6 Best Polarized Sunglasses Which Are Never Out Of Fashion You Can Buy In Amazon
What you will learn from this post:
Characteristics of a good polarized sunglasses
6 polarized sunglasses never out of fashion
Are cheap sunglasses bad for your eyes?
Are there benefits to wearing sunglasses atnig ht?
Do babies need sunglasses?
How do you keep sunglasses from slipping down your nose?
How to pick sunglasses for your face shape
What are the best sunglasses for driving?
What are the best sunglasses for fishing?
What are the best sunglasses for golf?
What are the best sunglasses for skiing and snowboarding?
Which color sunglasses should I get
Consumer Guide To Sunglasses
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation And Your Eyes
Polarized Sunglasses
How Do Polarized Lenses Work?
Polarized Sunglasses: Other Considerations
I. Characteristic of good polarized sunglasses: 8 Things and characteristics to consider when buying your polarized sunglasses.
Watch this The Science Asylum about "how polarized sunglasses works"
1. Make sure it is 100 UV Protection
The single most important thing to look for when buying sunglasses to protect your eyes is a sticker or tag indicating that they block 100 percent of UV rays. However, fewer than half of people buying sunglasses bother to check whether the lenses protect the eyes from ultraviolet light, according to the Academy's 2014 national sun safety survey.
Look for sunglasses rated as blocking 99 to 100 percent of UV rays. This includes both the rays coming from the sun and those reflecting off surfaces. You may not realize it, but reflected rays can cause just as much damage, especially those bouncing off the water. Sunglasses may be labeled with the percentage of rays they block or as “UV 400,” indicating the highest level of protection.
2. The Bigger is the Sunglasses, the better it protects
The more coverage from sunglasses, the less sun damage inflicted on the eyes. Consider buying oversized glasses or wraparound-style glasses, which help cut down on UV entering the eye from the side.
3. Darker lenses doesn´t mean it protects better
While very dark lenses may look cool, they do not necessarily block more UV rays. Different lens tints filter light differently. Grey-tinted lenses reduce brightness without color distortion, making them good for driving. Amber and brown lenses also reduce blue light and glare. Gradient lenses, which are darker at the top and fade to a lighter tint, work much like your car’s windshield, blocking sunlight from above without darkening your view too much.
4. The Lenses Color doesn't really matter, it is just a matter of taste.
Some sunglasses come with amber, green or gray lenses. They do not block more sun but can increase contrast, which may be useful for athletes who play sports such as baseball or golf.
5. Keep in mind Polarized lenses cut glare, not UV
Polarization reduces glare coming off reflective surfaces like water or pavement. This does not offer more protection from the sun, but can make activities like driving or being on the water safer or more enjoyable. It should be clear by now that UV protection is the number one function of your sunglasses, but it is important to know what to look for when you’re shopping for a pair. Make sure your sunglasses offer 100 percent UV protection. In addition, you can take even better care of your eyes by choosing sunglasses with polarized and anti-reflective lenses to reduce glare.
6. The cost means nothing; it is a question of ...what?
Sunglasses don't have to cost a lot of money to work well. Less expensive pairs marked as 100 percent UV-blocking can be just as effective as pricier options.
Your may also consider those things depending on the buyers
7. The fit matter but it is not to be considered as important
The way your sunglasses fit not only makes them look better, but it can also affect how effective they are at blocking out harmful UV rays. A well-fitting pair of sunglasses should fit snugly on your head without being too tight or uncomfortable. The center of the lens should line up with the center of your eye, and the frames shouldn’t be so wide that they let UV rays in on the sides. This can be just as harmful to your eyes as direct sunlight.
8. Take care of your face with the shape
There are several shapes of sunglasses available, including the more popular aviator, wayfarer, cat eye, and wraparound styles. For the most part, the shape you choose is an aesthetic choice. Find a shape that you like and that looks good with your facial features. For certain activities, however, the shape of your sunglasses can help protect your eyes. Athletic sunglasses, for instance, typically have a slim wrap design that fits snugly against your face and blocks UV rays from all angles. This reduces risks as you play.
II. 6 polarized sunglasses never out of fashion
These are the 6 sunglasses type which will never be out of fashion
This one is:
100% Polarized with test card, Anti UVA, prevent UVB
Frame material: Aluminium
Lens width: 65 mm
Lens height: 50mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses
Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses
#2. Classic Squared Men's Polarized sunglasses
100% Polarized, Anti UVA, prevent UVB
Lens width: 48 millimetres
Lens height: 54mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses
Mirrored, Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses
#3. Unisex Modern Fashion Mirrored Polarized Sunglasses
100% Polarized, Full protection against harmful UVA, prevent UVB, 100% UV400, Fashion, lightweight for superior comfort.
