High-quality sunglasses usually are expensive. So why not buy cheap sunglasses that look almost the same? Or are cheap sunglasses bad for your eyes?
Key factors when buying sunglasses include:
UV protection
It's important that your sunglasses provide 100 percent UV protection. This will shield your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays that can cause long-term eye damage and even permanent vision loss.
Don't assume cheap sunglasses provide this level of protection, even if a sticker on the lenses says, "blocks UV."
Optical quality
Cheap sunglasses might seem to provide clear vision when you first try them on, but after you wear them a full day, you might experience eye strain if the optical quality of the lenses is less than it should be.
This can be due to the inexpensive type of lens material used and possible warping of the lenses in the frame.
Impact resistance
Sometimes, lenses in cheap sunglasses don't provide the level of impact resistance that meets U.S. standards.
Don't take chances. For the best impact resistance, choose lightweight polycarbonate lenses.
The most important reasons to wear sunglasses are to shield your eyes from damaging rays from the sun, to enable you to see clearly and comfortably in conditions ranging from bright sunlight to overcast haze, and to protect your eyes from injury or irritation.
Don't fall for offers of cheap sunglasses unless you can verify the lenses provide the UV protection, optical quality and durability found in more expensive sunglasses.
READ RELATED: Are expensive sunglasses actually better than cheap ones?
A skilled optician can help you determine the quality of your current sunglasses and choose quality sunglasses that provide the clarity, comfort and eye protection you need.
READY TO SHOP FOR SUNGLASSES? Find an optical store near you or online.
