The most important benefit of wearing sunglasses is that they protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can have harmful effects on the eyelid, cornea, lens and retina.

The primary purpose of sunglasses is indeed to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Exposure to UV rays can have damaging effects on the eyes, including an increased risk of developing conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.

Sunglasses are important for everyone, including children, as their eyes are particularly vulnerable to UV damage. It's crucial to provide adequate eye protection from a young age to minimize the risk of long-term eye problems.

Most sunglasses lenses nowadays are made of plastic materials that are designed to absorb or block UV rays. These lenses are often coated with a special UV-blocking layer to enhance their protective properties. However, over time, this coating can degrade due to factors like exposure to sunlight, scratches, or regular wear and tear. In such cases, it may be necessary to recoat the lenses or replace them to ensure proper UV protection.

To determine the quality of the tint and level of UV protection provided by sunglasses, optometrists can use an ultraviolet meter. This device measures the amount of UV radiation transmitted through the lenses, giving a precise indication of the level of protection offered. Optometrists often have access to such equipment to assess the UV protection capabilities of sunglasses and guide their patients accordingly.

Presenter: Dr. David Mitchell, Optometrist, Vancouver, BC