Sunglasses Blog

The Plastic Sunglasses that we sell are absolutely stunning and we offer an incredible selection of them. Everything from oversized aviators to sleek and sporty styles. There’s something for everyone here. We’ve got a great array of colors from blue to black to radical looking red. These are terrific looks for men and women. Each pair is reasonably priced at $19.94 per pair. This is an incredible buy for such amazing sunglasses. Just because they’re plastic doesn’t mean they’re cheap. You’re getting amazingly quality eyewear for not a lot of money.

Special for The Republic
Nov. 8, 2007 08:34 AM

Dr. Jay L. Schwartz, is team ophthalmologist for the Phoenix Suns, the Diamondbacks, and the Coyotes. Schwartz Laser Eye Center is located at 18275 N. 59th Avenue, Ste. B-108, Glendale, AZ 85308. Contact Dr. Schwartz at 480-483-3937, or at www.schwartzlaser.com.

Question: Why is it important to protect your eyes in Arizona?

Answer: The sun emits ultraviolet radiation that can be dangerous to the tissue that composes the eye. The different spectrum of UV radiation has been shown to cause dryness, discoloration, cataracts, and macular degeneration as well as increase the chances of developing eye-related cancer.

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Q: How are eyes damaged when directly or indirectly exposed to the sun?

A: Ultraviolet means “beyond violet,” which is the shortest wavelength of light that our eyes can detect. Thus UV rays are light that we know is there but cannot see. The radiation excites DNA molecules in skin cells, leading to mutations, which can result in cancerous growths. The UV radiation damages collagen tissue that is important for the skin and thus leads to early signs of aging.

Q: What are the short and and long-term consequences?

A: In the short term the eyes may be dry, irritated and blurry. There can be an increase in the blood flow to the eye, thus creating that look of “red eyes.” Long-term exposure to UV radiation causes irreparable damage to the eye tissue. This can lead to pingueculae and pterygium, common growths seen on the eye. Lid cancers can also be caused by long-term sun exposure. This can be visually damaging and even life-threatening. Cataracts can also be a side effect of long-term exposure. However, the potential for damage to the central vision, or macula, would have the most sight-threatening potential.

Q: Are children more susceptible to eye damage?

A: Children are more vulnerable than adults to the potentially eye-harming effects of the sun’s UV radiation. For one thing, they spend more time outdoors. The more UV exposure, the greater the eventual risk of cataracts (clouding of the lens) and macular degeneration (breakdown of the central part of the retina). That doesn’t mean you need to obsess about shielding your kids from the sun or worry about the occasional, inevitable lapses. You should encourage kids to wear sunglasses when they’re outdoors, though, even on cloudy days. Letting children choose their own sunglasses - and setting an example by wearing a pair yourself - boosts the likelihood that they’ll wear them. Wraparound styles protect the eyes from all angles. If they refuse to wear sunglasses, a broad-brimmed hat can reduce UV exposure. Moreover, limiting exposure to the sun when its rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., is another preventive measure.

Q: Should I have my eyes regularly checked by an ophthalmologist?

A: Your eyes are an extremely delicate and evolved organ. Yearly examinations by an optometrist or ophthalmologist are the only way to ensure that the eyes are functioning in an optimal manner. Certain eye conditions can take years to evolve and yet preventive measures can be instituted early to avoid long-term effects.

Q: What’s the best pair of sunglasses on the market?

A: You should look for sunglasses that provide at least 98 percent protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Polarization will help in a lot of circumstances as well. Polarized sunglasses can be used for driving and, in fact, can reduce glare from a long, flat surfaces such as the hood of the car or the road’s surface. Polarized sunglasses can also be used indoors by light-sensitive people, including post-cataract surgery patients and those continually exposed to bright light through windows.

Sunglasses can be both beneficial and fashionable. Living in the desert, we are exposed to more sunlight and thus more UV radiation. Practical measures can be used to protect the eyes from the damaging effects of the sun.

Q: Where can I go to get my eyes checked?

