Yet whether considering shapes or colors, Brenda Lewis of Westwood Optometric acknowledges another trend that might reflect society at large. In a region where beaches abound, looks are not all that matter to some consumers. When it comes to protection against UV rays, Lewis highlighted the high performance of polarized lenses, which work as a chemical layer on the lens that rearranges light and allows vision to cut through glare. Polarized lenses come in a wide array of colors which doesn't affect the quality of the product, Lewis said. Mirror coating is also great for water and when driving.
Sunglasses can also prevent exposure to potentially damaging rays.
According to ophthalmologist Ralph Levinson, the potential dangers of light exposure on the eyes fall into two categories . First, exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or any bright light can scar the retina, a delicate membrane lining the inner eyeball. While sunglasses may play a protective role, Levinson said that belief lacked empirical research. It isn't proven that wearing sunglasses will help. For instance, most sunglasses protect against UVA and UVB rays, but some also offer protection against UVC rays.