What Are Polarised Lenses?

Polarised sunglasses are fitted with a special filter (a “polariser”) that cuts out glare by blocking certain orientations of light. When sunlight reflects off flat surfaces, like water, wet roads, glass, or snow, much of that light becomes “polarised,” causing intense glare. Polarised lenses filter out horizontally reflected light, significantly reducing glare and letting only vertically reflected light through.

In contrast, non-polarised sunglasses simply use tint to reduce the overall brightness of light entering your eyes, often combined with UV-blocking coatings. They do not selectively block glare.

Hence, the key difference isn’t necessarily UV protection, which should exist regardless of polarisation, but whether the lenses help manage reflected light and glare. For a broader look at how polarised lenses work and the different types available, see our full guide on everything you need to know about polarised sunglasses.

Polarised vs Non-Polarised: What’s The Difference?

Why Polarised Sunglasses Are Often Better

1. Glare & Reflection Reduction

Because the polarised filter blocks horizontally reflected light, polarised sunglasses dramatically reduce glare from water, wet surfaces, glass, and snow. This makes them ideal for driving, walking in cityscape with reflective pavements, or spending time outdoors near water or in bright sunlight.

Reducing glare means less squinting and eye strain, which, over a long walk, drive or outdoor activity, improves comfort and reduces fatigue.

2. Better Visual Clarity, Colour & Contrast Outdoors

By cutting out scattered, reflected light, polarised lenses can improve contrast, colour perception, and sharpness of vision. This helps when driving (seeing the road clearly), boating or fishing (seeing beneath the water surface), or simply enjoying a sunny day outdoors.

3. Maintains UV Protection

Polarisation itself doesn’t guarantee UV protection, but many quality polarised sunglasses also carry UV400 or CE ratings, which block 99–100% of UVA/UVB rays. That means you get glare reduction and eye-health protection, if you choose wisely.

4. Excellent for Specific Activities & Environments

If you spend time driving, cycling, boating, walking near water or snow, or live somewhere with frequent glare from buildings, glass or wet roads, polarised sunglasses are a strong choice.

In short: where glare is a regular problem, outdoors, water, reflective surfaces, bright sunlight, polarised lenses deliver a noticeably better visual experience.

Why You Should Still Consider Non-Polarised Sunglasses

Despite their benefits, polarised sunglasses aren’t perfect — and there are good reasons to own a non-polarised pair too.

Screen Visibility

Polarised lenses can sometimes make LCD screens, like phone screens, car dashboards, cash points or digital panels, look dim, distorted or even unreadable, because the polarising filter affects the way certain light waves pass through.
If your daily life involves frequent screen use outdoors (GPS, phone, tablets), non-polarised lenses may be more convenient.

Performance in Low Light or Unpredictable Weather

Because polarised lenses often reduce overall light, they may be less suitable in dusk, dawn, cloudy or indoor-outdoor transition situations (e.g. stepping in and out of shade). Non-polarised sunglasses tend to have more consistent visibility across changing light conditions.

Cost & Affordability

Polarised sunglasses tend to be more expensive, typically 20–30% more than equivalent non-polarised versions.
If you’re budget-conscious, or want multiple pairs for different situations, non-polarised sunglasses remain a useful, cheaper option.

Versatility & Everyday Use

For everyday urban use, walking around town, commuting, casual use, non-polarised sunglasses are often more practical. They avoid the screen-visibility issues and work reasonably well in variable light.

In many cases, owning both polarised and non-polarised sunglasses is the smartest choice: use polarised outdoors for driving, holidays, water or snow; and keep non-polarised for daily wear, indoor-outdoor transitions, and screen-heavy situations.

Polarised sunglasses offer distinct advantages when glare, bright reflections, and outdoor conditions are central to your day, improving clarity, comfort, and reducing eye strain. But non-polarised sunglasses remain valuable: affordable, versatile, and often more convenient for everyday use, screen viewing, or variable light conditions.
Rather than asking “which is better overall,” the question is: “Which is better for your lifestyle and the situations you face?”

