Sunglasses: Not Your Momma's Fashion Accessory Anymore

Clueless is not something I've ever been in regard to the wearing of sun glasses. A contact lens wearer since the age of 14, my ophthalmologist was ahead of her time when educating me on the benefits of protecting eyes from the sun's ultraviolet A and B rays. UVA and UVB are not just threats to skin but also pose a danger to eyes and thus healthy vision. Savvy sunglass sense is common sense applied to optimal eye health. Awareness is key to purchasing optimal eye protection.

Always remembering to protect your eyes whenever outside. This includes riding in a car; working in the garden; even in the winter time when shoveling snow. Anytime you are exposed to ultraviolet light your eyes need protection.

Seek out polycarbonate lenses. These are shatter resistant. All lens material should be tagged UVA/UVB protective; if they're not, don't buy 'em (this includes children's character sunglasses).

Polarized lenses reduce glare. Wraparounds are practical for day-long light exposure. Try on several pairs to get a feel for fit and visual field sight; sunglasses should never compromise or hinder vision.

Lens colors fluctuate with current fashion trends. Darker does not mean "better" and some color-changing lenses (photochromic) often don't correct to meet light swings. If possible, try glasses in diverse light(s).

Over the counter shades routinely tend to be optically impaired. Expect some distortion and/or magnification effect even from pricey designer glasses as they're not ophthalmologically correct.

Just wear 'em! Ultraviolet rays can contribute to cataract formation; hasten macular degeneration. You're never too young or old to "skip" eye protection.