OPTICAL PRISM | VISION & VOICE
How can patients select the right sunglasses to protect their eyes ?
“ Styles of sunglasses are influenced by fashion trends and individual preferences , but the key to full UV protection is in lens treatments . Optimal lens treatments start with a higher index and specific lens material that provides visual clarity , impact resistance and lighter weight . Additionally , different lens coatings can provide polarization , anti-scratching , anti-glare and UV protection . Above all , an accurate prescription that matches your visual needs is essential to finding the right sunglasses .”
BRIDGITTE SHEN LEE , OD , FAAO , FBCLA , FEAOO , Optometrist and medical advisor to The Vision Council .
“ Sunglasses can have a fixed level of darkness ( fixed tint ) or have a variable level of darkness depending on the light conditions ( variable tint or photochromic ). If you ’ re using sunglasses on bright days , the lens needs to be quite dark and will transmit only 10-15 per cent of visible light through the lens . Photochromic lenses offer enormous flexibility for most lighting conditions . Most quality plastic lenses offer almost complete UVA and UVB protection .”
DR . NATALIE HUTCHINGS , Associate professor & associate director of academics and student affairs , Optometry & Vision Science at the University of Waterloo .
“ Choose sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB . Consider polarized lenses to protect you from distracting glare , making driving safer and enhancing certain sporting activities . Try different coloured tints to see which is the most visually comfortable for you .”
DR . JEFF GOODHEW , Abbey Eye Care , Oakville .
“ As summer approaches , our eyes are at increased risk of damage from UV rays . While tinted lenses reduce brightness , they do not always sufficiently block UV light . Patients should always ask for proper UV protection such as the ClearView ® UV coating we offer at Dr ’ s Choice Optical Lab . For activities such as water sports and driving , our ClearView ® Polarized lenses are a great choice to reduce glare . For driving , gradient tints are stylish and useful for seeing the dashboard . For people on the go , photochromic lenses make a great all-in-one choice for sun protection that adapts to changing light levels . For those who want to make a statement , we suggest our ClearView ® SMART ® Mirror Coatings which can be both stylish and protective . This summer make the choice to protect your eyes with proper sunwear for any activity .”
JOSEPH COWARD , Dr ’ s Choice Optical Lab .
PHOTO CREDIT : TAMARA BELLIS , UNSPLASH
8 OPTICAL PRISM | May 2021