Lens width: 50 millimetres
Lens height: 45 mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses
Mirrored, Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses
100% Polarized, Full protection against harmful UVA, prevent UVB, 100% UV400, Fashion
Lens materials: Polaroid, Mirrored, Polaroid HD polarized lenses
Frame materials: 100% Top quality aluminum and magnesium, Environmental protection silicone material
Lens width: 57 mm
Lens height: 45 mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses
Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses, One size that fits all faces.
It is also available in blue cristal.
100% Polarized, Anti UVA, prevent UVB, Full protection against harmful UVA, prevent UVB, 100% UV400, Fashion
Lens width: 6.5 centimetres
Lens height: 50mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses, 100% Polarized WIth test card
Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses
100% Polarized, Anti UVA, prevent UVB, Full protection against harmful UVA, prevent UVB, 100% UV400, Fashion
Lens width: 6.5 centimetres
Lens height: 52 mm millimetres
Advanced resin HD polarizing lenses, 100% Polarized WIth test card
Polarized Polaroid Mirrored Sunglasses
If the sun doesn't bother my eyes, do I still need to wear sunglasses?
Yes. The sun has damaging UV rays that can cause photokeratitis, pingueculae and permanent retinal damage.
What exactly are UV rays?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are located just past the violet portion of the visible light spectrum; sunlight is the main source.
UV light is broken into three different types: UVA, UVB and UVC.
UVA has longer wavelengths and passes through glass easily; experts disagree about whether or not UVA damages the eyes.
UVB rays are the most dangerous, making sunglasses and sunscreen a must; they don't go through glass.
UVC rays do not reach the Earth because its atmosphere blocks them.
When do UV rays affect my eyes?
The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., but that's not the only time UV rays can affect your eyes.
Also, most people think that they're at risk only when they're outside on a sunny day, but UV light can go right through clouds, so it doesn't matter if the sky is overcast.
Glare and reflections can give you trouble too, so have your sunglasses ready if you'll be around snow, water or sand, or if you'll be driving (windshields are a big glare source).
Sunlamps, tanning beds, photosensitizing drugs, high altitudes and proximity to the equator also put you at greater risk.
Can certain medical problems increase my risk for damage from UV rays?
Yes. People with cataracts (and those who have had cataract surgery), macular degenerationor retinal dystrophies should be extra careful. Read more about these conditions in our Eye Problems and Diseases section.
What are my options to prevent UV damage to my eyes?
You must wear sunglasses to prevent damage to your eyes. While some contact lenses provide UV protection, they don't cover your whole eye, so you still need sunglasses.
Look for sunglasses that protect you from 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB light. This includes those labeled as "UV 400," which blocks all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. (This covers all of UVA and UVB rays.)
Also, you may want to consider wraparound sunglasses to prevent harmful UV rays from entering around the frame.
What are the different kinds of lenses that are available?
With so many lenses available, it's a good idea to ask a professional optician for help when choosing sunglasses. Different tints can help you see better in certain conditions, and a knowledgeable optician can help you choose sunglass tints that are best suited for your needs.
Blue-blockers block blue light and sometimes feature amber lenses. Some evidence indicates blue light is harmful and could increase risk of eye damage from diseases such as macular degeneration. These lenses are popular among skiers, hunters, boaters and pilots who use them to heighten contrast.
Both polarized lenses and anti-reflective coating cut reflected glare. Polarized lenses in particular are popular with those who play water and snow sports. Anti-reflecting coatingsreduce glare caused by light reflecting off the back surface of your sunglass lenses.
Mirror-coated lenses limit the amount of light entering your eyes, so you're more comfortable.
Mirror coatings (also called flash coatings) are highly reflective coatings applied to the front surface of sunglass lenses to reduce the amount of light entering the eye. This makes them especially beneficial for activities in very bright conditions, such as snow skiing on a sunny day.
The mirrored sunglasses associated with state troopers are one example of a flash coating. The technology has advanced, however, so that today's choices in mirror coatings include all colors of the rainbow, as well as silver, gold and copper metallic colors. Hot pink, blue — almost any color is available.
Choosing the color of a mirror coating is a purely cosmetic decision. The color of the mirror coating you choose does not influence your color perception — it's the color of the tinted lens under the coating that determines how mirrored sunglasses affect your color vision.
