Summer is here. The sun is out. Now, imagine that you’re planning a trip to a cottage or a vacation in another country. One accessory that you decide to purchase are sunglasses. That is great, but why are sunglasses only used as a fashion statement or on special occasions?

Good quality sunglasses that protect your eyes from harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a must for everyday use. There are three types of UV rays, and they are non-visible to the human eye: UVA, UVB, and UVC. We need to protect our eyes from UVA and UVB; UVC is absorbed by the atmosphere. It’s common knowledge that excessive UV exposure can cause sunburns, wrinkles, skin cancer and etc. However, the general population is not aware of the sight-threatening eye conditions can also develop as a result of UV exposure. It can lead to Cataracts, Macular Degeneration, Pterygium, Pinguecula, Keratitis, Skin Cancers near the eyes and etc.

Sunglasses are a necessity. We should wear them every time we step outside. Whether or not it is a sunny day or a cloudy day, UV radiation is always present. Clouds do not entirely block out UV rays. We often wear sunscreen when going outside to protect our skin, but we neglect our eyes. The sunglasses not only protect your eyes, but also protect the skin around the eyes. Also, it’s a commonly assumed that only adults should wear sunglasses. However, the same rule applies to children as well; their eyes allow more UV radiation to pass through. Children are outside for long periods of time as well, so they need that protection.

You need to choose a lens that will block out 100% UV, and we can help you do that. You can get the following types of lenses:

1. Tinted sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. They will offer basic protection against bright light and UV rays
2. Polarized sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. They offer the basic protection listed above but also block blinding horizontal glare, enhance your vision and colour contrast and offer more visual comfort. They are excellent choices if one likes to go fishing or skiing, but also beneficial for daily use as well. A great example is PolarizedPlus2 technology designed and sold by Maui Jim. Their sunglasses have also earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation as an effective UV filter for the eyes and surrounding skin.
3. Photochromic lenses with UVA and UVB protection. They are intelligent lenses that change from clear to dark tint when exposed to sunlight. They will return to their clear state immediately in the absence of sunlight. People often select these lenses for their daily wear spectacles as they find it inconvenient to carry two sets of glasses with them. So, naturally one pair of lenses that meet their needs and requirements is the best way to go.
4. Chromance lenses by RayBan with UVA and UVB protection. It calibrates the light to make the colour spectrum brighter and clearer. It maximizes colour contrast and enhances detail during vision.

Keeping the aforementioned information in mind, do visit our practice at your earliest convenience. You’ll be met a friendly staff who will help you select sunglasses/tinted lenses that are not only stylish but also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.