What to look for
- UV400 or 100% UV protection: this matters more than how dark the lens is.
- Polarised lenses cut glare from roads, water and car bonnets: great for driving and the beach.
- Wrap-around or larger frames block light from the sides.
- A dark lens without UV protection is worse than none: the pupil opens wider and lets more UV in.
Who needs them
- Everyone outdoors in the daytime, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.
- Children: their eyes let in more UV than adult eyes.
- Two-wheeler riders: wind, dust and sun together.
- People after cataract surgery, as advised by their doctor.
Wear glasses? Two easy options
Get power sunglasses with your prescription, or photochromic lenses that darken in the sun and clear indoors, so one pair does both.
Do
- Choose UV400 / 100% UV
- Polarised for driving
- Sunglasses for kids too
- Photochromic if you wear glasses
Don't
- Buy dark lenses without UV protection
- Look directly at the sun
- Leave sunglasses on the dashboard
- Skip them on cloudy days
Questions
Is a darker lens better?
No. Darkness only reduces brightness. UV protection is separate, so always check for UV400 or 100% UV.
What is the difference between polarised and normal tinted lenses?
Both can block UV. Polarised lenses also cut the reflected glare from roads, water and glass, so vision is clearer and less tiring outdoors.
General information from the optometrists at LenzKare Optical & Eye Clinic, Arumbakkam, Chennai. It does not replace an eye examination. For sudden changes in vision, see an eye doctor the same day.