Gradient lenses are tinted from the top down, so that the top of the lens is darkest. These lenses are good for driving, because they shield your eyes from overhead sunlight and allow more light through the bottom half of the lens so you can see your dashboard clearly.
RECYCLING SUNGLASSES
Don't throw out your used sunglasses!
Needy people can use your old eyewear, whether it's sunglasses, reading glasses or prescription eyeglasses.
Double gradient refers to lenses that are also tinted from the bottom up: The top and bottom are darkest and the middle has a lighter tint. Double gradient lenses are a great choice if you want sunglasses that aren't too dark, but shield your eyes well against bright overhead sunlight and light reflecting off sand, water and other reflective surfaces at your feet.
Photochromic lenses adjust their level of darkness based on the amount of UV light they're exposed to. Read more about photochromic lenses.
Multifocal sunglasses. Over age 40 and experiencing presbyopia? Not a problem. Virtually any type of sunglasses can be made with progressive lenses, bifocals or trifocals.
Do I need to worry about infrared rays?
Infrared rays are located just past the red portion of the visible light spectrum. Though infrared radiation produces heat, most experts agree that the sun's infrared rays do not pose a danger to the eyes.
Which lens color is the best?
Lens color is a personal choice and doesn't affect how well sunglass lenses protect your eyes from UV light. Gray and brown are popular because they distort color perception the least.
Athletes often prefer other tints for their contrast-enhancing properties. For example, yellow lenses are popular with skiers and target shooters because they work well in low light, reduce haze and increase contrast for a sharper image.
Are impact-resistant lenses necessary?
The FDA requires all sunglass lenses to be impact-resistant. If you play sports or wear sunglasses on the job, you might want to consider ultra-impact-resistant polycarbonatelenses for even greater eye safety.
Do darker sunglass lenses provide more UV protection than lighter lens tints?
Darker sunglasses decrease the amount of visible light that passes through the lenses compared with lighter lens tints, but they don't necessarily provide greater protection from UV rays (which are invisible). For adequate protection, have your optician make sure your sunglasses block 100 percent UV, regardless of the color of the lenses.
Children don't need sunglasses, do they?
Children's sunglasses are essential. Children are at particular risk because they're in the sun much more than adults, and their eyes are more sensitive as well. UV damage is cumulative over a person's lifetime, which means you should begin protecting your child's eyes as soon as possible.
Most parents would not allow their children to go outside without shoes, yet many seem unaware of the need to protect their children's eyes.
I wear glasses. What options are available to me?
You can buy prescription sunglasses or glasses with photochromic lenses (which change from clear to dark) from your eye care practitioner. Clip-ons may be a less expensive option, and can be bought at the same time as your regular eyeglasses to perfectly match the frames.
Some eyeglass frames include sun lenses that magnetically attach to the frame. This gives you the convenience of clip-on sunglasses with less risk of scratching your prescription lenses.
Can sunglasses designed for specific sports really make a difference?
Yes. Sports eyewear in general tends to be safer than regular sunglasses because the lenses and frames are made of special materials that are unlikely to shatter if struck and can give you the benefits of both sunglasses and protective eyewear.
Also, certain lens colors in performance sunglasses can enhance your vision for certain sports; brown, for example, is popular with golfers because it provides nice contrast on those very green golf courses.
Are Cheap Sunglasses Bad For Your Eyes?
High-quality sunglasses usually are expensive. So why not buy cheap sunglasses that look almost the same? Or are cheap sunglasses bad for your eyes?
Key factors when buying sunglasses include:
UV Protection. It's important that your sunglasses provide 100 percent UV protection. This will shield your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays that can cause long-term eye damage and even permanent vision loss. Don't assume cheap sunglasses provide this level of protection, even if a sticker on the lenses says, "blocks UV."
Optical Quality. Cheap sunglasses might seem to provide clear vision when you first try them on; but after you wear them a full day, you might experience eye strain if the optical quality of the lenses is less than it should be. This can be due to the inexpensive type of lens material used and possible warpage of the lenses in the frame.
Impact Resistance. Sometimes, lenses in cheap sunglasses don't provide the level of impact resistance that meets U.S. standards. Don't take chances. For the best impact resistance, choose lightweight polycarbonate lenses.
The most important reasons to wear sunglasses are to shield your eyes from damaging rays from the sun, to enable you to see clearly and comfortably in conditions ranging from bright sunlight to overcast haze, and to protect your eyes from injury or irritation.
