There's more to choosing sunglasses than just style. The right pair should also serve to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from damaging the eyes. But how do you know if your sunglasses offer proper protection? If you know what the UV ratings, lens labels, and quality standards mean you can make a better selection.
So what is UV Protection in Sunglasses?
UV protection sunglasses contain lenses that filter out damaging UltraViolet rays. When buying sunglasses, look for sunglasses that are rated to 100% Sun Protection Factor (SPF) for UVA and UVB protection.
What are UV400 sunglasses?
The uv400 glasses offer protection from UVA and UVB rays of UV light with a maximum wavelength of 400 nanometres (nm). While the UV400 label is a useful guide, ensure that the manufacturer specifies its protection levels and only purchase sunglasses from a trusted eyewear seller.
How to know if sunglasses have UV protection?
Best to look at the product label, package or manufacturer's specifications. For UV protection, search for terms like 100% UV protection, UV400 or blocks UVA and UVB rays.
You should look for uv 400 eyeglasses from a reputable eyewear shop that will offer some UV protection, not just the darker they are, the more it will protect you.
Do You Test Sunglasses for UV Protection?
A professional optical shop might possess devices which can identify if UV blocking lenses are obstructed. This is more effective than assessing the level of protection based on lens colour or appearance.
The darker the lenses, the more UV protection they don't necessarily have.
Why Is 100% UV Protection Important?
Wearing 100 UV protection sunglasses can filter out UVA and UVB rays and are helpful when wearing them outdoors for prolonged periods of time like walking, traveling, sports, and commuting, to avoid unnecessary UV exposure.
UV Blocking vs. Polarized Sunglasses
Polarization and UV protection are 2 different types of protection. UV blocking sunglasses will help block UV rays, and polarized lenses will block glare from roads, water and snow. Polarization is not sufficient to ensure protection from UV rays, so always refer to product specifications.
How to Choose Quality Sunglasses
Remember that not only the style of the frame or color of the lens is important when purchasing sunglasses. Consider these factors:
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For the best protection, seek out clearly stated UV400, or 100% UVA/UVB.
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Buy from a reputable eyewear retailer or manufacturer.
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Read the product description and lens specs.
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Opt for comfortable frames that fit tightly and don't slip.
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Consider polarization if you regularly experience bright glare.
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Search for sturdiness lenses and frames that will benefit in day-to-day usage.
Quality sunglasses that are 100% UV protected by verified UV certification can offer a more balanced level of eye protection, comfort, durability and usability.
Are high priced sunglasses more effective at blocking UV rays?
Not necessarily. Price is not a measure of UV protection. It is possible that a pair of less expensive sunglasses can provide a good amount of UV protection if the lenses in the pair have the proper protection level while an expensive fashion pair should still be checked for UV protection.
The main point is to find a verified protection instead of picking the price, the brand or the darkness of the lens.
This is the quick UV Protection Checklist
When buying sunglasses:
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Is there a clear statement of 100% UVA and UVB protection?
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Has it been rated for UV400?
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Is the UV protection data given by a trusted vendor?
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Are the lenses and frames suitable for your intended use?
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Is the product making information about the lens technology readily available?
Final Takeaway
The only way to determine if sunglasses are protecting your eyes is to look at their verified UV specifications, not by the way they look. Get your sunglasses from a reputable source that offers UV protection sunglasses,uv 400 eyeglasses and 100 UV protection sunglasses. Having the information you need to make an eyewear selection can make it easier for you to select a pair of sunglasses that offer UV protection as well as comfort and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all sunglasses UV protected?
No, UV protection is not a given. Please check the product specification or label.
Is it better to have UV protection or 100% UV protection?
The labels can both state high protection from the sun. UV400 indicates the wavelength range that is blocked, and 100% UV protection means that it is expected to be able to block 100% of UV rays.
Do polarized sunglasses protect against UV rays?
Yes, polarized sunglasses will block out the UV rays.
Polarization and UV protection are independent. Verify that the sun glasses have specific mention of the 100% UV protection.
Are sunglasses able to lose UV protection?
The lenses should be evaluated based on the manufacturer's specification and condition. Sunglasses may be hardened, or damaged or scratched, and for other reasons may need replacing.
How to choose sunglasses?
Check for clearly displayed UV400 or 100% UVA/UVB protection, accurate product information, comfort and lenses suitable for the activities you will be using them for.