Sunglasses not only look cool, but they also serve an important purpose from an eye care perspective. Much like you must protect your skin against harmful UV rays, you must also protect your eyes against sun damage. This guide explains why sunglasses are essential, as well as how you can find the best pair. 

How Do Sunglasses Protect Against UV Rays?

Sunglasses work by allowing visible light through the lenses while repelling UVA and UVB rays, which are known to cause painful sunburns and more serious health conditions. Much like the skin, eyes can become sunburned, which is a condition known as photokeratitis. Sunburned eyes experience eye pain, redness, blurred vision, and the sensation of dirt or grit on the eyes. 

Sun exposure can also increase your risk of more serious eye conditions. For example, excess sun exposure to the eyes is linked to a higher risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, both of which can lead to loss of vision. Sun exposure also increases your risk of developing cancer of the eyelids. 

How Can I Find the Best Sunglasses for the Health of My Eyes?

Sunglasses come with many options and features. While you can also consult with your eye care specialist for more info, here are a few common options to choose from:

• UV Coating: Think of it as sunblock for your glasses; UV coating wards off damaging UV rays to keep your eyes healthy. 
• Polarized Lenses: While these lenses won’t have an impact on UV light, they do reduce glare, which can be dangerous when driving or playing sports on a sunny day.
• Mirror Coating: Mirror coating reflects light away from your eyes to protect your vision. This option protects against sun glare as well as UV rays.

Some sunglasses combine all three options. Also, some people opt to have their prescription glasses treated to ward off UV rays and protect against sun glare simultaneously.

If you’re in search of stylish and effective sunglasses, look no further than Brunswick Optical | Matthew D. Grucella O.D. in Ohio. Along with comprehensive vision exams, these eye care professionals also offer a wide selection of designer frames. They’ll review lens and coating options with you and ensure that your new sunglasses look and feel amazing. Call (330) 741-3407 to schedule an eye exam, or like them on Facebook for more eye care news and updates.