At D.I. Blow Opticians, we encourage clients to think about how, when, and where they spend their time, and choose sunglasses accordingly. Many find that owning both types gives them the best of both worlds: clarity and comfort outdoors, and practicality and convenience for everyday life.

Already know you want to go the polarised route? See how they compare in cost and style to prescription sunglasses, read our tips on caring for your sunglasses to keep them scratch-free, find out which frame shapes suit your face before you buy, or explore our guide to lens coatings for even more UV and anti-glare protection. For the full picture on choosing the right lenses, see our Sunglasses Lens Guide.

If you’re unsure which to choose, feel free to book an appointment, we’ll be happy to guide you through the options and find the perfect pair for your eyes and lifestyle.

The post Polarised vs Non-Polarised Sunglasses: Which Are Better for Your Eyes? appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Do Blue Light Glasses Actually Work?

Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum, high-energy and short-wavelength, emitted by digital screens, LEDs, and in much larger amounts, by the sun itself. Blue light blocking coatings filter out a portion of this light before it reaches your eyes.

Whether blue light glasses meaningfully protect your eyes is genuinely debated among eye care professionals. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has stated there’s currently limited clinical evidence that blue light from screens actually causes damage, and that eye strain from screen use is more likely caused by how we use screens (reduced blinking, poor posture, extended close focus) than by blue light itself.

That said, many people report the coating helps with visual comfort during long screen sessions, and it’s a low-risk, inexpensive addition if you find it helps you personally. You can read more detail in our guide on blue light and eye health here.

Anti-Reflection (Anti-Glare) Coating

Anti-reflection coatings, are also known as AR coatings, are designed to reduce glare, increase clarity, and improve visual comfort. They are particularly useful for night driving, long hours at a screen, and photography (since AR-coated lenses don’t reflect light back into photos the way uncoated lenses can).

AR coatings work via light interference: specific materials with certain refractive indices are layered together to cancel out reflected light at particular wavelengths. This increases light transmission through the lens and reduced the unwanted reflection that causes glare.

If you regularly drive at night, work long hours on screens, or simply notice glare bothering you, book an eye test with our team and ask about adding AR coating to your next pair.

UV Protection Coating

UV protection is essential for anyone spending significant time outdoors. Sun exposure to unprotected eyes can significantly increase the risk of eye conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts. The College of Optometrists recommends UV-protective eyewear whenever you’re in strong sunlight.

UV protection coatings work by either absorbing or blocking harmful UV rays before they reach the eyes. Depending on the glasses, these coatings are induced in the lens or added as a layer.

To provide 100% UV protection, glass and plastic lenses must have UV coating applied. This is not necessary for polycarbonate, NXT, and most high-index plastic lens materials, as they block 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC without the need for added coatings.

UV Wavelengths Explained

UVC: Wavelengths below 280nm are filtered out by the ozone layer surrounding the Earth. The amount of absorption varies and is less near the equator and at high altitudes due to the reduced atmospheric thickness.

UVB: Wavelengths between 280nm and 315. These are responsible for sunburn and snow blindness. The amount of ultraviolet affecting a person is substantially increased by reflection from surfaces such as snow, sand, and water.

UVA: Possibly the most dangerous area, between 315nm and 380nm, causing chronic eye damage, especially with low-dose exposure over a long period of time.

If you’re choosing sunglasses specifically, our polarised vs non-polarised guide covers how polarisation works alongside UV protection in more depth.

Scratch-Resistant Coating (SRC)

All lightweight lens materials, plastic, polycarbonate, and high-index plastics, have a relatively soft surface and require an SRC applied to both sides of the lens. Glass lenses don’t require an SRC due to their natural hardness. Glass is, in fact, more scratch-resistant than most lightweight lenses with SRC applied.

Anti-Fog Coating (AF)

The anti-fog coating permanently bonded to the inside of the lens absorbs moisture before fog forms. It can fade over time with repeated cleaning of the inside of the lens. As an alternative, there are now many effective sprays and wipes that can be used to reduce lens fogging.

