UV protection for your eyes: Why your sunglasses need to be more than just stylish

At any point through the year the sun is shining somewhere and that means plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities. While we all love soaking up the rays, it's crucial to protect our eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. But what exactly is UV light, and why should you care about it when choosing sunglasses? Let's dive in.

The UV spectrum: UVA, UVB, and UVC

Sunlight is made up of different types of light, including invisible UV radiation. There are three main types of UV light:

• UVA: This type of UV light has the longest wavelength and can penetrate deep into the skin and eyes. UVA rays are present all day long and can even pass through clouds and glass.
• UVB: UVB rays have a shorter wavelength than UVA and are primarily responsible for sunburns. They are most intense during midday hours and can be partially blocked by clouds.
• UVC: UVC rays have the shortest wavelength and are the most damaging to the skin and eyes. Fortunately, the Earth's is looking out for us and the ozone layer absorbs most UVC radiation.

The dangers of UV radiation to your eyes

Exposure to UV radiation can cause a range of eye problems, both short-term and long-term:

• Photokeratitis (Snow Blindness): This painful condition is like a sunburn on the cornea (the front surface of the eye). Symptoms include redness, a gritty feeling, and light sensitivity.
• Cataracts: Long-term UV exposure can contribute to the development of cataracts, a clouding of the lens of the eye that can lead to blurry vision and even blindness.
• Macular Degeneration: UV light may play a role in the development of this age-related disease, which affects the macula (the central part of the retina) and can cause central vision loss.

UVA and UVB: Your main concerns for sunglasses

When it comes to sunglasses, your primary focus should be on protection against UVA and UVB rays. These are the types that reach the Earth's surface and pose the greatest risk to your eyes. For aviators, the risk is even greater as the presence of UV rays increases with altitude.

UV400: The gold standard for UV protection

Not all sunglasses are created equal when it comes to UV protection. Look for sunglasses with a UV400 rating, like FLYTE sunglasses. This means the lenses block 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays up to 400 nanometers (the wavelength of UV light).

Why FLYTE sunglasses?

FLYTE sunglasses don't just protect your eyes; they also offer:

• Style: With a wide range of stylish designs, you'll find the perfect pair to complement your look.
• Comfort: Lightweight and durable frames ensure all-day comfort.
• Polarisation: Many FLYTE sunglasses feature polarised lenses, which reduce glare and enhance visual clarity. Consider whether this is right for you though, many pilots opt for non-polarised for a range of reasons.

Don't risk your vision

Protecting your eyes from harmful UV radiation is essential for maintaining good vision throughout your life. Invest in a quality pair of UV400 sunglasses, like FLYTE, and enjoy the sunshine without worrying about the long-term consequences.

Remember: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still reach your eyes. Make wearing sunglasses a daily habit, and your eyes will thank you.