You're not ready for summer until you treat yourself to the newest sunglasses.

Everyone-even a child-is at risk. No one is immune to sunlight-related eye problems. People who are at higher risk of developing problems from UV rays include those who spend long hours in the sun because of work or recreation, those who have had cataract surgery and individuals who have certain retinal disorders. Also, some people are more sensitive to UV rays, including those who take certain medications, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics and tranquilizers that increase the eye's sensitivity to light.


Sunglasses can help your eyes in two important ways. They enhance the normal light-filtering capabilities of your eyes and they protect against the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays that cause amongst other conditions cataracts and retinal dysfunction. Good sunglasses will reduce glare, filter out 99 to 100 percent of ultraviolet (UV) rays, provide visual protection, be comfortable and not distort colors.


When your purchase sunglasses, look for a statement on the amount of UV radiation that is blocked from reaching the eye. The rule of thumb is the less UV rays that get through, the better. Experts recommend that to protect your eyes from harmful rays, sunglasses should block 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B rays. Since as much as 50 percent of sunlight comes from overhead and gets by many glasses, a brimmed cap or hat should also be worn for maximum protection. 


Eye-wear that wraps around the face also helps minimize the amount of harmful light entering the eyes. Remember behind a dark lens your eyes open up to try and compensate for the reduced amount of lighting, if your sunglasses are therefore not filtering out the harmful UV rays you will increase your exposure and risk of sunlight related eye problems!

When selecting sunglasses for children, keep these suggestions in mind:

  • Check the sunglasses periodically to make sure they fit well and are not damaged.
  • Select sunglasses that suit children's active lifestyles. The glasses should be impact resistant (made of CR39 or polycarbonate), should not pop out of the frames, and the frames should be bendable, unbreakable and/or have snap-on temples.
  • The lenses should be large enough to shield the eyes from most angles and to block light that leaks in around the frames.
  • Choose a wide-brimmed hat for your child to maximize protection.

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