Which Sunglasses Are Better, UV or UVB?
Sunglasses are the best defense for your eyes against ultraviolet (UV) rays. Frequent exposure to sunlight leads to damage in and around the eyes over time. Therefore, it is wise that you wear sunglasses every time you head outdoors, even if you plan on being outside for only a few minutes. Choosing sunglasses isn't always a simple task. There are different types of sunglasses, all offering different levels of UV protection. For the best results, look for glasses labeled as offering "100% UV protection." If you have concerns about UV exposure to your eyes, see an ophthalmologist.
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UV Rays
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There are three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB and UVC rays. UVB rays are the most well-known. According to AllAboutVision.com, UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and premature aging. UVA rays can damage your eye's cornea and retina. Overtime, UVA rays may cause cataracts and macular degeneration. UVC rays are the most powerful of all UV rays. AllAboutVision.com explains UVC rays are blocked by the Earth's ozone layer. However, the ozone layer is at risk of depletion, so UVC rays could potentially put your eye health at risk in the future.
Types of Sunglasses
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UV sunglasses protect against UVA and UVB rays. Since UVC rays don't penetrate through the ozone, sunglasses that block these rays aren't on the market, as of 2011. UVB sunglasses don't protect against UVA rays. Sunglasses are available for purchase at clothing stores, department stores and even grocery stores. As long as the sunglasses offer UV protection, they are safe to use. More expensive designer sunglasses are available at specialty stores as well, but they don't necessarily offer more UV protection than cheaper versions. If you wear prescription eyeglasses, consider getting transition lenses, so you don't have multiple lenses to worry about.
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Considerations
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Some sunglasses are available on the market that don't offer any UV protection at all. According to MayoClinc.com, certain types don't have UV protective shields unless you ask the manufacturer to put them on the lenses. Polarized lenses, a type of sunglasses to reduce glare, is one example. The UV protection offered by blue-blocking lenses is also questionable. To be safe, only purchase sunglasses that offer 100 percent protection against UV rays.
Prevention/Solution
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UV sunglasses protect your eyes more effectively than UVB sunglasses. The former protects against UVA and UVB rays, versus only one type. Each type of ultraviolet ray can cause long-term damage to the eye in some form. Keep in mind that UV rays can also damage the skin around the eyes, causing wrinkles or even skin cancer. MayoClinic.com recommends wearing large lenses for optimal protection. If you wear contacts, ensure that you still wear sunglasses when you head outside. Also, wear sunglasses on overcast days, as UV rays still penetrate through the clouds.
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References
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