One of the most critical factors when buying sunglasses is UV protection. UV (Ultraviolet) rays can threaten eye health and cause various eye diseases. Understanding the UV protection properties of sunglasses not only protects your eyes but also helps you choose the right product. In this article, we will discuss in detail what UV protection is, why it is important and how to find it in sunglasses.
What is UV Protection?
UV protection is a feature that filters out the harmful UV rays of sunlight. UV rays are rays beyond the visible light spectrum of the sun, which the human eye cannot detect. There are two main types of UV rays:
- UV-A Rays: They have long wavelengths and can reach the deep layers of the eyes. It can cause skin aging and pigment changes in the eyes.
- UV-B Rays: They have short wavelengths and can damage the surface layers of the eyes. It can cause problems such as corneal inflammation and cataracts.
Why UV Protection is Important?
UV rays can damage your eyes in the long term and lead to various health problems. Glasses without UV protection put your eyes at risk as they cannot protect them from harmful rays. Here are some reasons why UV protection is important:
- Cataract Risk: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to the development of cataracts. Glasses with UV protection reduce this risk.
- Eye Cancer: UV rays can damage the skin around the eyes and eyelids, which increases the risk of eye cancer.
- Eye Fatigue and Vision Problems: UV rays can cause fatigue and discomfort in the eyes, especially when spending long periods of time outdoors.
How to Choose Sunglasses with UV Protection?
When choosing sunglasses, you should pay attention to the following criteria to determine whether the UV protection is correct:
- UV400 Filter: If your sunglasses have a UV400 filter, it means that they block 100% of UV rays. This provides the highest level of UV protection.
- Lens Quality: The quality of the lenses affects the UV protection. Quality lenses offer better UV protection.
- Brand and Certification: Products from trusted brands are usually certified for UV protection. These certificates show that the glasses meet UV protection standards.
- Eyewear Tests: You may be able to test the goggles against UV rays before you buy them. You can verify the level of UV protection by reviewing the test results.
Other Features of UV Protection
- Eyeglass Frame: The design of the spectacle frame can also affect UV protection. Fully closed frames provide better protection by preventing light from passing through the edges.
- Colors of Eyeglasses: The color of the lenses does not affect UV protection, but different colors can improve visual comfort.
Paying attention to UV protection when buying sunglasses is a critical step for your eye health. Glasses with a UV400 filter help protect you from the harmful effects of UV rays and support your long-term eye health. By considering UV protection features and other factors when choosing the right sunglasses, you can make a healthy and stylish choice.