Sunglasses Give UV Protection of the Eyes
Choosing Sunglasses to Prevent Ultraviolet Eye Damage.
Most people are aware of the dangerous effects of the sun on skin and many take great care to protect themselves and their children from sunburn and its effects. Few though would give any consideration to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) light on the eyes.
There are three types of UV light: UVA, UVB and UVC. UVC is harmless to humans as it is absorbed in the upper layers of the atmosphere and does not penetrate to the earth’s surface. However UVA and UVB are both harmful to the skin and eyes.
Most people would use sunglasses to protect their eyes from the sun’s glare but there is more to eye protection than simply donning a pair of stylish dark-lens sunglasses. Eye protection from ultraviolet (UV) light matters more than many think; UV light will damage the eyelids but also the conjunctiva and cornea.
The short term effects of UV damage is a kind of sunburn of the eyes called photokeratisis. The symptoms include pain, red eye, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light and a gritty sensation. It does not usually produce permanent damage. Long term effects are more serious and include the development of cataracts, pterygium and pinquecula.
When buying sunglasses look for the UV protection information on the labels; good sunglasses should block 99 percent of UVB rays and 95 percent of UVA rays. Never consider sunglasses that are purely showy or cosmetic or that do not provide information on UV protection. When exposed to UV light for long periods wear “wrap-around” frames as they afford extra protection.
Sunglass Lens
Consider also the type of sunglass lens as there are a number of lenses:
- Blue-blocking Lenses
These are usually yellow or orange in colour and may provide protection from age-related macula degeneration as well as from UV light damage. But not all yellow or orange coloured lenses are UV safe.
- Lens Colour
Sunglass lenses come in a rainbow of colours but grey is generally reckoned to give the best clarity.
- Polarised Lenses
These reduce glare enabling clearer vision but do not block UV rays.
- Photochromic Lenses
These lenses react to light intensity darkening in strong light and returning to clarity when in normal lighting conditions. Not all Photochromic lenses give adequate UV protection so examine the product label to check the level of protection.
- Mirror Lenses
These reduce visible light but don’t necessarily block UV light.
- Polycarbonate Lenses
Protect the eyes from injuries caused by impacts and offer a good level of UV protection too.
- Prescription Lenses
Ordinary prescription lenses may be coated with a UV protective layer without altering clarity of vision.
Contact Lenses
Hard and semi-rigid contact lenses give some protection from UV damage but as they only cover the cornea the protection is limited to that part of the eye. Contact lens wearers should also wear sunglasses when exposed to direct sunlight.
Children and Sunglasses
Don’t forget the kids and teenagers as they tend to spend a greater amount of time outdoors than do adults. Adequate protection is vital for children and teenagers.
Besides the usual skin protection eye protection is equally important in maintaining good health and wellbeing. Checking the UV protection factor of sunglasses helps prevent painful and debilitating ophthalmic conditions. It is not necessary to buy expensive sunglasses as even some of the cheapest generic, non-branded models provide excellent protection while also being stylish and fashionable.
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