Cool? Or Tool?

When packing for your vacation don’t forget to include your sunglasses – AKA "shades." Sunglasses can be a fashion statement but more importantly they can help to prevent eye damage which could lead to blindness.

Everyone benefits from wearing sunglasses. The lenses protect the eyes from ultra-violet radiation. Certain population segments are higher risks candidates and should take greater care. Children’s eyes have relatively transparent lenses which allow for the eye’s retina to receive more of the ultra-violet rays. People who live, work or play around snow, water, light sand or other reflective surfaces are doubly exposed to UVR since it can be intensified as it is reflected back to the eye. Blue eyed, fair skinned people are more sensitive since their pigmentation does not block the UVRs as well. Individuals taking certain medications can have a lower photosensitivity. Visually impaired people sometimes don’t realize the intensity of the sun’s rays and should take greater care so that further eye damage isn’t done.

Sunglass colors go far beyond vanity. Different colors and shades are an important part of lens selection. Amber and orange tints can block out blue light which can reduce the risk of macular degeneration of the retina. Dark gray or green lenses can reduce the amount of light allowed to enter the eye. Brown or rose colored lenses allow for a greater contrast so that things such as road signs can be seen more clearly. The most important factor is to choose a lens that blocks 100 percent of the ultra-violet radiation.

What the glasses are made of is a personal choice. Choose the material that best fits your lifestyle. Choose the style that best fits your face. While you’re on vacation, you will be doing things which cause greater exposure to UVRs. Protect yourself and don’t forget your "shades!" You want your vacation to be OUTTA SIGHT!