Differences in Sunglasses

All sunglasses are not created equally. Lenses come in plastic, polycarbonate, or glass, and can be polarized or not. Frames can be metal or plastic. Knowing what to look for in lenses, frames, coatings, and quality is key to finding the right sunglasses fit for every person.

Winter Sports & Your Eyes

The most important thing is to choose sunglasses or goggles that provide UV protection. The harmful rays you will need to guard against are UVA and UVB. Even short-term exposure to these can result in painful sunburn of the eyes. This disorder is called "photokeratitis." In the long-term, UV rays can damage your eyes permanently and lead to cataracts and other eye conditions. Be sure to purchase sunglasses that block at least 95% of these rays.

Bolle Sunglasses

Bolle is one of the best known and respected names in sunglasses. The Bolle sunglasses name is virtually synonymous with a lightweight frame and a high quality impact resistant lens combo that is ideal for moderate sporting activities. That´s why Bolle´s are so popular with so many people. These sunglasses are stylish, but tough enough to stand up to many outdoor activities, so they actually do double duty.

Sunglasses are Necessary to Prevent Damage and Disease

Sunglasses protect the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light, which can cause many eye problems, including cataracts, degeneration of the retina, and even sunburn. Every time you go out into the sun, you should wear sunglasses to protect your sensitive eyes.

UV-A and UV-B Rays From the Sun

Ultraviolet (UV) rays released by the sun come in several types. Some are typically filtered out by the Earth's atmosphere, but UV-A and UV-B type rays can harm delicate eyes, which is why sunglasses are so important. Look for high-quality sunglasses that filter 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B rays if you want the best quality and protection in your sunglasses.

Make Sure Your Sunglasses Offer UV 400 Protection

You cannot tell how much UV protection a pair of sunglasses will provide by their price, color, or by the darkness of the lenses. Before you buy a pair of sunglasses, make sure they offer UV 400 protection, which refers to protection from 400 nanometers UVA and UVB. The sunglasses should have a label on the sunglasses that says either "UV 400" or "100% UV Protection."

You don't necessarily need to spend a lot of money on sunglasses to get full protection from UV rays, you just need to make sure the sunglasses have the protection before you buy them. Many people think that a really dark lens means the protection from UV rays is the best, but this is a myth. Always look for labels.

Wear Sunglasses to Prevent Pterygiums

A pterygium is a growth of scar tissue and blood vessels on the sun-exposed surface of the eye in response to ultraviolet damage from the environment. Pterygiums are a common problem with people who spend a lot of time in the sun but fail to wear protective sunglasses. If the sensitive outer surface of the eye (epithelium) is damaged by UV rays, a healing response is triggered and enzymes are released to dissolve the damaged tissue and scars are formed. This often grows into a wing shape, which extends across the cornea towards the pupil.

Oftentimes surgery is needed to remove pterygiums and the best thing you can do is take care to prevent them before they occur. In order to prevent pterygium, you should always wear sunglasses when outside, especially the wrap around type.

UV Protection in Different Categories of Sunglasses

Though it is important to always look for labels when buying sunglasses to protect your from UV rays, you should also recognize the 3 categories of sunglasses that comply with industry standards and know what they mean in terms of UV protection.

• Cosmetic Sunglasses- Have lightly lenses that are good for use in sunlight that is not too harsh. These glasses block 0-60% of visible light and UVA rays, and between 87-5 and 95% of UVB rays. Not recommended for daylight driving.
• General Purpose Sunglasses- Block From 60-92% of visible light and UVA rays, and between 95 and 99% of UVB rays. Good for driving and recommended for use in harsh sunlight.
• Special Purpose Sunglasses- Block up to 97% of visible light and up to 98.5% of UVA rays. Suitable for prolonged sun exposure, but are not recommended for driving.

Different Types of Lenses for UV Protection

It is important to know about the different types of sunglasses lenses so that you can choose the ones that will best protect you against UV rays. Here's a guide to help you:

• Blue-blockers- These lenses block blue light, which researchers are still determining whether or not it's harmful. These sunglasses generally have amber lenses and are often popular among skiers and boaters.
• Mirror-coated Lenses- Lenses that limit the amount of light entering your eyes.
• Gradient Lenses-Lenses are tinted from the top down, so top lens is the darkest. Good for driving. On the other hand, double gradient lenses are also tinted from the bottom up with a clear middle, and are not good for driving.
• Photochromic Lenses-Lenses that adjust their level of darkness based on the amount of UV light they're exposed to.
• Polarized Lenses- These lenses prevent reflected glare and are popular for water and snow sports.

Close-Fitting Sunglasses for Best Results

Choose close-fitting sunglasses like many of the Maui Jim selections, because they will block out more harmful UV rays from the sun. They will also protect against wind and dust outside. Look for lenses that wrap around the eyes and hug the face for protection and stylish looks.

Prescription Sunglasses

If you wear prescription eyeglasses, you can have special prescription sunglasses made with your own prescription in the lens. Most eye doctors will offer sunglasses along with regular eyeglasses. Prescription sunglasses offer more protection than polychromic lenses that change in bright or dark light. They are usually not more expensive than regular sunglasses, so there is really no reason not to have your prescription in sunglasses as well as eyeglasses.

Fashion For Your Health

Staying in fashion may be beneficial to your health. At least where sunglasses are concerned. If your eyes are exposed to too much sun and glare, you may be susceptible to cataracts. Cataracts can form for a variety of reasons, including long term ultraviolet exposure, secondary effects of diseases such as diabetes, or simply due to advanced age. Wearing sunglasses all your life may delay those deteriorations and perhaps even remove the need for surgery.