How to Find the Right Sunglasses

Sunglasses come in many shapes, sizes and colors.

Sunglasses come in various styles and colors. Their primarily job is to protect the eyes from harsh rays. These not only come from sunshine, but from light reflected off roads, water and snow. Sunglasses are also a fashion accessory. A good pair of sunglasses should fit your face correctly. Look for a pair that accents your features. For example, round frames look best with square or oblong faces. Check the link in the references for guidance on face shapes.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror

Instructions

1. Decide how large you want the lens to be, lens type and what frame color you prefer. Gradient frames are darker on the top, to keep sunlight out, and lighter on the bottom. Double gradient lenses are darker on the tops and bottom. Mirror-coated lenses, which are more expensive than regular sunglass lenses, but filter out the sunlight by preventing much of it from passing through the lens. If you have a problem with glare, choose polarized or anti-reflective lenses. If you need to block blue light rays, use blue-blockers.

2. Choose sunglasses that fit. Round faces should try wide or geometric shapes. Diamond-shaped faces should try oval or square styles. Oval, cat-eyes and round frames work well for square faces. These include the iconic Jackie O style sunglasses. Oblong faces should stick with round or square shapes. Triangle faces benefit from cat-eyes or frames with a straight top, like Wayfarers.

3. Try on the sunglasses. If possible, look outside while trying them on to see how effectively they block sunlight. Check the packaging to see if the lenses have 100 percent UV protection. This will block the ultraviolet rays the sun gives off. Lenses that offer UVA and UVB protection are a better option.

4. Choose the pair that looks the best and blocks the correct amount of light.

Tips & Warnings

• Larger lens protect more of the face from the sun.

• Photochromic lenses, which change color based on the amount of sunlight, are available at optometrists and eye glasses shops.

• If you wear glasses and don't want prescription sunglasses, photochromic lenses or clip-on sunglasses, find a pair of large frames to fit over the frames.

References

• United Shades: Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Your Face
• All About Vision: FAQ Types of Sunglasses