Written by Arielle Faeldan | August 16, 2019
As the saying goes, eyes are the window to the soul. That being said, optimal eye health is paramount. Vision is one of -if not- the most important of the five senses. It doesn’t take much to damage your vision, but healthy eyes can be achieved by ensuring you are doing your part.
Here’s what you need to know…
Most people are aware of the skin cancer risks associated with too much sun exposure. That’s why we’re always told to apply sunscreen before heading out the door. But did you know that protecting your eyes are just as important? Good news is that eye protection is as easy as protecting your skin.
Proper UVA and UVB protection is often overlooked when buying sunglasses online. Long exposure to UV rays can result in many health problems including cataracts, burns, macular degeneration, and rare occasions – cancer.
What are UV Rays?
Contrary to the name, UV light can’t be seen by the naked eye. Ultraviolet radiation, as it is scientifically known, has three categories that can have different consequences.
UVA
This category has the lowest energy but can still cause damage if overexposed to it. These rays can pass through the cornea and reach the inside of the eye. Cataracts are the most common eye symptom attributed to this UV, although there are studies that link UVA to the macular degeneration.
UVB
These rays are partially filtered through the ozone layer. Those that make it through ozone is what causes our skin to tan and may also lead to health problems.
With a low exposure, these rays will at most assist in the production of melanin (skin pigment), which darkens the skin, creating a suntan. In higher exposure, this radiation level can sunburn the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Additional health problems can include skin discoloration, wrinkles, and premature aging signs.
Eye damage can also be associated with prolonged exposure to these rays including photokeratitis (known as “snow blindness”), pinguecula, and pterygium.
UVC
Considered to have the highest energy level of ultraviolet radiation and the most harmful to the eyes and skin. Fortunately, the earth’s ozone layer in the atmosphere blocks all of these UVC rays. However, with the on-going climate crisis and depletion of the ozone layer… this could potentially allow these strong and harmful rays to reach the surface, causing serious health problems for all.
Your Vision.
Eye Safety
Think of it this way: sunglasses are to eyes what sunscreen is to skin. Proper eye protection is the best defense against dangerous UV rays. Carl Zeiss lenses are ultra-premium, impact resistant and optically pure. Providing 100% protection from UVA, UVB and Blue Light (from technology) with precise clarity.
IVI’s product line relies on these industry-defining lenses from Carl Zeiss, in addition to innovative handcrafted designs all made from premium materials such as Italian acetate from Mazzucchelli 1849 and aerospace-grade aluminum.
Without compromising style for functionality, IVI delivers high-quality premium eyewear for everyone. Varying styles for active adventurers to trendy and eye-catching frames for fashionistas.
To protect the delicate skin around your eyes, sunglasses with close-fitting wrap around styles like our LIVIDITY / JIVING for men and BONNIE / DUSKY for women. Large lenses also help protect more surface of the epidermis, providing more coverage from UVA and UVB rays.
Additional Tips…
It’s important to see your optometrist regularly to help avoid or reduce vision problems. Eye care professionals suggest getting a dilated exam every year or two. An eye exam will determine if your prescription has changed over time. Wearing an incorrect prescription is damaging to your eyesight, which is why regular check-ups are critical.
Sunglasses help protect your eyes from irritants, like dust and pollen as common materials for irritation. Make it a point to wear eye protection when outdoors or doing work involving a high risk of eye injury.
Finally, it’s important to limit the amount of time you spend in front of technology monitors. Smartphones, tablets, and computer screens emit Blue Light in which the effects are similar to UV Rays.
To get the best bang for your buck, IVI‘s premium eyewear provides high-quality Carl Zeiss lens with every pair. All of our products are prescription-friendly, customizable to fit every face shape. Our services offer free shipping and returns.
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