Hydrophobic Coating

A hydrophobic coating reduces surface tension, facilitating the runoff of water droplets from the lens surface. It reduces visual distortion arising when wearing glasses or sunglasses around water or in the rain. It also resists stains and repels grease and fingerprints, making cleaning your lenses quicker and easier.

Photochromic Treatment

Photochromic treatment, also known as transition lenses, is designed to adjust to the amount of light around you. These lenses darken when you step outside into bright sunlight and quickly turn clear again when you move indoors. Photochromic treatment can be added to any lens type, and it’s an excellent option for those who frequently move between indoor and outdoor environments. Our prescription sunglasses guide compares photochromic lenses against dedicated prescription sunglasses in full detail, including cost and which suits different lifestyles.

Lens coatings have real, practical advantages for improving vision, comfort, and lens longevity. But not every coating suits every person or lifestyle, and (as with blue light blocking) not every claimed benefit is equally well-supported by evidence. Consider your day-to-day activities when deciding which combination is right for you, and contact our team if you’d like personalised advice. If you’re specifically choosing sunglasses, our Sunglasses Lens Guide pulls all of this together in one place.

FAQs

Do Blue Light Glasses Actually Work?

The evidence is limited. Major eye health bodies, including the American Academy of Ophthalmology, haven’t found strong evidence that blue light from screens causes lasting eye damage, and much everyday eye strain is more likely caused by how we use screens than by blue light itself. Some people still find the coating improves visual comfort during long screen sessions.

Do I Need UV Protection on My Glasses If I Don’t Wear Sunglasses?

Yes, if your everyday lenses are glass or standard plastic. Materials like polycarbonate and high-index plastic block UV automatically, but other lens materials need a UV coating added to reach full protection.

Can I Combine Multiple Lens Coatings?

Yes, most coatings (anti-reflection, UV protection, scratch-resistant, anti-fog, hydrophobic) can be combined on the same lens. Photochromic and blue light coatings can usually be added too, depending on your prescription and lens material.

The post Blue Light & Anti-Glare Glasses: Lens Coatings Explained appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

If you take good care of your sunglasses they can last for 10 years or more. So what are our top tips for getting the most out of your favourite shades?

1. Protect Your Sunglasses From Scratches

Whilst glass lenses are more resistant to scratching than polycarbonate lenses, whatever your lens types it’s important to store your sunglasses in a case. If you just drop them in your bag they’re likely to get scratched by your keys and ruined.

Get yourself either a hardshell case or at minimum a microfibre pouch.

2. Clean Your Sunglasses Properly

Your sunglasses will be prone to smudges and grime, they will pick up oils from your skin and fingers, dirt from outside, makeup residue, and salt or chlorine from the ocean or pool.

The best way to clean your sunglasses is to start with clean, dry hands. Rinse your glasses under warm water and soap up your fingers with a few drops of mild dishwashing soap without harsh detergents or moisturisers. Rub soapy water on the frames and then dry them with a microfibre cloth for best results.

Do not use rubbing alcohol, glass cleaners, vinegar, or any other household cleaners on your glasses.

3. Don’t Leave Your Sunglasses In The Car

Don’t place your sunglasses on the dashboard where heat from the sun is particularly intense.

Extreme heat can be generated by the windshield of your car and that heat can cause the lens of your sunglasses to delaminate. The mirroring and anti-reflective coatinga on the lenses may degrade.

4. Consider How Your Care For Polarised or Mirrored Lenses

Whilst care for polarised sunglasses and mirrored sunglasses is the same as any pair of glasses, it should be noted that some high-quality lenses place the mirror inside the glass, while less-expensive lenses might spray on the mirroring.

Spray on coatings are more vulnerable to scratching and chemicals.

5. Stop Wearing Your Sunglasses On Top Of Your Head

Wearing your sunglasses on top of your head might seem convenient when not in use, but doing this repeatedly can damage to the nose pads, cause the screws to loosen, and stretch the arms.

If you follow these tips and advice, you will ensure that your favourite sunglasses stand the test of time. If you’re in the market for a new pair, take a look at our guide to polarised vs non-polarised lenses or our guide to prescription sunglasses, or browse our full Sunglasses Lens Guide to compare all the lens options available, then visit us in store at D.I. Blow Opticians to see our full range.

