Importance of UV Protection in Sunglasses

Harmful UV rays can affect you even when the sun is not shining. Odd, right? Surfaces like sand, snow, water, and buildings can reflect these rays and pose a risk to your eyes. Regrettably, many people do not consider UV coating on their eyeglasses or sunglasses a top priority when selecting new eyewear. However, it is crucial to recognize that harmful UV rays can still impact your eyes on cloudy or overcast days. 

UV Coating

UV-coated sunglasses and eyeglasses typically incorporate materials that block both UVA and UVB rays. These provide essential protection for your eyes outdoors. Many sunglasses and eyewear brands already have UV coating as a standard feature. Alternatively, UV coating can be applied to your eyewear after purchase to ensure adequate protection.

What Are UV Rays?

UV radiation, sometimes called ultraviolet light, is the energy that the sun emits. Additionally, welding and tanning booths can produce artificial sources of this type of light. Lightning, fluorescent lamps, water purifiers, and disinfectants are other sources of UV radiation.

UV light is typically experienced by our eyes and as a warm sensation on our bodies. However, specific UV radiation can be harmful to people's health.

Types of UV Rays

UV rays can be categorized into three main types. These are UVA, UVB, and UVC, varying considerably in terms of their wavelengths. Upon reaching the Earth from the sun, the atmosphere predominantly absorbs ultraviolet C. Ultraviolet A and B are the primary types of UV rays that reach us. These can potentially cause harm if we are overexposed to them.

Do You Need UV Coating on Your Sunglasses?

UV coating is crucial in protecting your eyes from excessive UVA and UVB exposure, which can cause eye damage similar to a sunburn. Red and swollen eyes are only a few symptoms of overexposure to these rays. 

They also result in wet eyes, increased sensitivity to light, and a gritty sensation as though foreign matter is present. These are the immediate consequences of exposure to UV light. With longer exposure, the effects of UV on your eye health can be substantially worse.

Consider that about 25% of UV eye damage happens before age 20. Most children are exposed to the greatest UV light during the summer. Consequently, taking action to protect their eyes is essential.

Importance of UV Protection

• Reducing the Risk of Eye Lens Damage

Eyewear with UV protection minimizes the possibility of lens damage. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation is proven to cause it.
 

• Protecting the Cornea

The cornea is at risk from excessive UV exposure. Sunglasses and eyewear with UV protection from the sun act as a barrier, decreasing the risk of corneal damage.
 

• Reducing the Likelihood of Conditions Connected to Vision

Macular degeneration and cataracts are two vision conditions exacerbated by UV exposure. By incorporating UV eyewear, the risk of these conditions can be reduced.

By prioritizing UV protection in your eyewear choices, you can safeguard your eyes from potential harm. You will decrease the likelihood of vision-related ailments associated with UV light exposure.

For more on the importance of UV protection in sunglasses, contact Total Vision Care Optometry at our office in Chowchilla, California. Call (559) 665-0656​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ to book an appointment today.