Stop Glaring at Me

While summer’s golden rays show their affection with warmer temperatures and an outpouring of healthy vitamin D, they can damage your eyes. Solar radiation causes many vision impairments and diseases, including cataracts, macular degeneration, ocular cancer, pterygium (a benign growth on the eye), and photokeratitis (a corneal sunburn).

Minimize assault on your peepers with these tips for choosing the right sunglasses.

UV protection trumps price tag: You don’t have to pay top dollar for a pair of shades. UV absorption is what matters. The label should indicate at least 98% blockage of UVA and UVB rays (the waves that have the most damaging effect on your eyes).

Sunlight is deceptive. Keep in mind that the sun’s intensity can still attack when hidden by haze. Always wear your sunglasses between 10 AM and 4 PM (even earlier and for longer in high altitudes).

Style is important. Celebrity endorsed or not, the shape and fit of your glasses are critical. Choose lenses that wrap around to help filter out light slipping in through the sides, and make sure the frames are comfortably snug on your face.

Keep in mind some prescriptions like certain antibiotics and contraceptives can enhance your sensitivity to light, so talk to your doctor if you have concerns.