Don't fall for offers of cheap sunglasses unless you can verify the lenses provide the UV protection, optical quality and durability found in more expensive sunglasses.
A skilled optician can help you determine the quality of your current sunglasses and choose quality sunglasses that provide the clarity, comfort and eye protection you need.
Are There Benefits To Wearing Sunglasses At Night?
Visual acuity is reduced at night because a less-than-optimal amount of light reaches the retina in low-light conditions.
Wearing sunglasses at night further reduces the amount of light reaching the retina, and therefore is not recommended under any circumstances — especially when driving at night — because it will worsen darkness-related visual impairment.
Even sunglasses with yellow or light amber lenses that are promoted as a way to enhance contrast during daylight will work against you at night.
There's just one exception...
If you live in Alaska or somewhere near the North or South Pole when there's nonstop sunlight near the summer solstice, then go ahead and wear your sunglasses at night during this "midnight sun" time of year.
Do Babies Need Sunglasses?
Are "baby sunglasses" just a fad or do babies really need sunglasses?
Yes, you definitely should protect your infant's or young child's eyes from the sun with baby sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection.
Most long-term damage to our eyes from UV rays is related to cumulative exposure — how much our eyes are exposed to sunlight and other UV radiation sources over the course of our lifetime. So beginning to shield your child's eyes from UV as early as possible is a good idea.
In fact, the lens inside a baby's eye allows more solar radiation to pass through it and reach the retina than the lens of an adult eye. Making sure your baby wears sunglasses that block 100 percent UV and also protect her eyes from high-energy visible blue light may help reduce the risk of macular degeneration later in life that could cause permanent vision loss.
Also, baby sunglasses should include lightweight polycarbonate lenses for comfort and superior impact resistance.
To protect your child's delicate facial skin from the sun, it's a good idea to also purchase a sun hat with a wide brim for your baby to wear outdoors.
It's certainly better to be safe than sorry when it comes to eye health — even if the payoff of purchasing baby sunglasses for your child may not be apparent for decades to come.
Besides, baby sunglasses are just so darn cute!
Be sure to visit a knowledgeable optician who has experience fitting sunglasses on babies and small children for the best possible comfort and sizing
Are Cheap Sunglasses Bad For Your Eyes?
High-quality sunglasses usually are expensive. So why not buy cheap sunglasses that look almost the same? Or are cheap sunglasses bad for your eyes?
Key factors when buying sunglasses include:
UV Protection. It's important that your sunglasses provide 100 percent UV protection. This will shield your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays that can cause long-term eye damage and even permanent vision loss. Don't assume cheap sunglasses provide this level of protection, even if a sticker on the lenses says, "blocks UV."
Optical Quality. Cheap sunglasses might seem to provide clear vision when you first try them on; but after you wear them a full day, you might experience eye strain if the optical quality of the lenses is less than it should be. This can be due to the inexpensive type of lens material used and possible warpage of the lenses in the frame.
Impact Resistance. Sometimes, lenses in cheap sunglasses don't provide the level of impact resistance that meets U.S. standards. Don't take chances. For the best impact resistance, choose lightweight polycarbonate lenses.
The most important reasons to wear sunglasses are to shield your eyes from damaging rays from the sun, to enable you to see clearly and comfortably in conditions ranging from bright sunlight to overcast haze, and to protect your eyes from injury or irritation.
Don't fall for offers of cheap sunglasses unless you can verify the lenses provide the UV protection, optical quality and durability found in more expensive sunglasses.
A skilled optician can help you determine the quality of your current sunglasses and choose quality sunglasses that provide the clarity, comfort and eye protection you need.
Which Color Sunglasses Should I Get?
The color and darkness of sunglass lenses do not determine how much UV radiation the lenses block. So the lens color you choose for your sunglasses is simply a matter of personal preference.
Shades of grey and brown are very popular. Mirror coated lenses, which provide additional light reduction in very bright conditions, also are favorites.
Certain sunglass lens colors can be advantageous if you're looking for a performance lens for use during sports or other visually demanding outdoor activities. For example, some colored sunglasses can enhance contrast in specific environments.
Consult with a knowledgeable optician to learn about the best sunglass colors for specific sports. Also, ask about photochromic lenses and polarized sunglasses, which are available in a variety of colors as well.
What Are The Best Sunglasses For Driving?
Visibility and clear, comfortable vision are essential for safe driving.
The best sunglasses for driving should reduce or eliminate glare, especially from light reflecting off the roadway and other flat surfaces — such as the hood of the driver's vehicle and the windshields and other reflective surfaces of other vehicles.
