Protecting your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays is essential for overall eye health. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays aren’t only damaging to the skin, but they can also damage the lens, cornea, and retina.
Exposure to the sun may cause:
- Cataracts.
- Macular degeneration.
- Sunburn on your cornea (photokeratitis).
Sunglasses are an excellent way to protect your eyes, but with so many options, it’s hard to know which ones to choose.
How Do I Know How to Choose Sunglasses?
Scott Drexler, OD, of the UPMC Vision Institute, explains the difference between some common kinds of sunglasses and gives his recommendations for how to choose sunglasses.
Considerations when choosing sunglasses
When selecting sunglasses, consider several factors to ensure you get the best protection and style for your needs.
- Think about how you use the sunglasses most. This might involve water sports, outdoor activities, driving, or general use.
- If you’re using them for outdoor activities and driving, you may want to consider sunglasses that protect against glare.
- Look for larger lenses with wide temples to provide the broadest protection.
“The right sunglasses are a combination of form and function that can both protect your eyes and enhance your performance,” Dr. Drexler says. “The key to picking the right sunglasses for you is to look at your specific activities and select the right lens color and type to provide the maximum benefit.”
Additionally, a trusted brand is usually the best choice, he says. Cheap or no-name options may not provide adequate protection.
What Is UV radiation?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun. The two types, based on wavelength, are:
- UVA — These rays have the longest wavelengths and can penetrate deep into the skin, contributing to aging and long-term eye damage.
- UVB — These rays have shorter wavelengths and are primarily responsible for sunburn. They can also cause significant damage to the eyes.
What is a good UV rating for sunglasses?
A good UV rating for sunglasses is 99% or more UV light protection, often called 400-nanometer protection. This rating ensures that the lenses block UVA and UVB rays, providing comprehensive eye protection.
What’s the Best Lens Color for Sunglasses?
The color of the lens matters more for color perception than it does for protection from UV radiation. UV protection is a clear coating, meaning darker lenses aren’t always more effective.
- Brown — An option for general wear and driving. Brown lenses minimize color distortion. The dark color also helps reduce overall brightness, so you’ll squint less.
- Gray — Gray lenses reduce brightness without distorting colors. They’re best for general wear and driving in bright light conditions.
- Rose — Seeing the world through colored glasses may make everything appear brighter. But it can make differentiating colors difficult, especially while driving. Rose-colored lenses are a good option while on the water, though.
- Yellow or amber — Yellow lenses block blue light and increase contrast. The downside is that they distort colors and make things bright and sharp. They’re not ideal for driving when the sun’s out, but yellow or amber lenses are suitable for hitting the ski slopes or when it’s overcast or dim.
What Are Polarized Lenses?
Polarized lenses include a special layer of protection against glare. These lenses are most popular with people who spend a lot of time in the water, but they’re also a good choice for everyday sunglasses. Skiers, golfers, drivers, and post-surgery cataract patients often wear these glasses.
Polarized lenses reduce glare, increase visibility, and provide clearer vision. However, polarization may make viewing electronics such as phones and GPS devices more difficult. That polarization doesn’t directly relate to UV protection is important to note.
Does Price Matter?
The cost of your sunglasses isn’t necessarily a gauge of better lenses. Inexpensive lenses are often lower in quality because manufacturers use molds to make them.
Molds make guaranteeing consistent protection difficult. However, more expensive lenses don’t guarantee protection. It’s often the case that you’re paying for the designer’s name.
How Do I Find Good-looking Sunglasses?
Finding good-looking sunglasses involves balancing style with functionality.
Here are some tips to consider:
- Brand and quality — Investing in well-known brands can offer assurance in quality and style, but independent brands are more affordable.
- Frame materials — Metal frames are sleek and modern and often adjustable for a better fit. Plastic frames offer a bolder look. Wooden frames are eco-friendly and unique, great for a natural aesthetic.
- Hair color — Light or pastel-colored frames can be very flattering for blond hair. Bold colors like black or red complement dark hair. Green and tortoiseshells look good with red hair.
- Lifestyle considerations — People with active lifestyles should look for durable, lightweight frames designed for sports or outdoor activities. For professional settings, choose classic, sophisticated styles like aviators or wayfarers in neutral colors.
- Skin tones — Warm skin tones work well with gold, brown, and tortoiseshell frames, while silver, black, gray, and blue flatter cooler skin tones.
Here are some additional tips:
- Consider the occasion — Choose different pairs, such as sporty designs for outdoor activities and chic, stylish frames for social events.
- Decide on trendy versus timeless — Decide if you want something trendy or a pair that will remain stylish for years.
- Seek advice — Ask friends, family, or even sales associates for their opinions.
- Try different styles — Try on various styles to see what suits you best. Classic styles like aviators and wayfarers are timeless and versatile.
How Do I Match My Face Shape for Sunglasses?
Matching your face shape to the right sunglasses can enhance your appearance. Here’s a quick guide:
- Heart-shaped faces — Frames that are wider at the top and narrower at the bottom help balance the face.
- Oval faces — Most frame shapes work well; experiment with different styles.
- Round faces — Angular frames like square or rectangular shapes add definition.
- Square faces — Round or oval frames soften strong jawlines.
Choosing the right sunglasses involves considering UV protection, lens type, frame style, and how well they complement your face shape. By focusing on these factors, you can find sunglasses that protect your eyes and enhance your style.
For more information on choosing the right sunglasses, visit UPMC Vision Institute.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .