Most people, including kids, should use sunglasses. Ultraviolet rays have been shown to increase the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. The best protective sunglasses are large frame, wraparound and close fitting. The best protection should say “blocks 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB ray. Good protection is not necessarily pricey. Here is what you should know…
Polarized. Because they block light waves that align in horizontal patterns when reflecting off flat surfaces, they are useful for fishing, hunting, skiing, and driving.
Tint. Tint is mainly a matter of preference - for best color preception use lenses that are gray, amber, brown, or green. Green offers the best contrast with little or no color distortion. Darker lenses don’t necessarily provide more UV protection.
Mirror coating. It’s derived from thin layers of various metals coating and doesn’t automatically convey UVA/UVB protection.
Blue blocking. Describes amber colored lenses that protect eyes from blue visible light. There is some evidence that the retina might be more sensitive to that light.
ANSI. The American National Standards Institute, oversees development of voluntary standards for sunglasses and other products.
Impact resistant. The Food and Drug Administration requires all sunglasses to survive an impact test without fracturing but not to be shatterproof.
Polycarbonate. A plastic that resists impact especially well.
Photochromic. These lenses lighten or darken is response to sunlight.
Digg
Sphinn
del.icio.us
Facebook
Mixx
Google
