Why Is UV Protection Important in Sunglasses?

Most people focus on style, fit, and lens color when choosing sunglasses. However, one crucial factor that you must never overlook is UV protection. Ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun can damage your eyes and skin. Read on to explore the importance of UV protection in sunglasses.

Understanding the Dangers of UV Rays

After gamma rays and X-rays, UV rays are among the most powerful forms of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. There are three classes of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. The first, UVA rays, can penetrate deep into your skin. UVB rays have shorter wavelengths. They primarily affect the outer layers of the skin. Both UVA and UVB rays can be harmful to your eyes.

The Eyes and UV Radiation

Your eyes are sensitive and vulnerable to the damaging effects of UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to different eye conditions and diseases. These include cataracts, photokeratitis, macular degeneration, and pterygium. These conditions can cause vision impairment, discomfort, and in severe cases, blindness.

Protection Against Cataracts and Macular Degeneration

Cataracts and macular degeneration are conditions commonly associated with aging. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can accelerate their development. UV-protective sunglasses act as a barrier, preventing UV rays from reaching the eyes and reducing the risk of the condition.

Preventing Photokeratitis and Pterygium

Photokeratitis, commonly known as snow blindness, is a painful eye condition brought about by overexposure to UV radiation reflecting off snow, water, or sand. UV-protective sunglasses shield the eyes from UV rays.

They prevent photokeratitis and provide relief from the associated discomfort. Wearing sunglasses also helps in preventing the growth of pterygium. The noncancerous conjunctiva growth can affect your vision.

Skin Cancer Prevention

The delicate skin near the eyes is prone to sunburn. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, on your eyelids and surrounding areas. UV-protective sunglasses shield the eyes and protect against skin cancer and premature aging caused by the sun.

UV-protective sunglasses leverage lenses with a special coating capable of absorbing or reflecting UV radiation. You can minimize the risk of eye conditions and maintain healthy vision by wearing UV-protective sunglasses.

Choosing the Right UV-protective Sunglasses

Ensure you select sunglasses that provide adequate UV protection. Look for those labeled with 100% UV protection or UV 400, meaning they block UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, consider sunglasses with larger frames or wraparound styles. These provide better coverage and minimize peripheral exposure to UV rays.

Quality sunglasses should have a label indicating compliance with relevant industry standards. Purchase sunglasses from reputable brands or optical stores to ensure authenticity and effectiveness.

UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy or overcast days, so you must wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors regardless of the weather. It is imperative when you are out walking, driving, playing sports, and near water or snowy areas. UV rays can be more intense due to reflection.

For more on the importance of UV protection in sunglasses, visit Marshall EyeCare at our office in Aberdeen, New Jersey. Call (732) 837-0988 to book an appointment today.