An attractive pair of sunglasses lets you spice up any outfit—but these accessories are about more than just fashion. The lenses provide critical protection for your eyes, so they stay healthy. The experts at Mowen Opticians in Waynesboro, VA, know that you want your new shades to look good and protect your vision, so they offer the following tips to help you find the perfect pair.

Look for UV Protection

Though its wavelengths are too short to be visible, the ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun is all around you during daylight hours. Both UVA and UVB radiation are harmful to your eyes, so it’s important to choose sunglasses that block both types. Not all pairs offer 100% protection, so ask an optician to help you find lenses that will keep your eyes safe.

Choose Styles With Maximum Coverage

Sunglasses do more than just keep your eyes safe from excess UV exposure. They also protect the delicate skin on this part of your face. Your skin is thinnest on your eyelids and undereye area, making it more vulnerable to cancer and sun damage. Oversized and wraparound styles that cover the entire eye area are the most effective at protecting this sensitive skin.

Consider Color

Tinted lenses aren’t just a style statement. Although every shade offers the same level of UV protection, they can change the way you see color. For instance, gray lenses are considered neutral because they don’t distort the wearer’s perception. People who have color detection issues may find it easier to see through brown lenses because they amplify contrast. Orange or yellow lenses offer the most protection from blue light, making them ideal for athletes.

Invest in Polarization

Sunglasses with polarized lenses minimize glare from reflective surfaces, so they are a great option for people who spend a lot of time outdoors. The polarization process doesn’t offer extra protection from the sun’s rays, but the treatment can make activities like driving or boating much easier on the eyes.

The perfect pair of sunglasses will keep your eyes safe year-round, whether you’re blocking the sun’s rays during the summer or reducing glare on a snowy day. Mowen Opticians carries an extensive collection of fashion eyewear from top brands like Oakley® and Ray Ban®, so you can get a pair that is both stylish and protective. Visit their website or call (540) 943-3113 to learn more about their current selection.