Sunglasses

Sunglasses are visual aids that have darkened lenses in order to shield the wearer's eyes from bright light. Sunglasses are useful for outdoor activities, not only to aid in vision but to protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Sunglasses also serve to hide identity and have been a popular fashion statement since the 1940s.

• Aviators: Created by Ray Ban in 1936 for United States Military aviators. The glasses featured large, mirrored lenses and are still popular with pilots and law enforcement officers. They are also worn as a fashion statement by ordinary civilians.

• Novelty: Novelty and oversized sunglasses are used for humor and/or shock value. They are often too big for a normal face and come in very bright colors.

• Designer Sunglasses: These types of glasses are created by clothing designers such as Giorgio Armani and Gucci. They generally follow the latest trends and are intended for the fashion-conscious consumer. Although most are designed for form over function, these tend to be quality sunglasses (which is often reflected in the price).http://www.popularglasses.com/Product_Category/Sunglasses/Gucci/?gclid=CM31j6Gyp6ECFQpJagodjy0fDw

• Onassis Glasses: Popularized by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, these big sunglasses became popular again in 2003.

• John Lennon Glasses: These sunglasses are small and round, typically with wire rims. Lenses come in green or other various brightly-colored hues, as well as traditional black or brown.

Aside from providing comfort by shielding the eyes from bright light, sunglasses can also protect wearers from exposing their peepers to the sun's dangerous ultraviolet (UV) rays. When shopping for a pair, it is important to look for a high percentage number for UV protection. Lenses made from CR-39R plastic will block out roughly 88 percent of UV rays, while those crafted from polycarbonate will block 100 percent. Polarized sunglasses will also block 100 percent.http://www.allaboutvision.com/askdoc/sunglasses.htm

UV rays are why it is important to purchase a quality pair of sunglasses over a cheap pair. While inexpensive shades may save you some cash, they can cause long term damage to your vision. This is because wearing sunglasses causes the pupils to dilate, allowing in extra light (pupils naturally dilate in darkened conditions). Poor quality sunglasses do not provide adequate UV protection, and therefore leave the pupils exposed to even more harmful rays than if the wearer had on no eye "protection" at all.http://www.allaboutvision.com/askdoc/sunglasses.htm