Studies show that high exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can be harmful to the eyes and may cause cataracts, scarring of connective tissue, and corneal flash burns. Wearing sunglasses can be one of the best ways to protect the eyes from UV rays. Regular glasses give some protection but prescription sunglasses are ideal.
In the past, people who wore glasses merely clipped on special lenses. Today prescription sunglasses can be individually designed to fit most any personality.
Prescription sunglasses have a wide array of styles, from the latest designer pair to something that fits a budget. But first an updated eye exam is recommend in order to ensure that the strength of the lenses are correct.
Choosing a Frame
Most quality frames can be selected for prescription sunglasses. Frames that hold a prescription lens are “Rxable” and have the best quality. Low grade frames are normally not Rxable.
A wide selection of frames makes it possible to select a desired color and shape. Frame colors can be chosen to enhance skin tone and features. Additionally, frame shape is important for style and comfort. Once a desired frame is selected then choose a lens that is best suited for your needs.
There are also prescription sunglasses available for an active lifestyle. The frames are in a wrap around style that is perfect for skiing, biking, and other various outdoor activities. Shy away from high performance sunglasses that have excessive wrap around because it can interfere with peripheral vision.
Lenses
Lenses can be made with single vision, bifocal, or progressive. There are also lenses that will auto adjust to light. Yet in order to receive the best protection from UV rays, lenses should be polarized. A polarized lens will restrict vibration of light caused by glare and objects that reflect sunlight.
There are also anti-reflective lenses that reflects the light on the surface of the lens itself. These lenses should not be confused with polarized lenses that decrease the visible glare from surfaces such as water and pavement. A polarized lens will reduce the glare to a much higher capacity and also put less strain on the eyes caused by a bright environment.
Photochromic Lenses
Photochromic lenses automatically darken when exposed to UV rays and clears in reduced light. Often photochromic lenses are referred to as transition lenses.
They were first introduced in the 1960s but the first commercially successful plastic photochromic lens came out in 1991. In the past 15 years, photochromic lenses undoubtedly advanced in technology. Not only is the response time to exposed light less than a minute but some studies state that they can absorb up to 20 percent of ambient light. Transition lenses are readily available and can be made to fit most frames.
Tint Density
There are basically three tint densities; 20 percent, 50 percent, and 80 percent. Higher percentages offer greater protection. Typically 20 percent tint density is for aesthetics and 80 percent is the largest amount for protection against UV rays.