As the leading optometrist on Oahu, the Aiea office of Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates takes care to answer every question their patients have. Oftentimes, patients ask about the differences between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses.

To help you better understand your choices when it comes to sunglasses, the office of Honolulu’s premier optometrist has compiled a guide to the polarized and non-polarized versions:

Non-Polarized Sunglasses

Non-polarized sunglasses feature ordinary lenses that do not have any way to block the horizontal glare of the sun that reflects off of flat surfaces. Horizontal glare should not be confused with UVA and UVB rays. While most of today’s sunglasses offer UV protection, only polarized lenses combat horizontal glare.

UV protection is critically important in both types of sunglasses because when the eye views something through a darkened lens, the pupil widens. This means there is a greater risk of sun damage occurring, so be sure to ask your optometrist about UV protection when you’re trying on sunglasses. You shouldn’t have any trouble, however, because even fashion eyewear offers UV protection nowadays.

Polarized Sunglasses

If you work outside, are an outdoor enthusiast, or spend a lot of time around the water, an optometrist will likely recommend polarized lenses for you. Their glare-reducing capabilities are especially handy for anglers and other people who spend a lot of time near the water because they make it easier to see beneath the water’s surface.

That being said, polarized sunglasses may not be for everyone.  Their special lenses can make it difficult to see LCD screens, including those found on phones and GPS devices. On the other hand, polarized lenses provide a special advantage because they offer complete protection against UVA and UVB rays.

If you would like to learn more about the differences between non-polarized and polarized sunglasses, schedule an appointment to pick out your perfect pair of eyewear with the best optometrist in Aiea: Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates. Call (808) 487-5500 to set up a visit or check out their website for more information.