Ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been linked to several eye diseases, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Some studies also show that it contributes to growths like pterygium and even eye cancer. A day of activities outside, such as fishing or skiing, without appropriate sunglasses, can result in photokeratitis. It’s an extremely painful temporary eye condition that’s caused by a large amount of UV exposure. It’s essentially a sunburn on the cornea.
To protect your eyes from harmful sunlight, opt for sunglasses with lenses that have a UV400 rating. Ideally, you’d want a pair of eyewear that has a UV400 label on it. UV400 blocks 99 to 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays. This coating ensures that light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, like UV-A and UV-B rays, are blocked. UV-A rays not only tan your skin but also cause premature aging. The nastier type is UV-B rays. They can cause sunburn and damage eye tissues from prolonged sun exposure. UV400 sunglasses provide the ultimate UV protection for your eyes.
Sunglasses with UV protection blocks the harmful rays because of the lenses’ material. A special coating is applied to the lenses that absorb UV radiation.
Do you have access to a UV flashlight? If so, you may try a simple test at home by simply shining the flashlight onto a piece of U.S. paper money. Newer ones contain UV-fluorescent fibers. They should glow once exposed to UV rays. If the beam from your UV flashlight causes the fibers to glow even after letting it pass through the lens of your sunglasses, then you’d know that your eyewear doesn’t provide adequate UV protection.
Alternatively, you may visit an eye care professional to test whether or not the lenses of your sunglasses have UV-blocking technology. They will use an instrument known as a photometer to determine how effective your eyewear is at protecting your eyes.
Sunglasses make it a lot easier for you to see on a bright, sunny day. But even more important is wearing the right pair provides the best defense against harmful UV light. To avoid the risk of short-term and long-term eye damage, consider these factors when buying sunglasses, including:
Does your work or interests keep you outdoors, exposing you to more sunlight than necessary? At Positive Eye Ons Optometry, we can help you find the right sunglasses for you. Call our office today in Los Angeles, California at 323-651-5646 to make an appointment.