Zips Tips: Why you should wear sunglasses
Choosing Sunglasses to Protect Your Eyes
Individuals can protect their eyes by simply wearing sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 percent of UV. Such glasses protect the eye from both UV-A—and the more harmful—UV-B rays. Studies show that exposure to ultraviolet light can contribute to a number of ocular complications, including: photokeratitis or “snow blindness”; cataracts; pterygium (an abnormal growth on the eye’s surface); macular degeneration; and even cancer.
Protecting the eyes in the sun.
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Never look directly at the sun, even through sunglasses, because doing so can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
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Choose sunglasses that block out 99 to 100 percent of UV. Such glasses protect the eye from both UV-A—and the more harmful—UV-B rays.
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Outdoor workers who are heavily exposed to sunlight should protect their eyes with UV- blocking sunglasses.
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Tinted “fashion” glasses without UV protection cause more harm than wearing no glasses.
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Wear sunglasses and a hat if taking medications that increase the sensitivity of the eyes to light, such as tetracycline (Achromycin V, Sumycin) or allopurinol (Aloprim, Zyloprim).
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Know that if you have an eye disease such as macular degeneration, you’re at increased risk of UV-related eye damage.
Choose your color wisely
Different lens tints filter different wavelengths of light. Some may enhance or distort colors and affect contrast. Select tint based on need.
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Green—Allows true color perception and good contrast in bright light; reduces eyestrain in bright light.
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Gray—Allows true color perception, but does not enhance contrast; good for cycling or running.
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Brown—Good in hazy sun, enhances contrast; good for high-glare environments.
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Amber—Brightens cloudy, hazy, or foggy skies; excellent for contrast; minimizes eyestrain; distorts color (images look yellow-orange).
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Yellow—Improves contrast and depth perception in low light; good for overcast days.
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Red—Excellent depth perception in low light; contrast objects against blue or green back- grounds.
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Mirrored—Reflects high-intensity light to reduce glare; available in various colors.
Source: Texas Department of Insurance
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