Selecting the Right Sunglasses

The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers tips for buying shades that give the most protection from harmful UV rays.

Everyone knows sunglasses make it easier to see on a sunny day, whether you’re out on the road or the water. However, wearing the right sunglasses is also the best defense for keeping ultraviolet (UV) rays from causing short- and long-term eye damage, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons.

Studies have shown that accumulated UV exposure from the sun can heighten the risk of cataracts, as well as certain kinds of growths and eye cancer. Even just a few hours of intense UV exposure can cause temporary blindness. While everyone can potentially suffer these conditions, children and people with light-colored eyes should be especially careful since their eyes may be more susceptible to damage from the sun’s rays.

To help the public better protect their eyes from the sun, the Academy recently shared a list of important factors to consider when purchasing sunglasses:

• Make it 100 percent. The single most important thing to look for when buying sunglasses to protect your eyes is a sticker or tag indicating that they block 100 percent of UV rays.
• Bigger is better. The more coverage from sunglasses, the less sun damage inflicted on the eyes. Consider buying oversized or wraparound-style glasses, which help cut down on UV entering the eye from the side.
• Darker lenses don’t protect better. While very dark lenses may look cool, they do not necessarily block more UV rays.
• Color doesn’t matter. Some sunglasses come with amber, green or grey lenses. They do not block more sun but can increase contrast, which may be useful for athletes who play sports such as baseball or golf.
• Polarized lenses cut glare, not UV. Polarization reduces glare coming off reflective surfaces like water or pavement. This does not offer more protection from the sun, but can make activities like driving or being on the water safer or more enjoyable.
• Cost shouldn’t be a factor. Sunglasses don’t have to cost a lot of money to work well. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective as pricier options.

“When shopping for sunglasses, some people concentrate on appearance rather than sun protection,” said ophthalmologist Brenda Pagán-Durán, M.D., a clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “That’s why I always recommend they check for a tag or sticker that verifies the lenses block 100 percent UV rays. It’s a small step, but it really can help protect your eyes from the risk of serious conditions that can affect your vision and eye health.”

Source: The American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org). Learn more about how to protect your eyes from the sun at the Academy’s public information website,www.geteyesmart.org.