Vision Protection

SUNGLASSES

Function Over Fashion

Sunglasses are often seen as just a fashion accessory. Although you can wear sunglasses in any season, they maintain visual health all year round. They help to:

Prevent progressive eye disease.
Reduce light sensitivity and eyestrain.
Protect the eye from injuries due to sun exposure, projectiles, glare, and other hazards.

Here are some eye protection tips.

Ultraviolet (UVA/B) Protection

Like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV exposure can cause skin cancers, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Here’s how to protect your eyes:

Wear Sunglasses with UVA/B Protection: Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. The CDC and others recommend sunglasses with 100% (400 nm) UV protection.
Wear Sunglasses Year-Round: UV rays are present all year. They can reflect off surfaces like water, snow, cement, and sand.

Eye Trauma Protection

Outdoor activities can expose your eyes to injuries. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses. Sunglasses protect against balls, projectiles, sand, and wind.

Choose the Right Fit: Sunglasses should cover from your eyebrow to your cheekbone, past the edges of your eyelids. Wraparound styles offer the best protection.
Select Safe Lenses: Polycarbonate or Trivex lenses are best. They’re less likely to shatter than glass or regular plastic. Look for sunglasses marked “ANSI Z87.1” to ensure they meet safety standards.

Light Sensitivity and Eye Strain

Sunlight and glare can cause eye discomfort, pain, and squinting. Squinting can lead to eye fatigue and headaches. Wearing sunglasses can help reduce these issues.

Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses cut down glare from reflective surfaces like water or roads. This helps improve vision while driving or doing other activities.
Year-Round Use: Wear sunglasses all year to protect your eyes. They provide UV protection, prevent eye disease, and guard against injuries.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses

100% UV Protection: Make sure your sunglasses block 100% of UV rays.
Polarized Lenses: Get polarized lenses if they don’t interfere with your vision or screen use.
Complete Coverage: Choose sunglasses that fully cover your eyes to ensure maximum protection.

Wearing the right pair of sunglasses can mean the difference between eye health and eye problems. Protect your eyes and enjoy a lifetime of good vision.