Sunglasses don’t just look good—they’re good for you, too—here’s how to choose the right pair
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. They protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV radiation can damage your eyes and increase your risk of developing serious eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
Choosing the Right Sunglasses
When choosing sunglasses, look for the following features:
- UV Protection: The most important feature of sunglasses is UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Lens Color: Lens color is a matter of personal preference. However, some lens colors can enhance contrast and reduce glare.
- Frame Fit: The frame should fit comfortably and securely on your face.
- Lens Size: The lenses should be large enough to cover your eyes completely.
Types of Sunglasses
There are many different types of sunglasses available, including:
- Polarized Sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and snow.
- Mirrored Sunglasses: Mirrored sunglasses have a reflective coating that can reduce glare and make your eyes less visible to others.
- Sport Sunglasses: Sport sunglasses are designed for active lifestyles. They often have features like wraparound frames and adjustable nose pads.
- Wrap-Around Sunglasses: Wrap-around sunglasses provide a wide field of vision and protect your eyes from the sun from all angles.
Tips for Choosing Sunglasses
- Try them on: Try on several different pairs of sunglasses to find a pair that fits comfortably and looks good on you.
- Consider your lifestyle: Choose sunglasses that are appropriate for your lifestyle. For example, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to choose sunglasses with wraparound frames and polarized lenses.
- Don’t buy cheap sunglasses: Cheap sunglasses may not provide adequate UV protection.
- Protect your sunglasses: Store your sunglasses in a case to protect them from scratches and damage.
Sunglasses for Children
Children’s eyes are more sensitive to UV radiation than adults’ eyes. It is important to protect children’s eyes from the sun by having them wear sunglasses when they are outdoors.
Sunglasses and Driving
Sunglasses can help to reduce glare when driving. However, it is important to choose sunglasses that are not too dark. Too dark sunglasses can make it difficult to see in low-light conditions.
Sunglasses and Contact Lenses
If you wear contact lenses, you may need to choose sunglasses with larger lenses to ensure that your eyes are completely covered.
Sunglasses and Prescription Glasses
If you wear prescription glasses, you can get prescription sunglasses. Prescription sunglasses are made with your prescription in the lenses.
Sunglasses and Fashion
Sunglasses are also a fashion accessory. You can choose sunglasses that complement your personal style.
Conclusion
Sunglasses are an important part of eye protection. By choosing the right sunglasses and wearing them properly, you can protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Additional Information
- The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that everyone wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays.
- The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing sunglasses that meet the Eye Protection Standard set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
- You can find more information about sunglasses on the websites of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Skin Cancer Foundation.
In Summary
Sunglasses are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. They protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays and can help to prevent serious eye conditions. When choosing sunglasses, look for features like UV protection, lens color, frame fit, and lens size.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any questions you may have regarding your health.
