The Science behind Sunglasses – How they Protect our Eyes from Sunlight

Sunglasses from Goodrich Optical are a popular accessory many people wear to protect their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. However, you may not be aware of the actual science behind sunglasses and how they protect our eyes. Lets explore the science behind sunglasses and how they protect our eyes from the sun.

Sunglasses are made with lenses that can be either polarized or non-polarized. Polarized lenses are coated with a special film that allows only vertical light rays to pass through while blocking horizontal light rays. This feature reduces glare, which is especially beneficial for activities such as driving or water sports. Non-polarized lenses, on the other hand, reduce the overall intensity of all light waves, but do not block specific types of light.

The most important feature of sunglasses is their UV protection. The sun emits a type of radiation called ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can be harmful to both our skin and our eyes. Excessive exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Sunglasses are designed to block this UV radiation from reaching our eyes.

Most high-quality sunglasses have lenses that have a UV-absorbing coating. This coating blocks 99 to 100 percent of UV radiation from entering the eyes. However, it is essential to ensure that the sunglasses you purchase have a UV protection level of at least 99 percent.

The color of the lenses in the sunglasses can also impact how well they protect our eyes. Lenses that are darker in color reduce the amount of visible light that enters the eyes, which in turn can cause the pupils to dilate. With dilated pupils, more UV radiation can enter the eyes, thus reducing the efficacy of the sunglasses. Therefore, it is important to choose sunglasses with lenses that provide the necessary level of protection without compromising visual clarity.

Another factor to consider is the shape and size of sunglasses. Sunglasses that fit snugly and cover a significant portion of the eyes can prevent UV rays from entering the eyes from the sides or top, where the sunglasses may not be able to provide sufficient coverage.

In conclusion, sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory. They are essential for protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays emitted by the sun. Choosing sunglasses with polarized lenses, a UV-protective coating, the right color and size, and a snug fit can provide the maximum protection for our eyes. So next time you step out into the sun, be sure to grab a pair of sunglasses from Goodrich Optical to keep your eyes safe and healthy.