Protecting Your Eyes from UV Radiation: Why Sunglasses Matter

We are all aware of the dangers of the sun. Not only can its UV rays harm your skin, but they can also damage your eyes, contributing to ailments like cataracts, glaucoma, and even eye cancer. It’s critical that we protect ourselves from these rays, but what are the best ways to do that? Do sunglasses work? What type of sunglasses are the most effective? Here is your all-inclusive guide to protecting your eyes from UV radiation.

Do Sunglasses Work?

First, let’s answer this question. Yes! Well, most of the time.  We wear sunglasses during the summer months, but it’s actually necessary to wear them year-round. There are many factors concerning sunglasses to consider.

The Benefits of Protective Eyewear

Sunglasses can protect our eyes from the sun but also have other benefits. They can help with eyestrain, prevent squinting, protect from dust and dirt, and prevent headaches. They can also assist with preventing wrinkles and skin cancer around the eyes.

Make Sure You Choose the Right Sunglasses

• Choose the Right UV Protection
  When protecting your eyes from the sun, not just any glasses will do. You must choose wisely and make sure your sunglasses are fully protective. Sunglasses usually come with some form of UV protection. There are two common types of sunlight: UVA and UVB. When you choose sunglasses, make sure to purchase only sunglasses that are 100% protective from both UVA and UVB radiation. They should be marked clearly with a label.
• Choose Quality Eyewear
  Make sure you choose eyewear from a reputable brand. Quality eyewear means you are more likely to have protection you can trust.
• Do Style and Color Matter?
  Make sure you choose a style that fits your face and the shape of your eye. Not only will you look cute and stylish, but the protective eyewear will cover the eyes thoroughly and protect them from harmful rays.
  Color also makes a difference. Suppose you suffer from macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. In that case, you will want to buy sunglasses with brown or grey lenses, as these colors help enhance color contrast and can help you see. If you need sunglasses for driving, choose brown, yellow, green, or grey lenses. These colors help minimize color distortion and make it easier to see clearly while driving.

Other Considerations

• Prescription Sunglasses
  It is advisable to order prescription sunglasses if you wear regular glasses. You’ll be able to see more clearly if your sunglasses are prescription strength.
• Transition Lenses
  These lenses darken when you walk into the sun. They can be very effective in protecting against UV rays and glare.
• Polarized Lenses
  These do not protect against UV radiation, but they can reduce glare and may be helpful for those who have had LASIK eye surgery.

Conclusion

Protecting your eyes from UV radiation is essential for many reasons, from protecting against eye conditions to safeguarding the skin around the eye. When it comes to UV protection, you can’t be too careful. Choose sunglasses that suit your face, make you feel confident, and offer the highest level of UVA and UVB protection you can find. It’s never too late to start protecting the eyes.

Spindle Eye Associates

If you want more answers about protecting the eyes, contact the experts Spindle Eye Associates. Our optometrists and ophthalmologists will gladly assist you with all your eye care needs. With four locations in the New Hampshire area, we are available to see patients in Derry, Londonderry, Windham, and Raymond. For more information, visit our website or call (603) 217-2583.