Generally, local sunglasses are not good for eye protection because they often lack proper UV protection.
Understanding the Risks
The primary concern with sunglasses is their ability to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Exposure to these rays can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Skin cancer
- Vision damage
According to the reference, "cheap or locally available sunglasses are not UV protected." This means that while these glasses may reduce the glare from sunlight, they may not be shielding your eyes from the invisible but dangerous UV radiation.
Why UV Protection Matters
UV protection in sunglasses is not just about reducing glare; it is crucial for preserving your eye health. Here's a breakdown:
- UV-A Rays: Contribute to premature aging of the eyes and may cause cataracts.
- UV-B Rays: Directly contribute to sunburn, and they also damage the skin around the eyes and can cause eye conditions like pterygium.
- UV-C Rays: Mostly blocked by the atmosphere but are also harmful if exposure occurs.
How to Choose the Right Sunglasses
Here are some guidelines to follow when purchasing sunglasses to ensure you are getting adequate protection:
- Check for UV Protection: Look for sunglasses that are labeled as offering 100% UV protection or UV400 protection. These will block the harmful UV-A and UV-B rays.
- Consider Lens Material: Polycarbonate and CR-39 plastic lenses offer good impact resistance and UV protection.
- Think About Lens Color: Grey lenses provide the most accurate color perception; brown and amber lenses enhance contrast. However, the level of UV protection is independent of the color of the lens.
- Buy from Reputable Retailers: Avoid buying sunglasses from street vendors or very cheap, unbranded outlets, as these are more likely to lack proper UV protection.
- Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses can be helpful to reduce glare and are an extra layer of protection against bright light, however they do not offer additional UV protection.
Summary
| Feature | Local/Cheap Sunglasses | Reputable Sunglasses |
|---|---|---|
| UV Protection | Usually lack UV protection | 100% UV protection or UV400 |
| Lens Quality | Often low quality and lacking durability | High-quality, durable materials |
| Safety | May not protect against harmful UV rays | Designed to protect against harmful UV rays |
| Purchase Location | Often from unreliable vendors | Typically purchased at pharmacies or well-known retailers |
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to save money by purchasing inexpensive, locally sourced sunglasses, it is far more beneficial to your eye health to invest in sunglasses from a reputable source that offer 100% UV protection. Always ensure your sunglasses are certified to block both UVA and UVB rays.
