Effective Sunglasses Are Easy to Find

Consumers who spend a lot of money on sunglasses because they want optimal protection for their eyes are spending more than they need to. Today's sunglasses, whether dime-store plastic-lens versions or designer glass classics, are equally adept at shielding your eyes from the sun's harmful, ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Ultraviolet light is thought to contribute to the cause of cataracts and macular degeneration of the retina. To assist in preventing this condition, even lens implants -- after cataract surgery, for example -- are treated to provide UV protection.

The industry standard for sunglasses is UV400, which protects your eyes from approximately 98 percent of ultraviolet light. But spending more money will not get you more protection. In fact, a study done in 1980 discovered that even clip-on sunglasses found typically at drugstores for less than $5 provided the protection needed.

Surprisingly, prescription glasses worn only for improved eyesight -- without any darkening capabilities -- provide a large measure of relief from ultraviolet light. And there is no difference between prescription sunglasses and non-prescription sunglasses in terms of sun protection.

Still, many people -- including fair-skinned individuals -- will be more comfortable wearing larger, darker sunglasses to protect sensitive eyes and avoid discomfort or headaches. And some individuals prefer polarized sunglasses, which reduce glare. This may provide additional comfort and improved vision, particularly if you're involved in water or snow sports, such as fishing or skiing.

If you don't like wearing sunglasses, wearing a wide-brimmed hat such as the common baseball cap will provide a great deal of protection from UV rays.

But for most people, sunglasses are as much a matter of style as comfort. Whether you're looking to express your personality or avoid the glare, buy sunglasses that you like, and you'll get the sun protection you need.

For more information or to set up an appointment, please call 414-456-7680.

Kenneth B. Simons, MD
Professor of Ophthalmology
Medical College of Wisconsin

Each year, Medical College of Wisconsin physicians care for more than 180,000 patients, representing nearly 500,000 patient visits. Medical College physicians practice at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital, the Milwaukee VA Medical Center, and many other hospitals and clinics in Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin.