Depending on where you are, the sun should be getting ready to make its grand debut. While we all focus on the new spring color palette, getting our summer sandals, and beach bag ready, I just wanted to take a moment to focus on another important accessory: sunglasses.
Sunglasses are fun, transformative, and can definitely make a statement. But more importantly, they offer very important protection. Excuse me for a moment while I get on my soapbox to do some preaching. I used to work at an eyewear boutique for two years and learned a lot about the damage the sun can cause. While I’m a big fun-in-the-sun type of person, I also want to stay safe.
What is UV radiation?
There are 3 types of UV radiation. UVA is the most prevelant and 98% of it gets through the ozone layer. You can remember it as the aging ray. UVB is more blocked and generally 2% gets through. These are the rays that cause sunburns. UVC is very rare and usually all absorbed by the ozone.
Why is it bad?
UV radiation is the cause of 80% of skin cancer. It also can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and cataracts. Sun is a major factor in crow’s feet. And let’s not forget about the sunburn.
What can I do?
Wear sunglasses, first and foremost. Also, protect your children’s eyes. They need it even more than you do! Go polarized, if you can. Polarized lens help eye strain, reduce glare, and provide better eyesight accuracy. Obviously, big lenses are in, but they also offer more overall protection. Feel free to buy a few pairs with different colored lens. Rose colored lenses help with depth perception and brightening things up a bit. Brown lenses really help cut down on light. Black or grey lenses aid in keeping color perception accurate along with cutting down the light. Lastly, make sure any lenses you buy have 100% UVA & UVB protection!
If you have any specific questions about glasses, quality, or general sun exposure, let me know! Being light-eyed and light-haired, I am very sensitive and love to help others in picking out fashionable styles, as well as ones that are still safe.
All shown sunglasses can be found at Net-a-Porter.
