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Sunglasses are a fashion accessory that can also serve as protective gear. The right pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, which have been linked to the development of cataracts and other eye conditions. If you're in the market for a new pair of sunglasses, there are several factors to consider before making your final choice. Since most people buy sunglasses on an occasional basis, it's important to make sure you invest in a high-quality pair that fits your face shape and eye size so it lasts for many summers. Read on to discover more about what to look for when buying sunglasses.

What to look for when buying sunglasses

- Frame material - How durable is it? - Frame shape - Does it match your face shape? - Lens type - Do the lenses filter the light properly? - UV protection - Do they block harmful UV rays? - Other factors to consider - Headphone compatibility, durability and cleaning

Frame material

There are five common materials used to make frames. Each has its own pros and cons, so it's important to understand the pros and cons of each to ensure you choose the best frame for your needs. - Acetate or also known as bone - Acetate is a semi-synthetic material made of cellulose fibers, which is usually found in higher quality sunglasses. It is light and flexible, but not as durable as other frame materials. - Metal - Metal frames are durable, but they are also heavy and have a premium look. - Nylon - Nylon is a synthetic fiber that is naturally resistant to stretching and creasing, making it ideal for sports sunglasses. - Polycarbonate - Polycarbonate is a synthetic material that is extremely impact resistant and lightweight. - Wood - Wood frames may be aesthetically appealing, but they don't offer you the same level of protection.

Frame shape

Frames come in a variety of different shapes, so it's important to choose the one that best complements your facial structure. - Square frames have increased in popularity in recent years and usually suit people with a square face shape very well. - Round frames are ideal for people with a round face shape. - Ovals are a good shape for those with oval face shapes, but round frames can also work. - Rectangular shapes are ideal for people with a rectangular face shape.

Lens type

Most sunglass lenses are made from polycarbonate, but they can also be made from other materials. The type of lens you should choose depends on a number of factors, including how often you plan to wear them and the outdoor conditions you're typically exposed to. Some lenses block UV rays better than others, so it's important to choose a pair of sunglasses that block harmful UV rays. Other types of lenses you may want to consider include mirror, transition, photochromic, and polarized lenses. - Mirror lenses reflect light and are ideal for outdoor conditions. They are best for sports sunglasses because they are more impact resistant than regular lenses. - Transition lenses are clear when you are in bright light, but darken when you are in shadow. It's a great all-purpose lens choice. - Photochromic lenses darken when exposed to UV light, but do not provide the same level of protection as other lenses.

UV protection

It is important to choose a pair of sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation, as UV rays can be harmful to your eyes. You can determine the level of protection offered by a pair of sunglasses by checking the UV protection label on the product packaging. You can also use an online UV protection guide to find which sunglasses provide the level of protection you need. - UV-A light is responsible for aging your skin. It also contributes to the development of cataracts and other eye diseases. Choose a pair of sunglasses that block UV-A light to protect your eyes from aging and disease. - UV-B light can cause sunburn, so it is best to protect your eyes from UV-B light. However, UV-B light is not as harmful to the eyes as UV-A light, so you do not need the same level of UV protection.

Other factors to consider

- Headphone Compatibility - If you often wear headphones, make sure the frame design does not block the headphone ports. Some frame designs have notches that allow you to plug in your headphones without removing the sunglasses. - Durability - How long do you expect these sunglasses to last? It is important to choose a pair of sunglasses with a durable frame and thick lenses to last many summers. - Cleaning - You should clean your sunglasses regularly to remove dust, dirt and harmful UV rays. Some frames are easier to clean than others.

Conclusion

Wearing the right pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. It's important to choose a pair that fits your face shape and offers the level of UV protection necessary to protect your eyes. When shopping for sunglasses, consider these factors to ensure you invest in a pair that will last for many summers.