Sunglasses

2008-06-10T19:58:00.000-07:00

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun!

Sunglasses help you in two important ways. They filter light and they protect your eyes from damaging ultra-violet (UV) rays. Mounting evidence shows that exposure to UV rays can damage your eyes. Long-term exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, or skin cancer around the eyelids. Sunglasses should be worn when you are outdoors so you can protect your eyes.

You should choose sunglasses that:

- reduce glare

- filter out 99-100% of UV rays

- protect your eyes

- are comfortable to wear

- do not distort colors.

Am I at risk for eye problems caused by UV rays?

Everyone is at risk for eye problems caused by the sun. Even children are at risk for damaging their eyes. The risk of sun related eye problems is higher for people who:

- spend long hours in the sun

- have had cataract surgery or have certain retina disorders

- are on certain medicines, such as tetracycline, sulfa drugs, birth control pills, diuretics, and tranquilizers that increase the eye's sensitivity to light.

What type of sunglasses should I get?

When you buy your sunglasses, look for a label that tells you how much UV radiation the lenses of the sunglasses reflect. Experts say that your sunglasses should block 99-100% of both UV-A and UV-B rays. You should also consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat along with your sunglasses. This will help to block the sunlight from overhead.

Do children need sunglasses?

Yes. Children are at special risk from the harmful effects of UV, since their eyes do not have the same ability as adults to protect from UV radiation.

Here are some helpful suggestions for choosing sunglasses for children:

- Check to make sure the sunglasses fit well and are not damaged,

- Choose sunglasses that fit your child's lifestyle-the lenses should be impact resistant and should not pop out of the frames,

- Choose lenses that are large enough to shield the eyes from most angles, Find a wide-brimmed hat for your child to wear along with the sunglasses.

Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Your Face

2008-06-10T19:36:00.000-07:00

Getting the Right Fit
The sunglass size should be in proportion with the face size. This means that smaller sunglasses are best for smaller faces; larger sunglasses for larger faces. The frame shape should contrast with, that is, be the opposite of, the shape of the face.

These tips must not be taken as rules but they can help you to choose your right frame.

Oval face
Almost any style works for oval face. Experiment with the latest looks, such as wraparounds or shields. Square shaped frames with gently rounded edges and higher temples also look good on an oval face.
Frame suggestions : Any frame shape

Round face
Frames should make the face appear longer and thinner. In general, look for frames equal to or slightly wider than the broadest part of the face. Minimize the curves and add definition with soft, angular, rectangular styles or double brow styles. Higher temples will create a longer profile. Sunglasses with brow bars also pull the eye upward, making the face appear longer.
Frame suggestions : Wider frames with angular / rectangular styles

Diamond shape
This face shape has wide or high cheekbones with a narrow forehead and chin. Oval sunglasses will soften the contour of the face, although softly curved square frames will work as well. Make sure the styles are no wider than the top of the cheekbones.
Frame suggestions : Oval, Square, Rimless

Square face
This face shape consists of a strong jawline, a broad forehead and wide cheekbones. Reduce the angles with soft, curvy styles that will give the face some definition such as cat-eye styles. The classic ovals also works well for this face shape.
Frame suggestions : Oval, Round, Cat Eyes

Oblong face
Widen and shorten the face with sunglass styles that do not extend beyond the widest part of the face. Round or square shapes will look great on this face. Frames with short horizontal and long vertical lines also work. Decorative or contrasting temples add width to the face.
Frame suggestions : Round, Square

Triangle shape
This face has a narrow jaw and a wide forehead. Soften the lower portion of the face by accenting the eye area. Styles such as cat- eyes should angle outward at the top corner and be wide enough to balance the jawline. You can also try metal frames with rimless bottoms.
Frame suggestions : Frames with a Straight Top Line, Cat Eyes

SKIN

Pale complexions
Try lightweight frames or those with a touch of colour such as rose or amber. Tortoiseshell frames suit fair complexions (avoid darker versions) but clear, blue or green tinged frames tend to drain colour from cheeks.

Dark complexions
Olive, Mediterranean, Golden or Asian skin and dark hair can look stunning in silver, gold or clear frames – but avoid black which can be too heavy.

Black Skins
All metallic frames suit black skins and amber often works well – be very careful with black frames, which can look spectacular or awful!

HAIR

Soft & curly
Enhanced by delicate shapes, rimless frames and translucent colours

Very curly
Choose a frame that follows your hairline. Classic small frames are advisable

Short
Geometric frames, or rounder frames look best

Very short
Bold colours and designs, as well as decorative styles

Long hair
Try the frames with both your hair up and down, as the change in style may alter the look of the frames

Source: United Shades

SUNGLASSES

Sunglasses

Choosing the Right Sunglasses for Your Face