Choosing Sunglasses: Factors to Consider

Sunglasses help reduce eye damageBefore hitting the beach or anywhere outdoors this summer, it’s important that you remember to take the necessary steps to protect yourself from the sun. This means lathering on sunscreen and putting on sunglasses. But just like sunscreen, not all sunglasses are created equal. While sunglasses are meant to help you see better outdoors, some do a better job of protecting your eyes from the sun than others. The experts at Eye Q Premium Laser offer these important factors to consider when choosing a pair of sunglasses that can protect your eyes the best.

UV Protection

Sunglasses come with a sticker on the lenses that tells what percentage of UV rays they block. For optimum protection, you should always buy sunglasses that block 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Sunglasses with the label “UV 400,” are the best option because this means all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, including tiny rays, are blocked.

Size Matters

Not only are oversized glasses stylish, they also help prevent more UV rays from reaching the eyes than regular sized sunglasses. For even more protection from UV rays, consider buying wraparound style glasses, which help prevent UV rays from reaching the eyes from the sides of the face.

Polarized Lenses

While polarized lenses don’t offer extra protection from UV rays, they do reduce glare from reflective surfaces, making activities such as driving safer and enjoyable. Consider polarized sunglasses if you plan on spending a lot of time in the water this summer.

Attractive Sunglasses

There’s no shortage of sunglasses out there, so be sure to choose a pair that you find appealing and actually want to wear. Having a pair of sunglasses you enjoy will motivate you to wear them more often. Find frames that best suit the shape of your face, and find a color, or colors, that go best with your personality or outfit.

Prescription Sunglasses

If you have vision difficulties, prescription sunglasses provide much needed protection from UV rays, without compromising your eyesight. Like polarized lenses, prescription sunglasses can help reduce glare, making driving in the sun easier and safer. If you wear contact lenses, consider swapping them for prescription sunglasses while outdoors. Contact lenses don’t offer protection from the sun and you can run the risk of an eye infection if you wear them while swimming.

Interested in having clearer vision when you head outdoors this summer? LASIK surgery can help. To find out more about the procedure, or to schedule a consultation, call Dr. Joseph Leong-Sit at Eye Q Premium Laser today.