When the sun is bright and the weather is right people grab their sunglasses and head out for a day of fun. However it should be noted that these fashionable accessories should even be used on cloudy, overcast days as well.
Why is this, you might ask? Sunglasses are designed to protect our eyes against strong light, blue light, and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.
These harsh rays are present even when we can't see the sun with our naked eye. Optometrists and other eye care professionals strongly recommend wearing a pair of quality sunglasses whenever a person is outside to prevent any damage or eye problems that could result from exposure to these UV rays.
Although eye protection is the primary objective of sunglasses, they also make a fashion statement, and many people consider them to be an all-important accessory. Designs have come a long way since sunglasses were first invented, and they are available today in a myriad of styles, ranging from multi-colored and mirrored (two-way) lenses, to frames made of plastic, nylon, metal or a metal alloy. Most celebrities own several pair of sunglasses, and are often shown on the front page of tabloids, sporting their funky eyewear.
There are several other uses for sunglasses as well. One may wear them for that "incognito" look and of course some like to wear some of the very dark lenses to try for an ultra cool look. You might also use them to hide eyes that are red or weepy.
Sports enthusiasts use sunglasses when participating in such glare-inducing activities as surfing, windsurfing, mountain-climbing, kayaking, snow skiing and water skiing. Sunglasses can be used to keep the wind, dirt and sand from your eyes, and hey, they even keep some forms of pollen from making you teary eyed. Even astronauts can use sunglasses. The sunlight in space is far more intense and harmful than on Earth, because there is no atmosphere in space in which to filter the rays.
If you've spent a decent amount of money on your sunglasses, you'll want to keep them in like-new condition for many years. To accomplish this, they must be cared for properly.
By far, the most important thing to do is use a sturdy carrying case for your sunglasses, which will help prevent them from being crushed by someone sitting on them, or being broken if you drop them. Softer sunglass cases will prevent scratches to the lens portion of your glasses but don't offer as much protection for the frames.
Using a proper cleaning solution for the lenses is also highly recommended by both vision experts and sunglass manufacturers. These solutions may be purchased, or a homemade solution can be made from a little mild dishwashing soap and some tap water.
Always use a soft, lint free cloth while cleaning the lenses, never a paper towel, which could scratch them. After a while, dirt and dust will accumulate on the nose pads which can be annoying and visually unappealing.
To effectively remove any dirt or stains on the soft nose pads of sunglasses you can soak non-polarized lenses in water for 30 minutes to loosen the grime and then clean using a soft toothbrush. Finally you should check often to make sure those tiny hinge screws are tightened properly.
There are small eyeglass repair kits that can help you tighten the screws if needed. If you see something that seems to be majorly amiss you should take them to your eyewear professional for repair. Trying to repair a major problem with expensive sunglasses could void your warranty.
Jason Thompson writes for PolarisedSunnies.com.au, specialising in mens sunglasses and cycling sunglasses.