A: At the Schwartz Laser Eye Center we have two locations that can provide comprehensive eye examinations. The Glendale and Scottsdale location have state-of-the-art equipment.

Source: azcentral.com

If you’re looking to pick up a pair of Discount Sunglasses this is the place to do it. What we sell are not cheaply made but are sunglasses at a reduced cost. Nothing can be better than excellent quality UV400 Protected eyewear with the terrific advantage as well of shatterproof optical quality lenses. There is a difference between discount and cheap and just by shopping here you’ll learn that mighty fast! The quality is immense and the style is incredible. You just have to shop here to know. Why not do that at just $19.94 per pair and find out yourself?

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Want to learn more how you can take advantage of Free Shipping? It’s not hard at all when you’re here shopping with us. Simply by spending $25 or more and living in the

U.S.

are the prerequisites to qualify. It’s really a no brainer anyway that you’ll want to pick up more than one pair of sunglasses or grab some Sunglass Accessories along with the eyewear and the shipping will automatically be free and your item(s) to you within 2-7 days.

Looking for help with any of your order questions or have questions about any of our products? Well then you’ll want to get help with any of your questions on our Help Page. First, you can do so by contacting us through our Help Page. There you can either fill out a form with your request, or call the numbers on the page during the specified business hours. Lastly, don’t forget our Live Help. When you see that Live Help is online, then a representative can help you on the spot.

There are lots of good reasons to register with an online account here with us. Simply go to the My Account page. There you’ll find all of the fantastic reasons why you should sign up after registering. It simply streamlines the ordering process so when you come back to order, you’re already in the system. It also helps to maintain order history and simplifies your checkout and if necessary a return. One who has an account is also privvy to special promotions, plus earns a loyalty point for each dollar spent.

Designer Sunglasses Are They Really Worth The Money
By Susan Dean

It really depends on whom you ask about designer sunglasses being worth it or not. Many people will tell you they are and then many people will tell you they are not. It all comes down to priorities. What one person holds dear another may not. Some people believe if you pay a lot of money for designer sunglasses then you have the best but what is the best?

Sure, paying for a name brand you would think would guarantee you a pair of glasses that are made from very good materials and would give you maximum UV protection from the sun. And most likely this is true for many brands. But there are still reputable manufacturers out there that make maximum UV protection sunglasses that are also fashionable and long lasting for budget prices. They just do not have a designer name attached to them.

For the majority of people who do buy sunglasses, a designer name is not important and that is probably because they know they cannot afford them so they look to prices they can afford. The fashion industry is a very fierce industry and in this day and age there are many manufacturers producing sun protective eyewear so it will always be a competitive market. This is good for you the consumer because that means bargains.

If you look around and in particularly online you will find that there are lots of opportunities to find a great looking pair of sunglasses that also offer maximum UV protection. You do not need designer brand names. But of course if you do want a designer pair then you will also find discounted options when looking online.

The important thing is that you find a pair that you like the look of, has high UV protection and is at a price that you can afford. Any product is only worth it if you can afford it.

Source: Sunglassessocool

A number of scientific studies indicate that spending long hours in the sun without eye protection can damage your eyes by contributing to cataracts, macular degeneration and growths on the eye, including cancer. Based on these studies, ophthalmologists recommend that you wear 99 percent and above UV-absorbent sunglasses and a brimmed hat whenever you’re in the sun for long periods of time.

When to Wear Sunglasses

Sunglasses should be worn anytime you are outdoors, particularly under these circumstances:

* During the summer, when the level of ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is at least three times higher than during the winter
* When at the beach or in the water
* When participating in winter sports, especially at high altitudes
* When using medications that can cause photosensitivity

What to Look for When Purchasing Sunglasses

Most sunglasses are designed to protect our eyes from the sun’s harmful effects. Often the labels on sunglasses promise protection from ultraviolet light and other kinds of natural radiation. It is important to know what kind of light you need to protect your eyes from and what type of light is not necessarily harmful.

Blocks 99 Percent of Ultraviolet Rays
You should always buy sunglasses with this feature. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight is linked to eye disease. UVB radiation is considered more dangerous to the eyes and skin than UVA radiation.

