Prescription Polarized Sunglasses - What Are The Benefits?

Prescription polarized sunglasses are quickly becoming a popular form of sunglasses throughout the country. These sunglasses, which help to reduce glare, are great for helping the eye muscles relax. As a result, prescription polarized sunglasses can help reduce headaches and tired eyes while also helping to improve poor vision.

Understanding Glare

Glare is created when light rays hit a surface and are reflected. These reflected light rays then travel horizontally, vertically, and every other direction they can manage. In fact, the light created by glare is seven to ten times brighter than the light caused by ambient light. As a result, light caused by glare causes your eyes to work harder. Prescription polarized sunglasses are capable of absorbing these reflected light rays from every direction except for those traveling on a vertical plane.

Forms of Prescription Polarized Sunglasses

Nearly any type of glasses can be polarized to help reduce glare. There are, however, different types of polarization available. Understanding each type of polarization and its benefits is helpful in determining the type that is right for you.

Polarized A is the lightest shade of polarization available. This type of polarization generally is found in shades of brown or gray. Other colors are very limited with polarization A, but it is helpful in reducing the glare found from computer screens. Polarization B is the medium shade of polarization. It is often found with mirrored prescription sunglasses. Polarization C is the darkest shade of polarization available and is the most popular form, as well. This type of polarization is the best overall choice for prescription polarized sunglasses meant for outdoor use.

Colors of Prescription Polarized Sunglasses

In addition to the level of polarization used on prescription polarized sunglasses, there are also different colors that can be used with them. These colors are not, however, simply intended to be fashionable. In fact, different colors serve different purposes and have their own unique benefits.

Prescription polarized sunglasses made with green mirror over an amber polarization, for example, are best for improving visual acuity while snow skiing. They are also great for use in low light situations, such as what is encountered in haze and in fog. A blue mirror over gray polarization, on the other hand, is best for use during water sports, while driving, and while flying. Ruby mirror over Vermillion lens, however, is great for the mogul skier and helps improve resolution for seeing bumps and for use in snow conditions.

In addition, polarized lenses may also react adversely with liquid crystal displays (LCDs) found on the dashboards of some cars or in other places such as the digital screens on automatic teller (bank) machines. The problem with LCDs is that when viewed through polarized lenses from a certain angle, they can be invisible.

Additional Benefits of Prescription Polarized Sunglasses

Prescription polarized sunglasses are undoubtedly beneficial to athletes looking to reduce glare. For those engaging in water activities, such as boaters and fishermen, prescription polarized sunglasses are helpful in reducing glare and, therefore, improving vision and reducing eyestrain. Other sports enthusiasts, such as golfers, skiers, joggers, and bikers, also benefit from the reduction in glare from clouds and pavement.

Drivers also appreciate the use of prescription polarized sunglasses. They help prevent glare from the pavement and from the chrome of other vehicles. One concern about driving with prescription polarized sunglasses, however, is that they can make the LCD display used on the dashboards of some cars seemingly disappear completely. This is something the wearer of prescription polarized sunglasses must keep in mind if driving a vehicle utilizing this technology.

Prescription polarized sunglasses have even been found beneficial to those recovering from cataract surgery or others whose eyes are sensitive to light.

Other Lens Advancements

In addition to prescription polarized sunglasses, many people are taking advantage of polycarbonate lenses. These lenses are resistant to impact and scratching. Therefore, they are also beneficial to those who are actively involved with sports. They are also a good choice for children's prescription sunglasses or for those who work in an environment where their glasses could easily become scratched. For others, Trivex lenses are a good choice. These lenses are made from a lighter material, but are otherwise similar to the polycarbonate lenses.