When it comes to wearing sunglasses, you probably think of sunny days and increased comfort. However, prescription sunglasses do more than help you enjoy your day.
UV rays can negatively affect your eyes as much as it can your skin. The right prescription sunglasses are just as important as wearing sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
So it’s important not to ignore your eyes when venturing outside!
In this article, we’re going to look at why it’s important to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays as well as the different options available when it comes to prescription glasses:
UV Protection
Prescription sunglasses can help protect your eyes from prolonged exposure to UV lights which can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye-related issues.
And the sun doesn’t have to be out to cause harm! UV rays can affect your eyes on overcast or partly cloudy days as well.
If you wear prescription glasses, it’s recommended that you also have a pair of prescription sunglasses to protect your eyes when outdoors. This way, you can spare your eyes from harmful UV rays while ensuring you have a full range of vision when you are outside.
How Do UV Rays Affect My Eyes?
There are two types of UV rays that can negatively impact the health of your eyes: UVA and UVB.
UVA rays are those that pass through the cornea to your eye’s lens and retina. Overexposure to this type of UV ray can lead to macular degeneration, as mentioned above, and cause damage to your retina (which can result in the loss of central vision and lead to cataracts).
UVB rays are filtered by the ozone layer, but only partially. They are more intense than UVA rays and are completely absorbed by your cornea. In small doses, UVB can cause inflammation of the cornea and temporary vision loss.
Safe Driving
Protecting your eyes from the sun is also important when it comes to driving.
When driving on sunny days, it’s not safe to forfeit your vision when the sun gets in your eyes. Prescription sunglasses prevent unexpected flares that force your eyes from the road while you are driving.
With a quality pair of prescription sunglasses, you can ensure you, your eyes, and your passengers are protected as you drive without worry.
Coating Options for Prescription Sunglasses
Just like eyeglasses, there are a variety of coating options when it comes to prescription eyeglasses such as:
- Anti-Reflective Coating: This type of coating involves a thin multilayer of coating that prevents reflections and glare. An anti-reflective coating can improve light transmission to prevent sun glare and improve night driving.
- Scratch-Resistant Coating: To help keep your prescription glasses in good shape, consider applying a scratch-resistant coating to create a harder surface and protect your glasses from damage caused by dropping and cleaning.
- Anti-Fog Coating: Fogging can happen during humid days or when you enter a warm environment when it is cold outside. Prevent the inconvenience and reduced safety of fogging by applying an anti-fog coating.
- Ultraviolet Treatment: Ultraviolet lens treatment is an invisible dye that blocks UV light. Think of it as sunscreen for your eyeballs!
By opting for these coating options for your prescription sunglasses, you can ensure additional protection for your eyes from harmful UV rays and sun glare.
What Are Transition Lenses?
A popular option for those who wear prescription glasses is a transitional lens. These lenses, also known as photochromic lenses, darken when exposed to sunlight and lighten in environments that are dark or have softer light.
Transition lenses offer the convenience of sunglasses without having to switch from your prescription glasses or wearing sunglasses over your glasses.
Transition lenses are also cost-effective, eliminating the need to purchase and maintain two pairs of glasses. You can also reduce the risk of losing your glasses since you only have to carry one pair with you.
When it comes to harmful UV rays, transition lenses can help keep your eyes healthier and happier!
Keep in mind that transition lenses are not as effective in your car as they are outside. This is because the lenses react to UV rays which are blocked by your windshield. You may find that they do not darken completely while driving your car.
Protect Your Eyes!
Our staff at The Eye Clinic is dedicated to your health and the health of your eyes!
Book your eye exam today and let our professional optometrist guide you to the perfect pair of prescription glasses to increase your comfort and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
Give us a call at 780-761-0080 or contact us through our website to book your appointment.
We look forward to seeing you!