If you’re on the hunt for a great new pair of sunglasses, you’ve probably come across a few different claims that you might not understand. With sunglasses, there are many words and phrases printed on the tags that claim certain things. When buying sunglasses, you want to make sure you are purchasing the right pair. The right pair of sunglasses will properly protect your eyes from the harsh sun rays.

While shopping to find a pair of sunglasses, you’ve probably come across words like “polarized” or “UV protection,” but what does it actually mean? Not all sunglasses are made the same so when out looking for a new pair, it’s important to know what to look for.

What are UV Protection Sunglasses?
To be considered a UV protection pair of sunglasses, the lenses need to protect at least 75%-90% of all visible light. Additionally, UV sunglasses need to offer UVA and UVB protection in order to protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This may all sound like some scientific mumbo jumbo, so let’s break it down.

There are many different rays that come from the sun. Each different type of ray can be damaging to our skin and eyes after prolonged exposure. That is why it’s recommended to wear sunscreen when out in the sun too long. The most potentially damaging rays from the sun are the ultraviolet rays. The UVA and UVB rays are a type of ultraviolet ray from the sun.

UVB rays are known for giving you sunburn. UVA rays are able to penetrate deeper into the skin and can cause premature aging. UVA rays can also pass through the eye’s cornea and reach the retina. UVB rays cannot pass through glass from a sunglass lens, but can also be damaging to your eye with proper exposure.

Needless to say, it’s within your best interest to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays and wear sunglasses whenever possible. Not only will you look stylish while out and about, but you will also be responsible for taking care of your eyes.

So back to those buzzwords that sunglass companies like to use to describe the benefits of their sunglasses. The most common type of protective sunglasses is called UV 400 sunglasses. This means that sunglasses with UV 400 protection shield your eyes from almost 100% of the harmful ultraviolet rays. The number 400 comes from the wavelengths at which the rays travel. So with UV 400 sunglasses, they are protecting your eyes from wavelengths of up to 400 nanometers.

So, if you are concerned about sun exposure to your eyes, you should definitely invest in sunglasses with UV 400 protection. If you are unsure where to start, check out the stylish collection from Runaways. At Runaways, you can find a great selection of sunglasses from any style, color, or level of protection.

Check out what they have to offer at wearerunaways.com or give them a call at 619-736-5301.