Do you look at the label when buying a new pair of shades? Keep eye protection, comfort, and style in mind. TPMG Ophthalmologist, Dr. Dawnielle J. Kerner shares tips on choosing the right pair of sunglasses to keep you well protected from those ultraviolet rays. Most are aware of the harmful effects of UV rays on your skin, but did you know your eyes are also in danger? Overexposure to UV rays poses several harmful side effects to our eyes. UV rays can cause wrinkles around your eyes and skin cancer. Most people avoid putting sunscreen on their eyelids because sunscreen’s chemicals can irritate the eyes; however, eyes and the skin around them still need protection from the sun. Other harmful side effects include cataracts, pterygium (growths on the outside of the eye, also known as surfer’s eye), ocular melanoma, dry eye, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). With all these potential dangers, finding the right eye protection is paramount.
There are different forms of protective sunglasses. Polarized lenses help prevent glare and are useful for driving and beach days when light is coming at your eyes from several directions. Mirrored lenses are created using several layers of a reflective optical coating and can also combat glare. Both of these help your vision, but only UV-protected glasses will truly safeguard your eyes against the harmful effects of UV rays.
It’s important to know that your sunglasses’ lenses are UV protected. Many brands of sunglasses claim UV protection, but don’t really work. While you’re looking for glasses at the store, look for labels that say one hundred percent protection against UVA and UVB. These labels indicate the lenses have a special UV protective coating. If you’re looking for a reputable brand for sunglasses, try Foster Grant. They are reasonably priced and sold in most local shopping centers.
“It’s never too early to start wearing sunglasses,” said Dr. Kerner, a highly-skilled, board certified ophthalmologist. She recommends that everyone should wear sunglasses, including children. Sunglasses can offer protection outside when the sun is shining and also on overcast days.
Don’t leave your eyes vulnerable to harmful UV rays. Look for a pair of protective sunglasses today and protect your eyes for tomorrow.
Dawnielle J. Kerner, MD, is a highly-skilled, board certified ophthalmologist with over 20 years of clinical experience. Dr. Kerner has a special interest in treating patients with glaucoma; this includes patients 12 years of age and older with congenital glaucoma. As an active member of several organizations, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology and The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons, she is passionate about educating others on all types of vision and eye conditions. She is currently accepting new patients at her office, The Ophthalmology Center in Norfolk.