Polarized sunglasses offer the best glare reduction from light reflecting off these and other surfaces and are generally considered to be the best sunglasses for driving.
Other very beneficial features for driving sunglasses include a large, wraparound style that provides a wide, unobstructed field of view, and anti-reflective coating on the backside of the lenses to eliminate glare from sunlight reflecting off the inner surface of the lenses when the sun is behind you when you're driving.
Finally, consider a brown, copper or amber tint for your driving glasses, which will enhance contrast on both sunny and overcast days.
What Are The Best Sunglasses For Fishing?
Bodies of water have a highly reflective surface, and light reflecting off the water makes it nearly impossible to see what's beneath the surface. For this reason, all fishing sunglasses should include polarized lenses.
Polarized sunglasses cut reflections from the surface of the water far better than ordinary sunglasses, and this allows you to see what's under the water. This is particularly helpful when netting a fish or judging the depth of a stream when fly fishing.
In addition to polarized lenses, many anglers prefer brown sunglass lenses because these tints enhance contrast, making fish under the surface of the water even more visible. However, the color of fishing sunglasses is primarily a matter of personal preference.
For bright conditions, mirror coatings are a good idea to further limit light exposure that could cause photokeratitis on a bright sunny day. Also called snow blindness,
photokeratitis is a painful sunburn of the front surface of the eye. You don't have to be skiing or snowboarding on a mountaintop to suffer from photokeratitis — without quality fishing sunglasses that block 100 percent of the sun's UV radiation and reduce glare, you can become snowblind when fishing, too.
What Are The Best Sunglasses For Golf?
There are a number of options for golf sunglasses, and choosing the best sunglasses for golfing is similar to choosing the best clubs to improve your game — advanced technology helps you play your best.
Polarized sunglasses are a popular choice for golf sunglasses because they offer superior glare protection. But some golfers prefer non-polarized lenses because subtle differences in the angle of blades of grass on greens sometimes are more visible without polarization.
Brown, amber and copper-colored sunglass lenses are popular because these tints enhance the contrast of a white golf ball against the sky and the green background of fairways and greens.
Also very important is the lens material and the frame style and shape. Polycarbonate lenses are preferred for two reasons: 1) polycarbonate is one of the lightest sunglass lens materials available; and 2) it is the most impact-resistant lens material for added safety.
Also, anti-reflective coating added to the back surface of the lenses will help reduce glare from light reflecting off the backside of the lenses when the sun is at your back.
Golf sunglasses should have a wide, wraparound style frame that fits closely to the face. This design helps protect the eyes from wind, dust and the spray of fine sand when hitting a bunker shot.
It's essential that the frame of golf sunglasses also is lightweight and fits securely on the face so there's no movement of the sunglasses during an aggressive drive, a delicate putt, and every kind of shot in between.
How Do You Keep Sunglasses From Slipping Down Your Nose?
If your sunglasses are slipping down your nose, often a simple adjustment can help keep them securely in place.
This problem may be due to the temples (the "arms" of the frame that secure the sunglasses to the back of your ears), the bridge (the portion of the frame that rests on the sides of the nose), or both.
The temples of your sunglasses should be long enough so they can be bent to roughly a 45-degree angle where they pass across the top of your ears, with sufficient length so the ends of the temples can be adjusted to be securely aligned with the contours of your head directly behind your ears. (The exception to this is a sunglass frame design where the temples are completely straight and fit securely against your head at a point slightly above and just beyond the ears.)
The bridge of the frame should rest evenly and securely on the sides of the upper part of your nose. If your nose is larger, smaller or flatter than average at this point, a sunglasses frame with adjustable nose pads is very helpful to achieve a secure fit.
You might also consider using a product that has received a lot of social media buzz recently: Nerdwax. This is a beeswax-based blend of natural and certified-organic ingredients, and when you apply Nerdwax to the part of the frame that comes into contact with your nose, it prevents your sunglasses from slipping. You can learn more about Nerdwax by visiting the product's website.
For the most comfortable and secure fit, have a knowledgeable optician evaluate the size and style of your sunglasses and see what can be done to prevent them from slipping down your nose.
What Are The Best Sunglasses For Skiing And Snowboarding?
Since snow is one of the most reflective surfaces, sunglasses for skiing and snowboarding are essential when you are out on the slopes.
For both activities, ski goggles usually are the best choice for comfort, visibility and eye safety. [For help when purchasing ski goggles, read 12 Tips For Buying Ski Goggles.]