Both plastic and glass lenses absorb some UV light, but UV absorption can be improved by adding chemicals to the lens material during manufacturing or by applying special lens coatings.

Look for sunglasses that block 99 percent or 100 percent of all UV light. Some manufacturers’ labels say “UV absorption up to 400nm.” This is the same thing as 100 percent UV absorption.

Ground and Polished
Some nonprescription glasses are ground and polished to improve the quality of the lenses. Nonprescription lenses that are not ground and polished will not hurt your eyes.

You do want to make sure that the lenses you buy are made properly. To judge the quality of nonprescription sunglasses, look at something with a rectangular pattern, such as floor tile. Hold the glasses at a comfortable distance and cover one eye. Move the glasses slowly from side to side, then up and down. If the lines stay straight, the lenses are fine. If the lines wiggle, especially in the center of the lens, try another pair.

Impact Resistant
All sunglasses must meet impact standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for safety.

No lens is truly unbreakable, but plastic lenses are less likely than glass lenses to shatter when hit by a ball or stone.

Most nonprescription sunglass lenses are plastic. Polycarbonate plastic, used in many sports sunglasses, is especially tough, but it scratches easily. If you buy polycarbonate lenses, look for ones with scratch-resistant coatings.

Polarized
Polarized lenses cut reflected glare - sunlight that bounces off smooth surfaces like pavement or water. They can be particularly useful for driving and fishing.

Polarization has nothing to do with UV light absorption, but many polarized lenses are now combined with a UV-blocking substance. Check the label to make sure the lenses provide maximum UV protection.

Lens Darkness
A medium lens is good for day-to-day wear, but if you use the glasses for very bright conditions, choose a darker lens.

The color and the degree of darkness do not tell you anything about the lenses’ ability to block UV light.

Photochromic
A photochromic glass lens automatically darkens in bright light and becomes lighter in low light. Most of the darkening takes place in about half a minute, while the lightening takes about five minutes. Photochromic lenses come in a uniform or gradient tint.

Although photochromic lenses may be good UV-absorbent sunglasses (again, the label must state this benefit), it takes time for them to adjust to different light conditions.

Wraparound Style
Wraparound glasses are shaped to keep light from shining around the frames and into your eyes.

Studies have shown that enough UV rays enter around ordinary eyeglass frames to reduce the benefits of protective lenses. Large-framed wraparound sunglasses can protect your eyes from all angles.

Gradient Lenses
Gradient lenses are permanently shaded from top to bottom or from top and bottom toward the middle.

Single-gradient lenses (dark on top and lighter on the bottom) can cut glare from the sky but allow you to see clearly below. They are useful for driving because they don’t dim your view of the dashboard. They’re not as good, however, at reducing glare in snowy surroundings or at the beach.

Double-gradient lenses (dark on top and bottom and lighter in the middle) may be better for sports where light reflects up off the water or snow, such as sailing or skiing. Double-gradient lenses are not recommended for driving because they make the dashboard appear dim.

Mirror-Coated
Mirror finishes are thin layers of various metallic coatings on an ordinary lens. Although they do reduce the amount of visible light entering your eyes, do not assume they will fully protect you against UV radiation.

Blocks 90 Percent of Infrared Rays
Infrared wavelengths are invisible and produce heat. Sunlight has low levels of infrared rays, and the eye tolerates infrared well. Some sunglass manufacturers make health claims for their products based on infrared protection, but research has not shown a close connection between eye disease and infrared rays.

Blue-Blocking
Whether blue light is harmful to the eye is still controversial.

Lenses that block all blue light are usually amber colored and make your surroundings look yellow or orange. The tint supposedly makes distant objects appear more distinct, especially in snow or haze. For this reason, amber sunglasses are popular among skiers, hunters, boaters and pilots.

Some People Are at Greater Risk for UV-Related Eye Damage

Some studies show that people with certain eye diseases such as macular degeneration and retinal dystrophy may be at greater risk for UV-related sun damage. As a precaution, they should wear sunglasses whenever they go outside.

