Sunglasses a shield for the eyes

SATURDAY, July 20, 2019 (HealthDay News) – Sunglbades must be more than fashion accessories, advises an eye expert.

"Think of sunglbades as a sunscreen for your eyes," said Dr. Dianna Seldomridge, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

"Your eyes need protection from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, just like your skin," she explained. "Make sure your eyes are protected year-round, harmful UV rays are present even in cloudy weather."

You should choose sunglbades that block between 99% and 100% of the UVA and UVB rays of the sun. You might be confused by the labels stating that the sunglbades offer 100% protection against UVA / UVB rays, while others offer 100% protection to 400 UV rays. Both will block 100% harmful rays of the sun, announced the academy in a press release.

If you're skeptical about the UV protection label on sunglbades, bring them to an optics store or to an ophthalmologist's office, suggested Seldomridge. Most have a UV light meter that can check the UV blocking ability of sunglbades.

Consider buying oversized or wraparound sunglbades. The more they cover, the better they protect your eyes, "she said.

Important Note: Dark lenses do not block more UV light than lighter lenses.

And you do not have to shell out a lot of money to get sunglbades that protect your eyes, Seldomridge said. The cheaper ones labeled as 100% UV blocking can be just as effective as those that cost more.

Think of polarized lenses, which reduce the glare of reflective surfaces (such as water or roadways). This does not provide more protection from the sun but can make activities like driving or being on the water safer or more enjoyable.

Do not forget the sunglbades for your children, advised Seldomridge. Their eyes are just as sensitive to the harmful rays of the sun as yours, and it's a good idea to get them used to wearing sunglbades from a very young age.

More information

The Skin Cancer Foundation has more to do with eye and sun safety.