If you’re shopping for sunglasses this time of year, you can find them just about anywhere from the pharmacy to the grocery store check-out line. So, for many of us, shades are a grab-and-go purchase.
Sure, we might try on a few pairs to determine what’s attractive while squinting into the small mirror attached to the plastic kiosk. But it’s easy to forget that sunglasses serve a functional purpose, as well.
Those who choose to skip sunglasses altogether are taking a risk. According to the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, if you’re spending long hours in the sun, foregoing sunglasses can damage your eyes by contributing to cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer.
Adam Barr, lab manager at Weaver Eye Associates in Dallastown, agrees. “I think everyone should wear sunglasses — and that includes children,” he said, adding that most of the damage from the sun occurs during childhood.
So, what should rank high on the list of priorities when choosing a pair of sunglasses?
Barr suggests UV protection. “All eyes are susceptible to UV rays from the sun.”
He also recommends polarized lenses, which aid with glare and vision year-round. “If you’re skiing, or at the lake, and the sun is reflecting off of the bright surfaces, it cuts the glare.”
Keeping two pairs of polarized sunglasses on hand is a smart idea to deal with the changing weather. “Grey lenses offer light reduction and are most efficient on bright days, while brown lenses increase contrast, making colors more vibrant,” Barr said. “They are great for rainy, or overcast days.”
Selecting stylish frames
If it’s been a while since you’ve updated your look, you might want to invest in a more fashionable pair of sunglasses. Barr said the classic wayfarer is currently popular among men. Women, on the other hand, are choosing larger frames, with embellishments and bling.
Bolder colors are also popular now.
“The color of the year is orchid and more women are buying frames in the purple spectrum,” Barr said.
His fashion advice? “Pick something that’s flattering, color wise — but still have fun with it. Try to select something off the beaten path of what you’d normally wear every day.”
To select the right frames, Barr suggests juxtaposing them according to the shape of your face. “Those who have round faces should consider more angular frames and those with square faces should go with a rounder frame,” he said. “The rule of thumb is to go the opposite of your face shape to balance things out.”
When in doubt, consult an eye care professional. “Professionals are equipped to advise consumers on the wide range of available options, including prescription — and even Transitions™ — lenses,” Barr said.
He said you’ll find better quality products at an eye doctor.
“Also keep in mind that vision insurance can often be used for a price break on the lenses and frames,” he added.
