Best polarized sunglasses FAQs
How do polarized sunglasses work?
Polarized sunglasses work by filtering out the light oscillating in a certain direction. Polarized light, as described by Dr. Park, is made up of waves oscillating in one plane or direction. When light hits a flat surface such as a body of water or the hood of a car, it gets polarized horizontally and can cause glare. Polarized lenses have a chemical coating that will block out the light coming directly, horizontally, into your eyes and only allow vertical light in, according to Dr. Herz.
Is there a difference between UVA/UVB light protection and polarized lenses?
Yes, there's a big difference. Dr. Park describes UV radiation as a wavelength of light in the non-visible spectrum that can cause damage to tissues of the body, including the eye. UV lenses protect the surface of your eyes from harmful rays. "You can't put sunscreen on the surface of your eyes or your eyelids," she said. "Those areas can still get skin cancer."
Do polarized lenses provide UV protection?
No, they don't. Polarized lenses differ from lenses with UV protection, Dr. Herz explained. Polarization has more to do with glare and will help reduce your eye strain while you're working outdoors or playing sports. It's not medically necessary, while UV protection is. For more information on protecting your eyes, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology website.
Are there different methods of making polarized lenses?
Yes. "Inexpensive polarized sunglasses have a thin film applied on one side of the lens," Dr. Park said. "Higher quality lenses have film laminated between two layers of lens material, preventing it from being scratched or rubbed off."
What are the downsides of polarized lenses?
According to Dr. Park, polarized lenses reduce visibility at night, so should not be worn while driving when it's dark out. They also interfere with the ability to see an LCD display because these screens use polarized light to create a sharp image. Dr. Herz points out that some vehicles have dashboards that use LCD displays, and in those cases, polarized lenses would not be the best choice.