Sun protection for your eyes, all year round
Sunglasses are not just for summer or the beach. Ultraviolet radiation reaches you on cloudy days and in winter, and the eye accumulates it over the years.
Why it matters
Sustained ultraviolet exposure is associated with several conditions of the eye and of the eyelid skin, which is thin and delicate. The damage is not felt at the time: it adds up across a lifetime. That is exactly the reason to protect early, and especially children, who spend more hours outdoors.
What to look for
- Ultraviolet protection. This is the only essential. It should block 100% of UVA and UVB; the label will say "100% UV" or "UV400". If it does not say, do not assume it.
- Tint is not protection. A very dark lens without a UV filter protects less than a light one that has it. Dark and protective are not the same thing.
- Coverage. A wide or wrapped frame lets less light in from the sides.
- Polarized. Cuts glare off asphalt, water and snow. It is a matter of comfort and seeing better while driving; it does not replace the UV filter.
- With your prescription. If you wear glasses, sunglasses can carry your prescription too. Squinting the whole drive is not protection.
When it matters most
Midday, near water, in snow, at altitude, and driving into the sun. Also after certain eye procedures, when light sensitivity increases.
Cheap can cost more
Sunglasses without a UV filter can be worse than none: the dark lens makes the pupil open wider, and more radiation gets in. It is worth buying somewhere you can confirm the filter.
Stop by any of our three offices and we will help you choose, with your prescription if you need it.