No sunny day outfit is complete without a bathing suit, your favorite baseball cap, and a snazzy pair of sunglasses. Everyone should get sunglasses before they head outdoors for the day. They’re not just a fun, classic accessory—they also keep your eyes comfortable and protect them from lasting damage. Read on to discover how to keep your eyes safe and comfortable when you’re out having fun in the sun!
Why Get Sunglasses?
Many of us are aware of the harmful impact that the sun’s UV radiation can cause to our skin. But exposure to bright ultraviolet rays can cause cataracts and eye strain, as well as more serious conditions like photokeratitis, which is essentially a sunburn across the surface of your eye. Although sunlight can reduce the risk of myopia, it can also cause cancer of the eyelids and the skin. If you get sunglasses that fit well, they will protect not only your eyes, but also the sensitive skin nearby.
In addition, Optometrists are beginning to suspect that the blue and violet range of the solar spectrum might play a role in the advancement of macular degeneration. While further research has yet to be done, individuals whose skin is highly sensitive to sunburns should be cautious about exposing their eyes to the sun.
While wearing a wide-brimmed hat can help to block out this dangerous radiation, it does not provide completely adequate protection from the sun. Sunglasses are like sunscreen for your eyes. So if you never leave the house without lathering up, why leave your eyes unprotected from the sun?
The Comfort Factor
Sunglasses also shield your eyes from brightness and glare, keeping you safe and comfortable on those long summer days. Squinting into the sun all day can give you painful, watery eyes that make it difficult to drive, read or play outdoor sports like golf or soccer. And spending just a few hours outside in the bright afternoon sun can impair your eyes’ natural ability to adjust to darker surroundings.
Polarized sunglasses provide some of the best protection against UV rays, but they can also make it difficult to play sports or drive. If you’re planning to be more active, be sure to find a pair of sunglasses that blocks at least 99 percent of ultraviolet A and B rays. Special UV lens coatings can also provide an extra layer of protection.
When you get sunglasses, make sure that they are properly fitted to your face so that they completely cover the skin around your eyes. This will keep your eyes safe, healthy, and prepared for many more years of outdoor adventures!
Come In And See
Buying your sunglasses from an Optometrist’s office is the best way to ensure that you’re getting a well-made, reliable product. Dr. Barry Leonard has a variety of fashionable frames and quality lenses to choose from. We can also measure and fit your new shades so that your eyes are completely protected and perfectly comfortable. If you’d like to get sunglasses that fit and look great, come in and check out our selection! Just call the office at 818-891-6711 or make an appointment online!
