Shopping for high quality Sunglasses

Sunglasses as we know serves as a fashion statement, completing our outfit of the day!

The main reason one should wear sunglasses is to ensure the maximum protection of the eyes from the harmful rays of the sun.

The tissues that make up our eyes are the most sensitive and UV radiation, whether from natural or artificial sources can be damaging to your eyes. UV light can cause short-term or long-term damage to your eyes. There are many eye conditions that can be caused and worsened by UV exposure.

One way to protect your eyes from harmful radiation is by wearing a good quality pair of sunglasses, but how can you be so sure that your sunglasses are giving you the protection that you need?

You’ll be surprised to know that not all sunglasses are equipped with double gradient lenses that filter and block out 100% of the sun’s harmful UV rays. So what can you do to ensure that you are purchasing good quality sunglasses? Well, firstly: You can shop at the Optik Studio! We are an Optometry Practice and are licensed to retail the highest quality of sunglasses. As a medical professional we only offer the best to our patients and clients.

All Optometrists are your best friend when it comes to purchasing authentic UV protected eyewear and we’re here to help guide you to shop for the perfect pair for you!

1. Shop at The Optik Studio!
2. Look for UV protection Labels: Trusted Eyewear brands will produce the best sunglasses for eye protection. Branded Eyewear are produced in an environment that is associated with ophthalmic companies that manufacture UV protected eyewear. One of the most famous brands namely Ray-Ban, provides 100% UV protection. Many trusted local and international brands may indicate the type of UV protection on their labels. Sunglasses with a UV400 Lens blocks all light rays with wavelengths of up to 400nm, which covers all UVA and UVB rays. Other labels would indicate 100% UV protection. It is important to look out for these labels when shopping for sunglasses.
3. Test your Sunglasses with a UV a flashlight: If you have a UV flashlight, there is a simple trick to follow. Hold a UV flashlight against paper money and when the watermarks from the money lights up, put your sunglasses in front of it. If the watermark disappears, it has UV protection. It’s as simple as that! However, it is important to note, the flashlight will release visible light, some of the visible light will make it through and illuminate the rest of the paper money. This is normal because if visible light could not penetrate the lens, you would not be able to see!
4. Check the expiration date: Well, while this may sound odd, sunglasses tend to wear off overtime. When exposed to UV rays, over time the special lens coatings of the lens gets damaged and may slowly peel away thus it no longer becomes effective. Another note here, this is the reason Optometrists always advise to renew your prescription and lenses after 2 years!
5. The darker the sunglasses doesn’t mean the stronger the lenses: There is a misconception of sunglasses being more effective if darker. The main component of sunglasses is good or full UV protection. Dark sunglasses may make your pupils widen which allows more light to penetrate your eyes. As a result, the extra UV exposure increases one’s chances of Cataracts and Macular degeneration. If you are getting dark sunglasses, make sure they are authentic and block out 100% UV light. Often these types of sunglasses are sold in massive wholesale or clothing companies as a fashion accessory, but it is not always beneficial to your eyes.
6. Polarized Sunglasses: This one’s our favourite! For good reason, polarized lenses are becoming more popular. Polarized lenses are designed to block out horizontally-oriented light. Now this means that it should reduce glares, enhance contrast and improve visual clarity and comfort. This adds and enhances protection of your eyes. Polarized lenses are useful when driving, playing sports and any water activities such as fishing or boat rides as it emits the glares and reflections of the sun from other cars and the water. Although polarized lenses are high quality pair of sunglasses to buy, it can be less appropriate when looking at LED screens, dashboard and other instrument displays.
7. Check the quality of the Frame: High quality frames make for High quality durable sunglasses. Feel if the frame feels strong and durable. If the hinges on the arms feel tight or loose. Check the packaging of the frame. Check the materials that are used such as acetate or metal.
8. Shape of the frame: It’s important to choose Sunglasses that properly covers the entire eye are. Some frames that are too big would allow light to emit directly onto your eyes thus loosing its purpose. Choose a frame that would optimally serve to protect your eyes from all angles.
9. Lastly check with your friendly neighborhood Optometrist!

Congratulations! You can now officially consider yourself as a sunglass connoisseur! The perfect pair is waiting to be worn by you!

However, there are two things you should remember: Look for a pair that suits your face shape and NEVER leave the house without them!

Now you ready to shop your next pair of sunglasses!