If you plan to wear sunglasses in lieu of ski goggles, consider sport sunglasses with a wraparound frame for added protection and to prevent the sun's harmful UV rays from reaching your eyes from the side.
A yellow-orange or rose hue will enhance contrast so you can more easily detect contours in snow on your way down the hills or mountain.
Polarized sunglasses very effectively reduce the "bounce-back" of bright sunlight reflecting off snow and ice, but this same feature may also make it harder to detect icy patches.
Also, mirrored sunglasses help reduce the intensity of sunlight in bright conditions even more than regular tinted lenses.
Keep in mind that snow blindness is a real threat when you are on snow — especially at high altitudes. To decrease your risk of becoming snowblind, make sure your ski goggles or ski sunglasses include lenses that provide 100 percent UV protection.
For the best safety and performance, discuss with your optician the conditions where and when you usually ski or snowboard to choose the best ski goggle and sunglass lenses for your particular needs and preferences.
How To Pick Sunglasses For Your Face Shape.
The shape of your sunglasses — like the shape of your eyeglasses (if you wear them) — should complement the shape of your face. Generally, this is best achieved by choosing a shape that contrasts, not mimics, your face shape.
For example, the best sunglasses for round faces generally will be more angular or rectangular in shape. A sunglass frame with distinct angles and that is noticeably wider than its vertical dimension will make a round face appear thinner and give it additional vertical length.
By comparison, round sunglasses on a round face typically won't be as attractive because they mimic (and therefore reinforce or even exaggerate) the round facial contours.
For a rectangular or square face shape, the opposite is true: round or oval sunglasses usually will look better because they will soften (not exaggerate) the angular contours of the face.
Consult with an experienced optician to learn more about your face shape (there are seven types!) and which sunglasses will be the most complementary so you can look your best.
Are There Benefits To Wearing Sunglasses At Night?
Visual acuity is reduced at night because a less-than-optimal amount of light reaches the retina in low-light conditions.
Wearing sunglasses at night further reduces the amount of light reaching the retina, and therefore is not recommended under any circumstances — especially when driving at night — because it will worsen darkness-related visual impairment.
Even sunglasses with yellow or light amber lenses that are promoted as a way to enhance contrast during daylight will work against you at night.
There's just one exception...
If you live in Alaska or somewhere near the North or South Pole when there's nonstop sunlight near the summer solstice, then go ahead and wear your sunglasses at night during this "midnight sun" time of year!
Consumer Guide To Sunglasses
Sunglasses can prevent sun damage to your eyes, improve your vision and make a unique fashion statement. Learn about the different types of sunglasses, including polarized lenses and the latest sunglass styles, in this series of articles written by experts in eye care.
Designer Sunglasses
If you are looking for designer sunglasses but are unsure which brand name is right for you, be sure to shop at a variety of stores or one shop with a large selection so that you can try on styles from many different lines.
Each designer has a certain image that he or she portrays through clothing and accessories, as well as through advertising and promotions.
Designer and celebrity sunglasses tend to be pricier, and often have more expensive upgrades such as jewels and inlays with unique patterns and designs. Attractive designer logos may be etched or inlaid in high-end frames.
To help you decide which designer or celebrity sunglass style best fits your personal style and budget, here are examples of how top brands are advertised at high-end boutiques, department stores and other outlets:
Calvin Klein. Often found in the economical $50 to $80 range, many Calvin Klein sunglasses feature classic aviator shapes in wire rim or rimless styles.
• Chanel. The Havana (in the $300 range) is one signature Chanel style, available in bold plastic frames with brown gradient colors and matching lenses.
• JLO by Jennifer Lopez. This sunglass collection for trendy women is one of many examples of recent lines launched with branding that uses celebrity names. Some JLO styles are available in the $100 range.
You'll find many other popular designer names in sunglasses such as Jimmy Choo, Balenciaga, Kenneth Cole, John Varvatos, Alexander McQueen, Badgley Mischka, BCBGMaxAzria, Gucci, Dior, Tommy Hilfiger, Hugo Boss, Vera Wang, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Diane von Furstenberg, Fendi, Jil Sander and Valentino.
Most optical shops, department stores and sunglass specialty stores will have promotional materials in the sunglasses section that portray the images of the designers' lines they feature.
You also can question the sales staff about the qualities of each designer sunglass line.
Certainly the true test is in trying on the frames and finding what's right for you. Some lines are more conservative, some are feminine, some are urban and cutting-edge, and some are simply but beautifully designed.
