When it’s bright and sunny outside, what’s the first thing you grab before you leave the house? Chances are that it’s your favourite pair of sunglasses. They look stylish and shield your eyes from the bright light, but did you know that sunglasses also support healthy vision?

The benefits aren’t limited to summertime alone. Whether you’re going skiing at Blue Mountain in winter or enjoying an autumn stroll along the Niagara Escarpment, you can count on clear and sunny days when your eyes need that extra degree of protection.

How Dangerous is UV Light for Your Vision?

The Canadian Association of Optometrists has warned that UV light can cause serious eye damage. Here are some things you need to know about UV exposure:

• UV levels are greater when the sun is higher in the sky. This usually occurs between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
• UV exposure occurs more around reflective surfaces. For example, when UV rays reflect off of snow, your UV exposure doubles.

According to the American Optometric Association, exposure to high amounts of UV radiation during a brief period of time can cause a painful condition called photokeratitis. In addition, the longer your eyes are exposed, the greater your possible risk of developing eye problems like cataracts or macular degeneration later on. Therefore, whenever you intend to spend time outdoors, wear a pair of quality sunglasses that offer the UV protection you need.

How Do Sunglasses Protect Your Vision?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), too much exposure to UV-A and UV-B rays can affect your eye health. In addition to helping you see easier in bright sunlight, sunglasses help block UV rays and prevent them from reaching your eyes.

There are different types of sun lenses available to offer the protection you need. Two especially popular options are outlined below.

Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses shield your eyes from glare as well as UV light. They have a special filter applied that blocks some of the light passing through each lens. Since the openings are vertical (similar to window blinds), any horizontal light waves, such as glare bouncing off snow, is blocked out.

Tinted Lenses

Sunglasses with tinted lenses provide both stylish and effective eye protection during sunny weather. You can even buy lenses with a graduated tint, meaning that they’re darker at the top and get increasingly lighter at the bottom. Not only do they look fashionable, but they also improve your vision by:

• Protecting your eyes from UV light
• Help your vision maintain clarity and contrast

If you really want to up your fashion game, add a mirror finish. It looks great and does an excellent job of glare reduction.

Get Your Next Pair of Sunglasses at UOptical!

At UOptical, we make sure that clear vision is always in style! We will help you select the right sunglasses for your face shape, personal style, and prescription.  To book an eye exam and see what frames we have available, call (416) 292-0075.

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