Cataract Surgery Patients
One million Americans have cataract surgery each year. During this procedure, the eye’s lens is removed, leaving the eye more vulnerable to UV light.

During cataract surgery, the natural lens is usually replaced by an intraocular lens (IOL). Older intraocular lenses absorb much less UV light than ordinary glass or plastic eyeglass lenses. Manufacturers of IOLs now make most of their products UV-absorbent.

If you have had cataract surgery and your IOL is not the newer UV-absorbent type, be sure to wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat for added protection. However, even if you have a new IOL, wearing sunglasses and a hat gives an extra measure of protection.

Photosensitizing Drugs
Photosensitizing drugs - drugs that make your skin more sensitive to light - can make your eyes more sensitive to light as well. You should discuss precautions with your ophthalmologist if you are taking any of the following drugs:

* Psoralens (used in treating psoriasis)
* Tetracycline
* Doxycycline
* Allopurinol
* Phenothiazine

Wear UV-absorbent sunglasses and a hat whenever you go outside for as long as you take these drugs.

If you have recently had photodynamic therapy for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), you also must be careful to avoid sunlight.

Contact Lens Wearers

Contact lenses by themselves may not protect your eyes from UV light. There are contact lenses available with UV protection. If you do not have contact lenses that absorb UV light, you need to protect your eyes with sunglasses.

Situations Where Sunglasses Won’t Work

Sunglasses cannot protect your eyes from certain intense light sources. Arc welding, tanning lights, snowfields or gazing directly at the sun, especially during a solar eclipse, for example, can severely damage your eyes. Looking at any of these light sources without adequate protection can cause a painful corneal condition called photokeratitis or even damage to the retina, causing a permanent loss of central vision. Your ophthalmologist can recommend the appropriate measures to take to protect your eyes in special situations.

For general outdoor activities, proper sunglasses are key to protecting your eyes from sun-related damage. The best sunglasses offer 100 percent UV absorption, are of the best optical quality and are impact resistant.

Source: American Academy of Opthamalogy

MANCHESTER, England, Oct. 23, 2007 — Goldfish have a natural advantage in sensing the proximity of their meals: Individual light-sensitive cells in their retinas are able to detect polarized light, acting much like Polaroid sunglasses.

This type of polarized vision improves visual contrast and can help an animal catch its prey more easily, said Nicholas Roberts of Manchester University’s Photon Science Institute and its School of Physics and Astronomy. His research is the first direct experimental evidence of a polarization detection mechanism in any normal vertebrate eye. The research team believes that discovering how single cells work as polarization detectors may lead to new developments in man-made microscopic detection or information display technologies.

“Vision is the primary sense of many animals, and the way they see their world is of fundamental importance to understanding aspects of their behavior,” Roberts said. “Numerous animals have amazing visual abilities, which allow them to see the world in very different ways.”

One such ability is polarization vision. “Just as fishermen wear Polaroid sunglasses to help improve contrast, many different animals - including fish - have evolved to do the very same thing without the need of sunglasses. It is a surprisingly common ability throughout the animal kingdom,” he said.

For the study, Roberts used “laser tweezers” to manipulate the cells in three dimensions. This meant that for the first time, the absorption of single photoreceptors could be studied in the same orientation in which they are in the retina. He stressed that the team has so far only investigated one of the three-color channels known to play a role in polarization vision.

“This is just the first step in understanding the full mechanism that allows vertebrates to see polarized light, but we see these initial results as extremely encouraging,” he said. “We are now examining in much greater detail the underlying biochemical properties that make only some photoreceptor cells polarization detectors.”

The real challenge, he said, is building an integrated picture of vertebrate vision. “We are aiming to discover how both the biochemical and biophysical aspects of visual cell function link to the way polarization information is first analyzed, processed and then relayed to the brain.”

The paper, “A Mechanism of Polarized Light Sensitivity in Cone Photoreceptors of the Goldfish Carassius auratus,” is in the November 2007 Biophysics Journal (volume 93).
For more information, visit: www.eps.manchester.ac.uk

Source: Fish Don’t Need Sunglasses