Protect your eyes from the summer sun

Most savvy sun seekers wouldn't think of stepping outside without first lathering up with sunscreen. But most people forget about - or are unaware of - the importance of protecting their peepers from the sun.

Sunglasses are more than a fashion accessory. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, studies have found that people who don't wear eye protection have up to three times more cataracts than people who wear sunglasses or brimmed hats. In addition, overexposure to the sun can cause retinal damage, headaches and photokeratitis - sunburn of the eye.

When shopping for shades, the most important thing to look for is a UV-blocking feature. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is linked to eye disease. To protect yourself, sunglasses should block or absorb at least 99% of UV rays.

For all-around comfort, your best bet is to buy sunglasses that have both UV protection and polarization. According to Lenscrafters, polarized lenses cut the reflected glare of sunlight that bounces off that car in front of you while you're driving. The bright, reflected light is blocked, and your vision remains sharper and clearer. Since polarized lenses can have an "x-ray" effect in or around water, they're especially appealing if you engage in water sports.

While sunglasses can make a fashion statement, you don't have to go Jack Nicholson-dark to protect your eyes or your image. The degree of lens darkness is unrelated to the ability of the lens to block out UV light.

Wraparound shades are not only timeless classics, but they protect your eyes from all angles, since light won't shine around the edges of the frames. Wraparounds may be especially appealing to allergy sufferers, as they can keep dust and pollen out of your eyes.

Blue-blocking sunglasses - usually amber or brown tints - enhance colors and sharpen contrast, making them perfect for driving in haze or fog, and for water and snow sports.

If you're a contact lens wearer, you may want to get contacts with built-in UV protection. Otherwise, you still need to wear sunglasses. And shades are a must if you're on photosensitizing drugs - like tetracycline - which make your eyes and your skin more susceptible to sunburn.

Whichever sunglasses you choose, keep in mind that eye protection is always in style.

Sorting it Out

Labels on sunglasses use many different terms. Here's a key to what they mean:

UV Protection: By adding chemicals to lens material during manufacturing or by applying lens coatings, manufacturers boost the ultraviolet (UV) protection factor in sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that say "99% UV protection" or "UV absorption up to 400nm."

Infrared Protection: While some manufacturers make infrared-related health claims, research has not shown a close connection between eye disease and infrared rays.

Blue-Blocking: There's controversy over whether blue light is harmful to the eye, but amber lenses can improve contrast and makes distant objects appear more distinct.

Whichever sunglasses you choose, keep in mind that eye protection is always in style.

Polarized: While it has nothing to do with UV absorption, polarization can cut down the glare while driving or being near the water.

Gradient: Permanently shaded from top to bottom, gradient lenses can cut glare from the sky but allow you to see clearly below. They're great for driving, but not good for the beach.

Photochromic: While the idea of a glass lens that darkens in bright light and lightens in low light is cool, it takes time for the lenses to adjust to different light conditions.

Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology, www.eyenet.org

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