Sunglasses
PROPER SUN PROTECTION IS ESSENTIAL WHEN ENJOYING THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
Are you aware how the sun's UV rays can harm your skin? WRINKLES! Premature aging and skin cancer are some of the dangers of unprotected sun exposure.
Did you know that the same rays that age and damage your skin could hurt your eyes, too?
Strong sunlight, and artificial light from sources like welding arcs or tanning lamps can burn the surface of the eye, much like sunburn on the skin. Reflected sunlight (from the water, for example) is particularly dangerous.
There is also evidence that exposure to UV light can contribute to the development of eye diseases that commonly occur as we age, such as cataract and macular degeneration.
Visible Light
Visible light is the part of the sun's energy that you can see. It is made up of a spectrum of colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet. The eye is not equally sensitive to all of these colors. It is most sensitive to yellows and greens which it can see the best. The eye is less sensitive to reds and blues.
.Different Ultraviolet Rays
Ultraviolet rays have shorter wavelengths and more energy than visible light rays. They can have a harmful effect on the eyes immediately or cumulatively from regular exposure over a number of years. The industry has set standards for how much UV may be transmitted (passed) by types of sunglasses.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are strongest at high altitudes, low latitudes, and in open or reflective environments (like sand, snow, or water). They are also strongest at midday. Scientists divide UV rays into three bands according to wavelength: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
UVA-short wave
UVA rays have been shown to penetrate the under layers of the skin, causing damage and contributing to the skin's aging and cataracts. Therefore, it is certainly wise to require protection from them in sunglasses.
UVB-long wave
UVB rays, the sunburn rays, are the ones that cause the most concern. They can cause keratitis, which is similar to sunburn on the eye, and also have been linked to the development of cataracts.
UVC
UVC rays are the shortest, the most energetic, and may be the most harmful. Fortunately, they are blocked in the upper atmosphere and never reach the earth. If sunglasses protect against UVB, we can assume they protect against any possible exposure to UVC.
Types of Lens Tint
Transitions:
Darkens when exposed to UV light and lightens when indoors.
- Darkens and fades back faster-most advanced photo chromic lenses
- Thinner and lighter than standard plastics
- Available in gray and brown tints
- 100% UV protection
Polarized lenses:
- Truly ideal for bright sun conditions and activities such as fishing, hunting, driving and skiing
- Superior glare reduction, color contrast and depth perception
- Truly the best sunglass lenses available
Mirrored Coatings:
- Effective for intense sunlight and glare.
- A thin metallic coating is placed over a regular sunglass lens to create the mirrored look.
- All three of these mirrored coatings protect against glare. Top gradient is graduated and heaviest at the top of the lens. Double gradient is heaviest at the top and the bottom, and provides a buffer against both overhead and surface glare. (The middle part of the lens is not mirrored) Full mirror is completely mirrored.
Tips for Enjoying the Sun Safely
- Always wear appropriate sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when out in the sun for extended periods.
- Make sure your sunglasses block 99% or 100% of UV rays (check the label.)
- If you spend prolonged time in the sun or on the water during the middle of the day, wear close-fitting goggles or sunglasses with lenses that absorb all UV-A and UV-B. Blue light absorption may be helpful as well.
- If you feel you must use a tanning booth, make sure the salon gives you (sterilized) protective eye goggles, as required by the FDA.
What should I look for when choosing a pair of sunglasses?
No matter what sunglass styles or options you choose, you should insist that your sunglasses:
- Block out 99-100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation
- Screen out 75-90 percent of visible light (fashion tinted lenses usually do not meet this level)
- Are perfectly matched in color and are free of distortion and imperfection
Have lenses that are gray, green, or brown (gray is recommended).
