Eye and Vision Care

Sunglasses 10/07/2010

Question:

Which are better, polarized sunglasses or UVA sunglasses?

Answer:

You may find that polarized lenses have complete UVA absorption. Polycarbonate is a commonly used plastic and absorbs virtually all UV radiation, but I do not know the extent to which it is used in sunglasses, polarized or otherwise. 

On a personal note, I prefer polarized lenses because they eliminate many of the annoying reflections, e.g., the reflection of the dashboard in the car windshield. I recommend them to patients and they are usually delighted.  

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Response by:

Mark Bullimore, MCOptom, PhD Formerly: Professor College of Optometry The Ohio State University