As important as the sun is for mankind, it can be equally dangerous. It is a widely known fact that people must protect their skin from the sun in order to avoid long-term damage. Sunlight can also have a negative impact on the eyes.  The light’s wavelengths make the difference here – the shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy and also the riskier the radiation. Every area of the spectrum of radiation has a different impact. Dangerous and unpleasant: the sunlight’s reflections on smooth surfaces.
Blue light
The visible light represents a partial risk to the human eye. Especially in the region between 380 and 500 nanometers (nm), the visible blue light can cause damage to the eye. Irreversible photochemical reactions in the eye – such as macular degeneration, for example – can be a result of blue light.
For some time, there has been the possibility for the eyes to be protected from the hitherto underestimated blue light by means of sunglasses with special blue light filters.

Dangerous Reflections
Sunlight, which breaks on smooth surfaces, such as water or asphalt, generates an unpleasant glare. The reflected light is many times more intense than non-reflected light, and makes the eyes tire more quickly.  The future of sunglasses therefore lies with polarizing technology, through which reflections are eliminated, contrasts strengthened and colors perceived without distortion.

Check out our excellent optical dispensary in Palo Alto for a sunglass to protect your vision and fit your lifestyle. 

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Teresa Lui, Palo Alto Optometrist, Optical Boutique       (650) 321-9525        email info@drteresalui.com