Typically, if you like the clothing styling from a designer you also will like their frames and sunwear. Most designers maintain significant control over the design, pricing and imaging of their sunglasses. Lines are produced under a license with an eyewear company that has great experience and knowledge in manufacturing and distributing eyewear.
The result is a product that is right for that fashion designer and the designer's loyal customers.
Celebrity Sunglass Collections
In addition to famous designers, many celebrities have worked with eyewear manufacturers to create their own brands of sunglasses.
Randy Jackson, Jessica Simpson, Lauren Hutton, Britney Spears, Sophia Loren, Kathy Ireland, Cheryl Tiegs, Sean Combs, Donald Trump, Daisy Fuentes, Joan Collins — and even George Burns and Jerry Garcia — all have or had sunglass lines.
One sunglass collection featuring cat-eye and traditional shapes was designed in cooperation with international actress and singer Thalia. Another collection, which includes blingy rhinestone-adorned eyeglass frames with cute clipon sunlenses, is called "That's So Raven," after the TV show starring Raven Symone.
Many celebrities who have their own line of sunglasses also have branded frame designs for prescription eyeglasses as well.
Each celebrity has an image created through movies, television shows and appearances, modeling, music performances and books he or she has written. The celebity's eyewear typically is consistent with this image.
Some consumers choose to go this route when purchasing sunwear because they can identify better with a celebrity than with fashion designers or their products.
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation And Your Eyes
The UV Index developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) has made many Americans more aware of the risks of sunburn and skin cancer from the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
But did you know UV and other radiation from the sun also can harm your eyes?
Extended exposure to the sun's UV rays has been linked to eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, pingueculae, pterygia and photokeratitis that can cause temporary vision loss.
And new research suggests the sun's high-energy visible (HEV) radiation (also called "blue light") may increase your long-term risk of macular degeneration. People with low blood plasma levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants especially appear at risk of retinal damage from HEV radiation.
Dangers Of Ultraviolet Radiation To Your Eyes
To protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation, sunglasses should block 100 percent of UV rays and also absorb most HEV rays. Frames with a close-fitting wraparound style provide the best protection because they limit how much stray sunlight reaches your eyes from above and beyond the periphery of your sunglass lenses.
ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are higher in energy and do not fall within the realm of visible light, as shown here. In the electromagnetic spectrum, radio waves have the lowest energy, and gamma rays have the highest energy.
While many people refer to ultraviolet radiation as UV light, the term technically is incorrect because you cannot see UV rays.
The three categories of invisible high-energy UV rays are:
UVC rays. These are the highest-energy UV rays and potentially could be the most harmful to your eyes and skin. Fortunately, the atmosphere's ozone layer blocks virtually all UVC rays.
But this also means depletion of the ozone layer potentially could allow high-energy UVC rays to reach the earth's surface and cause serious UV-related health problems. UVC rays have wavelengths of 100-280 nanometer (nm).
UVB rays. These have slightly longer wavelengths (280-315 nm) and lower energy than UVC rays. These rays are filtered partially by the ozone layer, but some still reach the earth's surface.
In low doses, UVB radiation stimulates the production of melanin (a skin pigment), causing the skin to darken, creating a suntan.
But in higher doses, UVB rays cause sunburn that increases the risk of skin cancer. UVB rays also cause skin discolorations, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging of the skin.
UVA rays. These are closer to visible light rays and have lower energy than UVB and UVC rays. But UVA rays can pass through the cornea and reach the lens and retina inside the eye.
UV INDEX
This UV Index devised by the Environmental Protection Agency and National Weather Service provides a color-coded warning system to alert people to the dangers of being outdoors on certain days.
Overexposure to UVA radiation has been linked to the development of certain types of cataracts, and research suggests UVA rays may play a role in development of macular degeneration.
Various eye problems have been associated with overexposure to UV radiation.
As an example, UVB rays are thought to help cause pingueculae and pterygia. These growths on the eye's surface can become unsightly and cause corneal problems as well as distorted vision.
In high short-term doses, UVB rays also can cause photokeratitis, a painful inflammation of the cornea. "Snow blindness" is the common term for severe photokeratitis, which causes temporary vision loss usually lasting 24-48 hours.
The risk for snow blindness is greatest at high altitudes, but it can occur anywhere there is snow if you don't protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses.
Because the cornea appears to absorb 100 percent of UVB rays, this type of UV radiation is unlikely to cause cataracts and macular degeneration, which instead are linked to UVA exposure.