The post Caring For Your Sunglasses appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

The sun’s UV rays don’t only do damage to your skin, these harmful rays can also affect your eyes and can have long-term lasting effects.

What is UV Light?

UV light is a form of electromagnetic radiation.

There are 3 types of UV light based on wavelength range. UVA wavelength is 315 to 400 nanometers. UVB is 280 to 315 nanometers, and UVC is 100 to 280 nanometers.

Why Do I Need To Protect My Eyes From UV Light?

UV light more easily penetrates eye tissue than visible light, potentially increasing the risk of eye problems.

Among the 3 types of UV light, UVA emits the least energy but can cause the ageing of the skin.

UVB emits slightly more energy than UVA. UVB damages DNA directly and is responsible for sun burns and most UV-related cancers.

UVC emits even more energy than UVA and UVB but it is mostly blocked by the Earth’s ozone layer. Aside from the sun, UVC also comes from welding torches and UV sanitising bulbs. It more easily penetrates the skin, potentially damaging skin cell DNA and increasing skin cancer risk.

What Eye Problems Are Linked To Excessive UV Exposure?

Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to several eye problems including:

• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens that can impair vision.
• Macular Degeneration: Damage to the retina, affecting central vision.
• Photokeratitis: A painful, temporary condition similar to sunburn affecting the cornea.
• Pinguecula: A protein and fat deposit in the white part of the eye. It can cause irritation and, in rare case, affect how tears cover the eye.
• Pterygium: A growth that extends from the sclera to the clear tissue called the cornea, which covers the iris and pupil.
• Cancer: Including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both linked to UV exposure.

Solar Retinopathy

Solar retinopathy is damage to your retina from looking directly at the sun or other bright lights like laser pointers. Solar retinopathy can cause a variety of symptoms, including permanent low vision.

You will not be able to tell if you have solar retinopathy by looking at your eyes in a mirror. However, an ophthalmologist can see signs of solar retinopathy by examining your eyes using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). This imaging test allows your eye doctor to see damage or irregularities on your retina – they might see a small, yellow, round, damaged area.

What Are The Symptoms of Solar Retinopathy?

Mild symptoms of solar retinopathy include:

• Epiphora (watery eyes)
• Headaches
• Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

More serious symptoms of solar retinopathy include:

• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Metamorphopsia (straight lines appear rounded)
• Micropsia (objects appear smaller than they are)
• Scotoma (A blind spot in your line of sight)

In rare cases, solar retinopathy can cause blindness.

Management & Treatment

In most cases, solar retinopathy heals. In mild cases of solar retinopathy, symptoms and vision problems resolve on their own. In more severe cases, vision damage might be irreversible.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of solar retinopathy, schedule an eye exam with your optometrist right away. They will be able to help you manage symptoms like blurred vision, watery eyes, and blind spots.

Protecting Your Eyes From UV Rays

Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection:

Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for labels indicating UV400 or 100% UV protection. Wraparound styles provide added protection by preventing UV rays from entering from the sides. Find out more about UV400 protection here.

Opt for Polarised Lenses:

Polarised sunglasses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water and roads, enhancing visual comfort and clarity. Find out everything you need to know about polarised sunglasses here.

Use Hats for Extra Shade:

Wear a wide-brimmed hat to provide additional shade and reduce UV exposure to your eyes and face.

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure During Peak Hours:

In peak, sunny hours, where possible, stay indoors or seek shade during these hours. Clouds do not block UV light.

Don’t Forget Protective Eyewear for Kids:

Children’s eyes are more susceptible to UV damage. Ensure they wear UV-protective sunglasses and hats when outdoors.

Keep Your Eyes Hydrated:

The summer heat can lead to dry eyes. Use lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

Avoid Tanning Beds:

Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be harmful to your eyes. Opt for sunless tanning products instead.

The Sun and Your Health

It’s not all doom and gloom, exposure to sunlight can have healthy effects. We need a little natural light every day to help us sleep well. The light-sensitive cells in our eyes play a role in our bodies’ natural wake-sleep cycles. This is especially important as we age and become more apt to get insomnia.

