Polarized Lenses vs. UV Protection: “SPF” for the Eyes!
We know it’s important to protect our skin when out in the sun, but it’s just as important to protect our delicate eyes from discomfort and possible damage from the sun’s rays. July is UV Safety Awareness Month, a perfect time to talk about polarized lenses and UV protected lenses: what’s the difference, and when and why do we need them?
Polarized Lenses
What: Polarized, or anti-glare, sunglass lenses reduce light glare and the eyestrain that can result from glare. They have a special chemical applied to them to filter light. The chemical’s molecules are lined up specifically to block horizontal light from passing through the lens.
Why: When working or playing outdoors, you can become frustrated and even temporarily blinded by reflected light and glare. Polarized lenses block all the horizontal light waves bouncing off a smooth pond or a shiny car hood, for instance.
When: While polarized sunglasses are a good choice for most everyday situations, you may find them especially helpful when:
• Fishing, boating, and other water sports. To reduce glare from the water.
• At the beach. Polarized lenses reduce the reflected glare from the water and the sand.
• Golfing. To reduce glare on fairways. You can remove polarized sunglasses when putting if that’s your preference.
• Most snowy environments. Snow causes glare, so a pair of polarized sunglasses are usually a good choice.
Note: There are a few instances where polarized lenses are NOT helpful, such as when looking at LCD (liquid crystal display) screens, and at times when more light is an advantage as when driving at night or on icy roads, or to see ice patches better when skiing.
UV Protection
(Keep in mind that if your sunglasses are labeled as UV blocking, it does not mean they are polarized too.)
What: A coating applied to lenses to absorb or block the sun’s harmful UV radiation. This shields eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays (both UVA and UVB).
Why: Everyone’s eyes are susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) light, regardless of age or skin pigmentation. UV protection helps prevent sunburned eyes (photokeratitis) and UV-related eye health issues like cataracts and macular degeneration.
When: Have blue or green eyes? Some studies show that UV exposure and light irises may increase the risk of rare eye cancers. But whatever your eye color, UV blocking lenses are a good choice for:
• Everyday wear
• Any outdoor activities
So, why not get the best of both worlds? Polarized + UV blocking lenses are ideal for a wide range of activities, from driving to outdoor sports. This combo will help to reduce eye fatigue, enhance visual comfort, and protect your eyes from possible sun-caused damage. So when you’re choosing your next set of eyeglass lenses (see also https://atlanticeye.com/2024/06/the-lowdown-on-lenses/ ) ask your Atlantic Eye physician about the best type of sun protection for your individual lifestyle.