We all know that wearing sunglasses can make a big difference on a sunny day, but have you ever wondered about the science behind them? Specifically, what does “UV protection” mean, and why is it important? And how do polarised sunglasses fit into the picture? This article will explain everything you need to know about UV protection in polarised sunglasses.
What Are UV Rays?
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun. There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
- UVA rays can penetrate deep into the skin and are often associated with aging.
- UVB rays affect the surface of the skin and are responsible for sunburns.
- UVC rays are absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere and do not reach us.
Both UVA and UVB rays can be harmful, causing skin damage, premature aging, and increasing the risk of skin cancer. That’s why UV protection is crucial.
What Does UV Protection Mean?
When we talk about UV protection in sunglasses, we are referring to the ability of the lenses to block these harmful rays. Good quality UV protection sunglasses can block up to 99-100% of both UVA and UVB rays, keeping your eyes safe.
How UV Protection Works
UV protection is achieved through special coatings on the lenses. These coatings either absorb or reflect UV rays, preventing them from reaching your eyes.
- Absorptive coatings: These coatings absorb UV rays and prevent them from passing through the lenses.
- Reflective coatings: These coatings reflect UV rays away from the lenses.
What Are Polarised Sunglasses?
Polarised sunglasses are designed to reduce glare from surfaces like water, snow, and glass. They contain a special filter that blocks intense reflected light, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
How Polarisation Works
Light waves travel in different directions. When light reflects off a surface, it usually becomes polarised, meaning it travels in a more uniform direction. Polarised lenses have a special filter that blocks horizontally oriented light waves, reducing glare and improving visibility.
Benefits of Polarised Sunglasses
- Reduced glare: Makes outdoor activities like driving, fishing, and skiing safer and more comfortable.
- Improved visual clarity: Enhances contrast and sharpness.
- Reduced eye strain: Less squinting means less stress on your eyes.
Combining UV Protection and Polarisation
It’s important to note that polarisation and UV protection are not the same thing. Polarised sunglasses reduce glare, but they do not necessarily offer UV protection. However, many high-quality polarised sunglasses also include UV-blocking features, providing comprehensive eye protection.
Ensuring UV Protection
To ensure your sunglasses offer UV protection, look for labels that specify “100% UV protection” or “UV400”. UV400 means the lenses block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers, covering all UVA and UVB rays.
Advantages of UV Protection in Polarised Sunglasses
- Complete eye protection: Shields your eyes from both glare and harmful UV rays.
- Enhanced comfort: Reduces glare and eye strain, making it easier to see in bright conditions.
- Better eye health: Protects against long-term damage from UV exposure.
Choosing the Right Sunglasses
When shopping for sunglasses, consider both UV protection and polarisation. Here are some tips to help you choose the right pair:
Check for UV Protection
Make sure the sunglasses offer 100% UV protection. Look for labels or tags that confirm this. If you’re unsure, ask the retailer or check the manufacturer’s information.
Test for Polarisation
You can test if sunglasses are polarised by looking at a reflective surface, like a car windshield or water. Polarised lenses will reduce glare and make it easier to see through the reflection.
Consider Lens Color
Lens color doesn’t affect UV protection but can influence your vision in different environments:
- Gray lenses: Reduce overall brightness while preserving natural color balance.
- Brown/amber lenses: Enhance contrast and depth perception, great for variable light conditions.
- Yellow/gold lenses: Improve contrast and depth perception, ideal for low-light conditions.
Fit and Comfort
Make sure the sunglasses fit well and are comfortable to wear. They should cover your eyes completely and not slide down your nose.
Caring for Your Sunglasses
To maintain the UV protection and polarisation of your sunglasses, follow these care tips:
Clean Regularly
Use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner to clean your sunglasses. Avoid using paper towels or your shirt, as they can scratch the lenses.
Store Properly
Keep your sunglasses in a protective case when not in use. This prevents scratches and damage.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
High temperatures can damage the coatings on the lenses. Avoid leaving your sunglasses in hot cars or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Facts and data
If you have an ophthalmic quality sunglass frame, and you want to put new lenses in it, we can make sure your new lenses are UV blocking, Polarized, or both, according to your preference.
Conclusion
Understanding UV protection and polarisation in sunglasses is essential for choosing the right pair to protect your eyes. UV protection shields your eyes from harmful rays, while polarised lenses reduce glare and improve visual clarity. By combining these features, you can enjoy enhanced comfort and better eye health.
When shopping for sunglasses, look for those that offer 100% UV protection and consider the benefits of polarisation. With the right pair, you can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably.
