Image provided by Essilor Crizal Prevencia.

You’re probably familiar with Ultraviolet (UV) Light and its harmful effects on eyes. But, did you know Blue-Violet Light can be just as detrimental to your eye health? Like UV rays, Blue-Violet Light comes from the sun and can cause harm even on cloudy days. But, Blue light also comes from artificial sources, such as computers, smartphones, tablets and fluorescent lights. Long-term exposure to Blue light can lead to eye diseases, such as Age-related Macular Degeneration, which is the leading source of visual impairment in our part of the world.

Think of how often you are in front of a computer screen or looking at your phone. Now imagine spending that much time in the sun without sunglasses or UV protection. You probably wouldn’t let that happen given all that we know about UV light these days. But, Blue-Violet Light is increasingly becoming even more detrimental because of all of the time we spend on “screen time” indoors.

Luckily, there is a way to protect your eyes from these harmful rays. And, we now offer this protection!

Essilor’s Crizal® Prevencia clear lenses use an exclusive technology to selectively filter light and virtually eliminate UV rays and harmful Blue-Violet Light. We use the phrase “selectively filter” because these lenses allow essential light to pass through, which helps regulate your sleep cycles, provide energy, and more.

We’ve carried the Crizal line of lenses for a while. They are excellent lenses for a variety of reasons, such as being smudge-proof, anti-reflective, scratch resistant and defenders against dust and water. Now, with Crizal Prevencia blocking Blue-Violet Light, the brand is definitely at the top of our list for patients.

The Crizal lenses are available for adults and children. No appointment is necessary for our Optical Shop. Stop by any day to learn more.

Do you remember back in May when the temperatures were warm, we were planning trips to the beach, and I talked about the importance of protecting your eyes with quality sunglasses? While the lazy days of summer may be distant memories, that certainly doesn’t mean it’s time to stop thinking about protecting your eyes.

Believe it or not, sunglasses are just as important in the winter! While we may not think the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays feel as strong in the winter, they are often even more intense this time of year. “Winter glare,” the intense reflection from snow and ice, can interfere with your vision.  Sunglasses provide protection for your eyes from the ever-changing light conditions that winter weather can bring, while also serving as a wind block, protecting your eyes from drying, and keeping them comfortable. Regardless of the temperature, exposing your eyes to UV rays without the proper protection can lead to serious damage. So, don’t pack those sunglasses away with your shorts and t-shirts just yet!

Remember, there is a large difference in the quality of sunglasses on the market. We highly suggest purchasing even non-prescription sunglasses (perfect for contact wearers!) from a reputable optical shop to ensure quality. Here are a few suggestions for your future sunglass purchases:

• Look for lenses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B radiation
• Buy lenses that screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light;
• Gray lenses are preferable, as they do not modify color, but brown and green are good choices, too.

Good UV radiation protection doesn’t have to be outrageously expensive. We carry a wide variety of sunglasses that offer 99-100 percent UV protection across the price spectrum from makers such as Vera Bradley, Tommy Bahama, and Gucci.

If you would like to know the amount of UV blocked by your current sunglasses, we have a piece of equipment that will measure it. Just stop by any time during business hours. I will measure your glasses, and I’d love to show you what we have to offer.

This week’s hot weather reminds us that summer will be here before we know it.  For most of us this means more time outdoors and protecting ourselves from the sun’s UV (ultra-violet) rays will be on all our minds. Unfortunately, most people think only about the protection of their skin and completely disregard the safety of their eyes. In fact, a survey conducted by the American Optometric Association (AOA) found that only one-third of Americans said UV protection is the most important factor they consider when purchasing sunglasses.

Did you know that over-exposure to UV can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration, or, in some cases, skin cancer around the eyelids?  If this is news to you, you’re not alone. The same AOA survey found that only 35% of adults are aware of the health risks to eyes associated with spending too much time in the sun without the proper protection.

So what can you do to protect your eyes this summer?  Below are a few tips from the AOA to help prevent eye and vision damage from UV radiation exposure:

1) Wear protective eyewear anytime the eyes are exposed to UV rays, even on cloudy days.

2) Look for quality glasses or contact lenses that offer protection, blocking 99-100% UV-A & B radiation. Cheap sunglasses without 100% UV actually do more damage to your eyes than going without sun wear altogether.

3) Purchase grey-colored eyeglass lenses. These lenses reduce light intensity without altering the color of your world, providing the most natural color vision. Brown or amber lenses provide the same eye protection, but give more contrast for low-light situations or for persons with visual impairments.

4) Don’t forget protection for children of all ages, who typically spend more time outside than adults and are a greater risk for damage.

Stop by our Optical Shop any time during business hours Monday through Friday to check out our large selection of exceptional quality sunglasses from premium brands like Ray Ban, Maui Jim, and more.  I’d love to help you find the perfect pair that protects your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, as well as makes you look and feel great!