Spending time outside in the daylight can also help prevent shortsightedness in children.

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting any early signs of UV damage.

The post Can The Sun Affect Your Vision Long-Term? appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Getting Maximum UV Protection

More time outdoors means more UV exposure, so look for these features when choosing sunglasses:

• UVA and UVB protection
• A UV400 label, which confirms 100% protection against both UVA and UVB rays
• A CE Mark, showing the sunglasses confirm to British Standards Institution (BSI) and EU safety standards

Darker lenses don’t necessarily block more UV rays. Always check the label rather than judging by tint alone, and remember that UV rays penetrate thin cloud, so sunglasses are worth wearing beyond just bright, sunny days. For the technical detail on how UV coatings work at a lens level, our lens coating guide covers this in full. For a deeper dive into UV400 specifically, see our guide on whether you need UV400 protection, or our seasonal tips on protecting your eyes from UV rays this summer.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

Depending on your needs, look out for the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage on your next pair of sunglasses. The higher the percentage, the more light that passes through the lens to your eyes.

• 0-19% VLT: Best for bright, sunny conditions
• 20-40% VLT: For all purpose use
• 40+% VLT: Good for overcast and low-light conditions
• 80-90% VLT: Used for very dim and night conditions

Oversized or wraparound lenses will protect a larger area of your face, regardless of VLT.

The Different Types of Sunglasses Lenses

When choosing which sunglasses lenses are right for you, ask yourself the following:

• How often will you be wearing your sunglasses?
• Do you want to block blinding, reflective glare?
• Where will you be wearing your sunglasses?
• What activities will you be doing whilst wearing sunglasses?
• Do you want a bespoke tint, gradient, or lens feature?
• What’s your budget?

Gradient Lenses

Traditional frame tints consist of a single block colour, but gradient sunglasses lenses have two tones, with a darker tint at the top of the lens that fades to a lighter tint at the bottom. This makes them ideal for driving and general use, shielded from sunlight above, with a clear view of objects closer to you.

Mirrored Lenses

Mirrored lenses have a thin, reflective film applied to the lenses that reflects light and glare away from your eyes. Because of this, mirrored sunglasses are popular for those participating in outdoor activities such as skiing, water skiing, and running, as they minimise light disturbance and offer a better viewing experience.

Polarised Lenses

The specialised coating on polarised sunglasses lenses blocks glare from reflective surfaces such as water and wet roads. These are great for any lifestyle and can be fitted to any shape, size, tint, gradient, prescription, or brand of sunglasses. Our polarised vs non-polarised guide covers the pros, cons, and who benefits most in full detail. For more on how polarised lenses work day-to-day, our guide to everything you need to know about polarised sunglasses covers this in full.

Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses, also known as transition lenses, adapt automatically to the amount of light available, darkening outdoors and clearing indoors. They’re a popular alternative to a dedicated pair of prescription glasses. Our prescription sunglasses guide compares photochromic lenses against fixed-tint prescription sunglasses in detail, including cost and which suit different lifestyles.

Lens Colours

While certain tints are recommended for particular activities, lens colour is mostly a personal preference and doesn’t affect how well the sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays.

• Grey: The most neutral tint. It affects your colour vision the least. Great for most activities.
• Green: Provides contrast and helps reduce glare and eye strain. Ideal for golf, tennis and everyday use.
• Red or Rose: Block blue light so they improve driving visibility while reducing eye strain. They enhance detail and increase depth of field.
• Blue or Purple: Deliver enhanced colour perception. They complement most skin tones and work well in foggy weather.
• Amber or Brown: Increase contrast and heighten visual acuity. Perfect for most sports since they improve contrast against green grass and blue skies.
• Yellow, Orange, or Gold: Improve the visibility or objects, especially in moderate to low light conditions. Excellent for both indoor and outdoor activities.

Keep Them Clean, Keep Them Safe

Store your sunglasses in a protective hardshell case when not in use to significantly reduce the risk of damage. For a full cleaning routine and more tips on making your sunglasses last, see our guide to caring for your sunglasses.

