Eyes: A Guide to Choosing the Right Sunglasses

Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement. They protect our eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause serious eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to know which ones to choose. In this guide, we’ll provide tips on how to select the best sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Don’t settle for less than 100% protection

When shopping for sunglasses, it’s crucial to ensure they offer 100% UV protection. Look for a tag or sticker that specifies this protection. Some manufacturers label their sunglasses as “UV absorption up to 400nm,” which is equivalent to 100% UV absorption.

Darker sunglasses don’t always mean better protection

Contrary to popular belief, darker sunglasses don’t necessarily provide better UV protection. Always check for sunglasses with 100% UV protection, regardless of the lens tint.

Polarized lenses don’t block UV rays

Polarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and roads, but they don’t block UV rays. Look for polarized sunglasses with UV-blocking substances on their label.

Do a lens quality check

It’s essential to ensure the lenses of your sunglasses are made correctly. You can check this by looking at something with a rectangular pattern, like a tiled floor, through one lens at a time. If the rectangular lines stay straight, the lenses are fine. If they wiggle or are wavy, try another pair.

Size matters

The larger the lenses of your sunglasses, the better protection they offer for your eyes. Consider purchasing oversized or wraparound-style sunglasses to limit UV rays from entering the sides of the glasses.

Color doesn’t matter

The color of your sunglasses doesn’t determine the amount of sun protection they offer. However, brown or rose-colored lenses can provide more contrast and can be useful for athletes who play sports like golf or baseball.

Think of impact protection

When purchasing sunglasses, consider impact protection. Look for plastic lenses, which are less likely to shatter than glass lenses if hit by a rock or ball. For sports, polycarbonate plastic lenses are especially tough but scratch easily without a scratch-resistant coating.

Price is not related to protection

Expensive sunglasses don’t necessarily offer better protection than drugstore sunglasses. Always look for sunglasses labeled as 100% UV-blocking, regardless of their price.

When sunglasses don’t help

Normal sunglasses won’t protect your eyes from certain light sources like tanning beds, snowfields, or arc welding. Special lens filters are required for these extreme exposure situations. Also, sunglasses won’t protect your eyes if you stare directly at the sun, including during a solar eclipse. This can cause a serious and painful condition called photokeratitis, which can damage your retina and lead to permanent vision loss. Consult your ophthalmologist for the appropriate eye protection for these special situations.

In conclusion, protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays is crucial, and sunglasses play an essential role in doing so. By keeping these tips in mind, you can select sunglasses that offer the best protection for your eyes, ensuring their health and longevity.

If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable pair of sunglasses that offer excellent UV protection, be sure to check out the collection at Archives of Us. With a wide range of designs to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect pair to suit your style and budget. Don’t settle for less than 100% UV protection — trust Archives of Us to keep your eyes safe and looking cool. Shop now and enjoy the sun in style!

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