HEV Radiation Risks
As the name suggests, high-energy visible (HEV) radiation, or blue light, is visible. Although HEV rays have longer wavelengths (400-500 nm) and lower energy than UV rays, they penetrate deeply into the eye and can cause retinal damage.
According to a European study published in the October 2008 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, HEV radiation — especially when combined with low blood plasma levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants — is associated with the development of macular degeneration.
Outdoor Risk Factors
Anyone who spends time outdoors is at risk for eye problems from UV radiation. Risks of eye damage from UV and HEV exposure change from day to day and depend on a number of factors, including:
• Geographic location. UV levels are greater in tropical areas near the earth's equator. The farther you are from the equator, the smaller your risk.
• Altitude. UV levels are greater at higher altitudes.
• Time of day. UV and HEV levels are greater when the sun is high in the sky, typically from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Setting. UV and HEV levels are greater in wide open spaces, especially when highly reflective surfaces are present, like snow and sand.
• In fact, UV exposure can nearly double when UV rays are reflected from the snow. UV exposure is less likely in urban settings, where tall buildings shade the streets.
• Medications. Certain medications, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics and tranquilizers, can increase your body's sensitivity to UV and HEV radiation.
Surprisingly, cloud cover doesn't affect UV levels significantly. Your risk of UV exposure can be quite high even on hazy or overcast days. This is because UV is invisible radiation, not visible light, and can penetrate clouds.
Measuring Ultraviolet Rays
In the United States, the risk for UV exposure is measured using the UV Index.
Developed by the NWS and EPA, the UV Index predicts each day's ultraviolet radiation levels on a simple 1 to 11+ scale.
In addition to publishing the UV Index daily, the EPA also issues a UV Alert when the level of solar UV radiation that day is expected to be unusually high.
Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses have been popular for years with boaters and fishermen who need to reduce reflected glare from the water surrounding them. But now that many others who spend time outdoors have discovered the benefits of polarized lenses, interest in these types of sunglasses has soared.
Besides boaters, outdoor enthusiasts who benefit the most from polarized sunglasses include skiers, bikers, golfers and joggers since all of these activities require the elimination of glare for optimum safety and performance.
Polarized sunglasses can be helpful for driving, too, because they reduce glare-causing reflections from flat surfaces, such as the hood of the car or the road's surface.
Some light-sensitive people, including post-cataract surgery patients and those continually exposed to bright light through windows, may also choose to wear polarized sunglasses indoors.
How Do Polarized Lenses Work?
Light usually scatters in all directions; but when it's reflected from flat surfaces, it tends to become polarized — meaning it travels in a more uniform (usually horizontal) direction. This creates an annoying and sometimes dangerous intensity of reflected light that causes glare and reduces visibility.
Polarized sunglasses provide superior glare protection — especially on the water.
Polarized lenses contain a special filter that blocks this type of intense reflected light, reducing glare.
Though polarized sunglasses improve comfort and visibility, you will encounter some instances when these lenses may not be advisable. One example is downhill skiing, where you don't want to block light reflecting off icy patches because this alerts skiers to hazards they are approaching.
In addition, polarized lenses may reduce the visibility of images produced by liquid crystal displays (LCDs) or light-emitting diode displays (LEDs) found on the dashboards of some cars or in other places such as the digital screens on automatic teller machines and self-service gas pumps.
With polarized lenses, you also may be unable to see your cell phone or GPS device.
Boaters and pilots also have reported similar problems when viewing LCD displays on instrument panels, which can be a crucial issue when it comes to making split-second decisions based strictly on information displayed on a panel. (Some manufacturers of these devices have changed their products to solve the problem, but many have not yet done so.)
However, for most other sports and activities, polarized sunglasses offer great advantages. And today, many polarized lenses are available in combination with other features that can enhance outdoor experiences.
Polarized Sunglasses: Other Considerations
Polarized sunglasses with progressive lenses are a good choice for presbyopes who spend significant time outdoors.
And polarized sunglasses with photochromic lenses are a great choice for anyone who is frequently in and out of the sun on any given day.
For the best comfort and performance with any polarized sunglasses, ask your eye care professional about having anti-reflective coating applied to the backside of the lenses. This will eliminate distracting reflections when the sun is behind you (and can potentially reflect off the back surface of the lenses and into your eyes).
Whether you spend your time waterskiing or boating, in-line skating or mountain biking, driving or jogging, polarized sunglasses may be the right choice to help you enjoy your life outdoors.