Before buying new sunglasses, we recommend you book an eye test with your local D.I. Blow Opticians. You might be considering non-prescription sunglasses, but even if you can pass a driving vision screening without glasses, you might see significantly better with prescription sunglasses. Only a comprehensive eye exam will tell you for sure.

FAQs

What Does UV400 Mean on Sunglasses?

UV400 means the lenses block 100% of the UVA and UVB rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometres – effectively all the UV radiation that reaches the Earth’s surface. Always check for this label regardless of how dark the lenses look, since tint and UV protection aren’t the same thing.

What’s the Best Lens Tint for Sunglasses?

It depends on your main use. Grey is the most neutral all-rounder; amber/brown is popular for sports thanks to better contrast; and yellow or orange lenses improve visibility in low light. None of these tint colours affects UV protection, which comes from the coating, not the colour.

What Is VLT and Why Does it Matter?

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) measures how much light passes through your lenses. A lower percentage suits bright, sunny conditions; a higher percentage suits overcast days or low light. Choosing the right VLT for how you’ll actually use the sunglasses matters as much as tint colour.

Do Darker Sunglasses Lenses Give Better UV

No, tint darkness and UV protection are separate things. A pale lens with a UV400 rating protects your eyes fully; a very dark lens without one may not. Always check the label.

The post Sunglasses Lens Guide: UV400, Tints & Colours Explained appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

At D.I. Blow Opticians, we’re here to keep you informed about the hottest trends in eyewear for 2024.

From Innovative Designs To Stylish Silhouettes, Here Are The Top Trends You Need To Know About:

Sustainable Frames

Embrace eco-friendly fashion with frames made from sustainable materials like recycled plastic, bamboo, or wood. These environmentally-conscious options combine style with sustainability for a guilt-free accessory choice.

Oversized Sunglasses

Make a statement with oversized sunglasses that exude glamour and sophistication. Whether you prefer classic aviators or bold cat-eye frames, oversized sunglasses add instant flair to any outfit.

Transparent Frames

Embrace the translucent trend with transparent frames that offer a modern twist on traditional eyewear. Clear acetate frames are versatile and effortlessly chic, perfect for everyday wear.

Vintage-Inspired Styles

Channel retro vibes with vintage-inspired eyewear featuring classic shapes and retro details. From round frames to brow-line glasses, these timeless styles add a touch of nostalgia to your look.

Bold Colours

Make a bold statement with eyewear in vibrant hues and bold patterns. Whether you opt for bright red frames or playful animal prints, bold colours are sure to turn heads and showcase your unique sense of style.

Tech-Enhanced Lenses

Stay ahead of the curve with tech-enhanced lenses that offer advanced features like blue light filtering, anti-glare coatings, and UV protection. These innovative lenses prioritise both style and functionality for a seamless eyewear experience.

Minimalist Designs

Embrace the beauty of simplicity with minimalist eyewear designs featuring clean lines and understated details. These sleek and sophisticated frames are perfect for those who appreciate timeless elegance and effortless style.

Not sure which of these trends would actually suit you? Our guide to choosing glasses for your face shape can help you narrow it down before you buy, and our tips on finding the best glasses shop near you will help you find somewhere to try styles on in person.

Ready to upgrade your eyewear collection with the latest trends for 2024?

Visit your local D.I. Blow Opticians today to explore our selection of stylish frames and find the perfect pair to stylise your look.

The post Top Trends in Eyewear for 2024: What’s Hot Right Now appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

We can experience glare from looking at screens for too long. Driving at night. Or even looking at bright lights.

But those aren’t the only places where glare can manifest. In fact, glare can intensify during the Winter months.

Whilst Winter eye care is essential for optimum eye health, it’s also important that you invest in polarised sunglasses. Polarised sunglasses aren’t like any other lenses on the market as they work to protect your eyes from blinding glare which can cause permanent damage over time.

Interested in learning more? Here’s everything you need to know about polarised sunglasses and how you can utilise them to protect your eyes during the colder months.

