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WHAT'S NEW
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Sunglasses that protect your eyes
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Good sunglasses are much more than a must-have summer accessory; they're de rigueur for eye health.
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By Vickie Reichardt
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Choose the right specs
The sun's rays are most powerful between approximately 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., so limit your exposure during this time. If you're going to be out in the sun, wearing sunglasses is a must, says MacDonald. "Avoidance is the best protection. However, spectacle lenses can provide additional UV protection."
Beyond fashion accessories, sunglasses filter out damaging UVA and UVB rays, some as much as 100 per cent absorption. Both MacDonald and Nicol agree that UV protection is the key quality to look for in prospective specs. Here are some factors to consider when sunglass shopping:
- Proper fit: Sunglasses should be neither too loose nor too tight.
- Low image distortion: When you look at a grid pattern (such as tile), lenses should not cause uneven magnification of objects (which puts you at risk of eye fatigue, although it's not permanent).
- Adequate eye coverage: Lenses should be big enough to fully cover your eyes. Wraparound shades may offer more complete coverage.
- Impact resistance: Lenses should be made of an impact-resistant material to protect you from injury.
- Polarization: Some lenses are polarized, allowing you to see more clearly through reflected light; for example, while driving or on the water.
- Lens colour: Brown, grey and green lenses are good, all-purpose colours. They absorb enough visible light to reduce glare. Lighter colours such as yellow and amber can enhance light levels, making them good for lower-
light activities.
Wear shades when you head outside to ensure better vision into the sunset.
Pick the perfect pair
Which sunglasses are right for you? Choose from three types of lenses: plastic, which are typically bent to shape; polycarbonate, which are molded; and glass, which are ground to shape.
Lens material: |
Plastic |
Polycarbonate |
Glass |
Cost |
inexpensive |
wide range |
more expensive |
Weight |
light to medium |
very light |
heavier |
UV protection |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Impact resistance |
fair to poor |
excellent |
fair to poor |
Scratch resistance |
poor unless coated |
good if coated |
excellent |
Image distortion |
high |
varies by model |
very little to none |
Optical clarity |
fair |
good to very good |
excellent |
Prescription |
no |
some models |
yes |
There's more to healthy eyes than quality sunglasses. Make sure your summer eye care is up to par.
Page 2 of 2
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