Like your prescription glasses, sunglasses can be made with any lens preference with added UV-blocking properties. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can play a role in a number of eye ailments, including cataracts, cancer, and growths on the ocular surface. The sun can detrimental to your eyes, and skipping protection can be dangerous. If sunglasses are coated properly they should block 100 percent of UV rays. The shade or intensity of darkness of the lens is not indicative the UV protections sunglasses offer.
Polarized lenses help reduce glare by filtering light entering the lens. It is helpful to get your lens polarized if you spend a lot of time where light is highly reflected off surfaces such as snow, water, or sand.
The disadvantage of polarized lenses is the failure to view LCD or LED screens or displays as the lenses will filter out the backlight of these devices.
Are prescription sunglasses for you?
- Evaluate how much time you are spending outdoors or driving during the day and the value of visual accuracy during these excursions.
- If you are noticing regularly replacing clip-on or magnetic sun shields, the cost of new prescription sunglasses might be cost effective.
- Speak with your eye care professional at AO Eyecare to see if prescription sunglasses match your vision demands and lifestyle. They can help determine if prescriptions sunglasses are a suitable option for you.