Whether you wear non-prescription or prescription sunglasses, their purpose is to protect your eyes from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. All light carries energy, but UV rays carry more than visible light rays, so the risk of eye damage is greater from absorbing UV radiation. Long term UV exposure can lead to the development of eye diseases such as eye cancer, cataracts and macular degeneration.
Why Do You Need Non-Prescription or Prescription Sunglasses?
Most sunglasses today have plastic lenses, which are more durable than glass. Depending on your lifestyle, you may choose prescription sunglasses for a number of reasons, including for cosmetic purposes, to protect your eyes from 'snow glare' in the winter, or to see more clearly while driving.
There are a few common misconceptions about sunglasses:
1. Children don't need sunglasses. In fact, children especially need sunglasses, as their eyes don't have the same ability as an adult's eyes to protect from UV radiation.
2. The darker the lens, the more UV protection it provides. The lens colour doesn't have anything to do with how much UV light it blocks. If you're choosing prescription sunglasses, your optometrist can help you find a pair that provides optimal protection against UV.
3. UV protection is only required in the summer. Everyone faces risk of eye damage from the sun year-round. Watch our sun damage video.
Before You Choose Prescription Sunglasses, Remember...
In order to protect your eyes from UV rays, there is a special coating on the lens, which can degrade over time. You may have to get your sunglasses re-coated periodically to maintain optimal UV protection. Your optometrist can determine the level of UV protection and quality of tint in your prescription sunglasses by using a special machine.