Sunglasses: How to Choose the Right Ones!

It’s finally starting to feel like summer, and that means everyone is looking for new summer-style sunglasses. That being said, because they are eyeglasses, sunglasses should be chosen with care. Much more than a fashion accessory, sunglasses protect your eyes against UV rays. For that very reason, it would be unwise to buy sunglasses on impulse. To help keep your summer as clear and bright as possible, here is some advice to keep in mind the next time you go sunglasses shopping.

Why should I choose sunglasses so carefully?

First of all, we know the sun is harmful for your skin, but the truth is it is just as much so for your eyes. In protecting your eyes against UV rays, you can also prevent a number of eye problems and diseases, such as accelerated cataract development, macular degeneration, eyelid skin cancer, corneal sunburns, age spots and eye surface tissue growth.

Therefore, it is crucial that you find the lenses that best protect your eyes. Let’s take a closer look!

Differences between lenses

When choosing your lenses, you should respect three criteria: firstly, your sunglasses should block UV rays; secondly, they should be tinted appropriately for their intended use; and lastly, you must choose the right coating and have an up-to-date prescription to ensure optimal vision quality.

When it comes to lenses, there are two choices: glass (mineral) lenses, which are more resistant to scratches but more vulnerable to impact; or plastic (organic) lenses, which are the most impact-resistant but which scratch the easiest.

When it comes to coatings, you have a number of choices. Antireflective coating, which can be applied internally and/or externally to the lens, eliminates reflections and improves vision quality. Polarized coating is also a good choice, as it blocks all the sun’s whitish glare, and thus makes colours more vibrant and makes vision clearer.

UV Ray Protection Index

Before saying “yes” to a new pair of sunglasses, keep in mind that more opaque or more expensive lenses don’t necessarily offer the best protection. All in all, the best sunglasses are the ones that fit your lifestyle. Also, remember that all sunglasses sold by optical clinics are approved for protection level.

“Aesthetic” sunglasses are generally lightly tinted, blocking between 0% and 60% of visible light and UVA, and between 87.5% and 95% of UVB. These lenses are ideal for softer light settings, like at sunset.

All-use sunglasses, on the other hand, block between 60% and 92% of visible light and UVA, and between 95% and 99% of UVB. You can therefore wear them in the car or during sunny days.

Lastly, special-use glasses are perfect for the outdoors and for those who foresee spending a lot of time in the sun. These glasses block up to 97% of visible light, up to 98.5% of UVA, and at least 99% of UVB.

The right sunglasses for your face

The right sunglasses represent where your needs and your style meet. Indeed, in order to find the glasses that best suit your facial traits, you should respect your face shape.

Given all the reasons above, trying out your glasses in person is essential. So, even if the prices may seem attractive, avoid buying your new sunglasses online, as you may end up paying for a pair that simply doesn’t work for you.

We also recommend that you have your optician help you select new sunglasses. Whether it’s for you or for your child (whose eyes are even more sensitive), your eyecare professional will find what you need--both for style and protection!