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Sun protection and Safety for your Eyes

Protectiong your eyes from untraviolet light is extreemly important to the health and safety of your eyes.  UV exposure damages your eyes and contributes to the development of cataracts.  Technically ultraviolet (UV) light is electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light, but longer than x-rays.   Even though you cannot see UV light, it is very severe to the safety of your eyes.   Thus wearing sunglasses with UV protection when you are outside during the day is critical.  UV light does go through clouds.  Therefore, it is important to wear sunglasses even if it is a cloudy day.

When you are selecting sunglasses, review the product label for UV protection details .  You want sunglasses that block at least 99 % of UVB rays and at least 95 % of UVA rays.   UVA and UVB refer to long and medium wavelengths of ultra violet light.  When it comes to purchasing your next sunglasses, make sure to look out for glasses that block but UVA and UVB.   Do not select sunglasses that are tagged “cosmetic” and those that are missing any details on UV protection.

Different sunglass lenses, tints, and coatings will be beneficial depending on the intended use. Lens materials also serve different purposes.   Again, though the most important criteria for sun protection is to have plenty UV protection in your sunglasses.

Blue block lenses are typically yellow or orange.  These lenses are for low light conditions and make distant objects easier to see.  Check the UV protection.  Not all blue blocking lenses have satisfactory UV protection.

Polarized lenses reduce glare.  Polarized lenses also do not necessarily have UV protection.  Thus, make sure the polarized lens are treated with a UV coating. 

 Photochromic lenses are clear lenses that react with UV and sustain a tint effect based on the quantity of UV present.   Photochromic lenses reduce glare and help maintain clarity.  These lenses may take time to adjust to different light conditions.   Once again, check the UV protection as not all photochromic lenses offer adequate UV protection.

Mirror-coated lenses help block visible light, but they also do not necessarily block UV radiation.  I know I sound like a broken record but again check the label to make sure you have the correct UV sun protection.

Polycarbonate lenses are an excellent option when you consider theoverallsafety of your eyes.  Polycarbonate lenses are resilient to breaking.  Thus, they offer greater protection than regular glasses in the event of any impact to the lenses.  Regular glass and plastic eyeglass lens materials can shatter upon fierce contact.  This can cause serious injuries to your eyes and face.  Polycarbonate lenses are not brittle and are much more resilient to breaking.  The good news is that polycarbonate lenses also provide adequate protection from UV radiation.  These lens offer sun protection for your eyes and are safer in particular if you are involved in sports.  Thus, sunglasses with polycarbonate lenses are an excellent choice for you and your family. 

Thank-you for reading this article by Carolyn Ann.  Visit us at safetysmartblog.com.

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