UV EYE PROTECTION

When we think about damage from the sun’s rays, we focus mostly on our skin. But the sun is a serious threat to our eyes and the delicate skin around them. Sunglasses with UV protection are sunblock for your eyes. Read on to learn more about the effect of UV light on eyes and how to protect your eyes from UV rays.

UV EYE PROTECTION STARTS EARLY

Sun protection is important for all of us. The effect of UV light on our eyes and the danger of damage from UV radiation grows the more time we spend in the sun throughout our lives. Children are even more vulnerable to retinal damage because their young eyes are clearer. Did you know most of a person's lifetime exposure to UV radiation can occur by age 20?** It’s essential to start wearing sun protection for your eyes early.

Look for a pair of sunglasses specifically designed for UV eye protection that are rated UV400 or higher; that means they’ll block 99.9% of UV rays. Lenses should also be polarized, to help neutralize harmful glare. And watch out for false UV labels – not all UV sunglasses are created equal.

Lenses that are UV400 or greater filter out 99.9% of UVA and UVB light. For
full vision protection, purchase eyeglass lenses or sunglasses at UV400 or higher.

EFFECT OF UV RAYS ON OUR EYES

There are two types of UV rays we should be most worried about– UVA and UVB

• UVA rays pass through the cornea to reach the lens and retina inside your eyes. Overexposure to UVA radiation has been linked to the development of macular degeneration-damage to the retina that causes loss of central vision, and certain types of cataracts-- a clouding of the lens that leads to a decrease in vision.

• UVB rays are partially filtered by the ozone layer, but are more intense than UVA rays. They penetrate less deeply and are completely absorbed by the cornea. In short term doses, UVB rays have been known to cause “snow blindness,” a painful inflammation of the cornea that causes temporary vision loss.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR EYES FROM UV RAYS

The best way to protect your eyes is by wearing UV sunglasses whenever you’re outside. Opt for a brand you can trust or have them checked by an optician at a LensCrafters store. Whether you’re a fashionista or a trail-trekker, there is a pair of UV protection sunglasses to keep your eyes protected.

If you wear glasses, prescription sunglasses give you the freedom to wear just about any frame you love with the protection you need. Choose from a range of UV blocking prescription sun lenses in a variety of tints. Many brands, like Ray-Ban® and Oakley® offer prescription lenses designed for UV eye protection, so you can get an authentic frame and lens package.

Protecting yourself from the effect of UV rays on your eyes doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Enjoy life under the sun and protect yourself with UV resistant sunglasses that are as stylish or sporty as you. To learn more about prescription sunglasses and the options available at LensCrafters, visit our sunglasses page.

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**World Health Organization