"While selecting a pair of sunglasses, one should read the label properly. Look for UV light absorption percentage. Not all sunglasses are 100 per cent UV protective. But, anything which has more than 70-85 per cent UV absorption will serve the purpose. Larger lenses offer greater eye protection than small lenses. For maximum protection, use wrap-around lenses," says Dr Nayak
Do we need to wear sunglasses only during summer? No, it should be worn in all seasons. In summer, the intensity of the rays is high.
"Winter or summer, cloudy or sunny-you are susceptible to UV rays. Excess UV exposure can cause cataract, macular degeneration, pterygium (fleshy growth) and dryness of the eyes.Sunglasses are not just another stylish accessory. The color of sunglasses is purely cosmetic. The percentage of UV absorption is more important than the colour of sunglasses. Polarised sunglasses reduce glare, and they are more comfortable."
Sunglasses also protect the skin of our eyelids, as the skin of the eyelids are the thinnest in the entire body. If you have a prescription, those can be incorporated with sunglasses also.
Sunglass is especially important for people who have undergone cataract surgery, light coloured eyes, and under photosensitive medication. The most significant danger of poor sunglasses is if they are tinted but do not block the UV rays. Blue rays of the light spectrum are said to be more dangerous to the retina. They might damage the retina causing macular degeneration.
Important to note that “Just sunglasses without UV protection may damage your eye, as pupils will be dilated which increases harmful solar rays to enter the eyes causing more retinal damage.
People working outdoors continuously should wear glass lenses. Plastic or fibre lenses are likely to get distorted due to very high temperatures. Use sunglasses only when you are outdoors.” Wearing them indoors and at the workplace look indecent and may not be acceptable by others, suggests Dr Nayak.
Power sunglasses are offered by different international brands like Ray Ban , Oakley, Mauijim , and Nova.
