Vision correction is currently in demand, as the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that at least 2.2 billion people across the globe suffer from vision impairment. The leading causes for this phenomenon include refractive errors and cataracts, which can eventually lead to blindness if no interventions are done to address the symptoms.
For refractive errors, some of the most common disorders are myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism—all of which can be corrected by having the right prescription glasses or contact lenses. Nowadays, though, there is a need for eyewear that is both corrective and protective for the eyes, as exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is also on the rise. As such, prescription sunglasses are among the most relevant accessories today since they aid with both vision correction and UV protection.
What makes prescription sunglasses special?
A big pain point for many prescription glasses users is that being outdoors means they either have to make do with blurry vision as they swap their glasses for sunglasses or they must endure the sun’s rays through their normal eyewear. This is where prescription sunglasses come in. Essentially, prescription sunglasses stand out from other corrective eyewear as they are made with quality lenses and premium filters to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Using lightweight frames, these sunglasses can be fitted to your prescription with a wide array of tinted lenses that enhance your field of view when exposed to the sun. Since prescription sunglasses are specially designed for outdoor use, some will even have additional benefits like improved visual acuity, glare protection, and wider eye coverage. This makes them the perfect accessory to maintain sharp vision and keep your eyes comfortable while outside.
It is important to note that prescription sunglasses are not the same as transition lenses. Also known as photochromic lenses, these are eyeglasses fitted with chemicals that automatically make them darken when exposed to the sun or under UV light. They function similarly to prescription sunglasses, but they do not offer the same coverage of UV protection. Furthermore, not all transition lenses darken quickly enough to protect the eyes once exposed to sunlight, which can lead to discomfort, especially among those with sensitive eyes.
Advantages to using prescription sunglasses
Two of the most important features of prescription sunglasses are functionality and protection. UV protection for the eyes is becoming increasingly important since prolonged exposure to the sun can actually lead to eye damage. Over time, this can cause intraocular melanoma, conjunctival cancers, cataracts, macular degeneration, and eyelid cancers. Using prescription glasses can help combat UV rays and ensure comfort while you’re outdoors.
Additionally, they provide more convenience and accessibility since most people resort to wearing contact lenses to see clearly when they need to wear sunglasses. Contact lenses are not for everyone, as they have a tendency to trap bacteria in the eye and can be irritating for some. With prescription sunglasses, you won’t need to use contacts as you can experience the same ease of wearing regular corrective glasses but with the necessary tint or filters to double down on vision protection.
How to choose the right pair
Considering the wide array of frames and styles to choose from, it can be daunting trying to find the right pair for you. Generally, though, it’s best to choose a pair of sunglasses made with the right materials to ensure that they’re sturdy and fit your personal requirements.
For example, if you’re someone who goes to the beach or goes fishing for a hobby, you can consider getting sunglasses from Costa Del Mar, which is known for having sunglasses that are non-corrosive and can be fitted with polarized lenses to enhance vision while looking at a body of water. Alternatively, if you’re into running, cycling, or hiking outdoors, you may want to seek out frames from Oakley, as they are recognized for their lightweight and non-slip designs that can complement any sport while outdoors.
Overall, getting prescription sunglasses can provide you with more ease of use compared to other kinds of corrective accessories. Not only do they help you see clearly, but they come with special filters and frames that ensure your eyes are also protected from harmful UV rays. For more discussion and tips, please check out more of our health articles.
Earl Berg is a seasoned technology writer at Digital Overload, bringing over 10 years of experience in the tech industry to his role. Earl’s passion for technology and his knack for translating complex tech concepts into understandable language make his articles a favorite among readers. His coverage spans a wide range of tech topics, from gadget reviews and software updates to innovative breakthroughs in the tech industry. Earl is dedicated to providing his readers with honest, unique, and insightful content, always with an objective and open-minded approach. When he’s not immersed in the tech world, Earl enjoys hiking and photography.