Sunglasses - Must-Have Accessory

Spring, summer, winter and fall -- heatwave or blizzard, no matter the season true fashion lovers have their accessories lined up and laid out: handbag, cross-body bag, stilettoes, wingtips, belt, classic timepiece and statement jewelry. Ready to rock a Fedora and complete the fit with a fly pair of designer sunglasses, throwing shade at every turn. These are staple pieces all year long. Fair to say, we all agree that fashion eyewear is a must-have accessory that adds an element of mystery to any look.

Since we already know how to protect the skin from harsh weather elements, let’s talk about what’s needed to keep your treasured eyes healthy. You may or may not know UV (Ultraviolet) rays negatively impact your vision. UV ray wavelengths hover beyond the visible spectrum of light. These wavelengths produce ultraviolet radiation. These non-visible wavelengths are present in sunlight, so we are exposed to nominal amounts of radiation daily. UV amounts to about 10% of the total electromagnetic radiation output from the sun. Short wave UV light damages DNA and sterilizes surfaces when it makes contact. In short, UV has effects that benefit and harm us.

Most everyone wears sunscreen to protect their skin from cancer and potential risks. The most significant consequence of UV exposure to the eye is the growth of cataracts, a cloudy film over the eyeball that impairs vision. Cataracts are a common disorder that’s not just for folks over age 80 anymore. Younger individuals (50+) are getting diagnosed as well. Cataracts is progressive and can eventually lead to blindness. Thankfully, cataract surgery is available for those who need it. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, overexposure to UV does increase the risk of “muscular erosion, tumors on the eye, and rare form of eye cancer.”

Wearing sunglasses is associated with summertime coolness and swagger but know that UV-caused diseases are equal opportunists. The eyes need to be protected as much as the skin needs protection from sun overexposure. When shopping for protective eyewear, look for polarized and UV protective lenses that will shield the eyes from harmful UV waves.

Oversized shades such as the Aviator style of sunglasses help protect and cut down on UV waves entering from the sides. Polarized lenses reduce glare and eyestrain. UV400 built into lens is a key feature sunglasses should possess. Remember, just because they’re polarized does not mean they will protect from harmful rays. You must have both.

Because scientists cannot prove that there are no safe levels of UV exposure to the eyes, wearing quality sunglasses is essential when you are outside, no matter the weather or season. Vuliwear checks off every category of protective fashion eyewear with UV400 up to 100%, UVA/UVB, and polarized lenses on the entire collection. At Vuliwear, we not only produce style and quality products, but we are beacons in the eyewear industry who bring awareness on essential subjects to the consumer.