What Are Polarised Sunglasses?

In order to understand how polarised sunglasses work, we first need to understand a little bit more about light.

Light reaches your eyes in vibrating waves that moves in all directions. When the vibrations from light waves become aligned in one or more direction, the light becomes polarised and matches the angle of the surface. For example, when you look at the surface of a lake in bright sunshine, you might notice a reflective glare. This is polarised light.

Unlike standard sunglasses, polarised sunglasses are laminated with tiny vertical stripes that only allow vertically angled light to enter the eyes. By wearing polarised sunglasses, glare is eliminated almost immediately as the light waves cannot bypass the vertical filter.

Is There Much Difference Between Polarised Sunglasses And Regular Sunglasses?

You’re probably thinking polarised sunglasses do the same thing as standard sunglasses, but that’s not the case. Standard sunglasses offer basic protection against bright light and UV rays which is why many opticians recommend UV400 sunglasses at the bare minimum. However, these lenses aren’t always able to reduce glare.

Polarised sunglasses block blinding glare and can also enhance visual acuity, colour contrast, visual comfort and blocks 100% of harmful UVA/B light.

If you’re trying to decide which is right for you, our full polarised vs non-polarised sunglasses comparison breaks down exactly when each option makes more sense, including a side-by-side look at cost, driving, screens and low-light performance.

What Are The Different Types?

Polarised sunglasses are available in nearly all lens types, materials, coatings and designs. There are two main types – polarised varifocal sunglasses or polarised high index sunglasses. These can be added to any frame type such as rimless glasses.

Just ask one of our opticians in store who can advise you further.

How Can Polarised Sunglasses Protect My Eyes During The Winter Months?

There are various ways polarised sunglasses can protect your eyes during Winter. They can:

• Reduce glare from light-reflecting surfaces such as water, glass and snow
• Improve contrast, visual comfort and acuity
• Block blinding glare that sunglasses and standard sunglasses would otherwise struggle to block
• Be particularly useful for people with certain eye conditions that make them more sensitive to light such as cataracts or age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Help prevent eye strain and fatigue
• Sharpen the contrast between light and dark surroundings

Can I Wear Polarised Sunglasses All The Time?

There are certain situations where it’s not a good idea to wear polarised sunglasses. For example, it’s difficult to see LCD screens or displays through them. People who work in high-risk or critical work (like pilots or machine operators) should avoid wearing them.

Finding The Right Pair For You

Interested in polarised lenses? The good news is you can add them to nearly all of our sunglasses.

For the complete picture on choosing sunglasses lenses — UV ratings, tints and lens types — see our Sunglasses Lens Guide.

Why not visit us in one of our stores to try on our extensive range of sunglasses? We have styles to suit all fits, styles and personalities so you’ll never be short on choice. Remember, regular eye exams can detect any eye conditions early so it’s important you attend them when necessary. Your optometrist will also be able to discuss potential options for polarised sunglasses with you.

Find your local branch by using our store locator.

The post Everything You Need to Know about Polarised Sunglasses appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Keep Your Eyes Moisturised

We all have a natural tendency to neglect our eyes during the winter months, especially with cold winter winds and central heating playing havoc with our eyes. Winter air is drier than that of other seasons, and indoor heating only adds to the problem — heaters and radiators strip moisture from the air, leaving none for your eyes. It’s important that you keep your eyes hydrated when temperatures start to plummet, as dehydrated eyes can feel dry, gritty, and sore.

Invest in some quality moisturising eye drops to keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation. Using a humidifier indoors will also help regulate air moisture. You can further minimise symptoms by keeping yourself hydrated, reducing the setting on your central heating, and protecting your eyes from cold winds and heaters at face level — particularly in the car.

Wear Your Sunglasses

Sunglasses aren’t just for the summer months.

In fact, they can be worn all year round to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Snowfall, ice and the sun sitting lower in the sky can create reflective surfaces that dramatically increase the amount of bright light your eyes are exposed to.

Unfortunately, some people can develop new light sensitivity during winter due to a condition known as snow blindness (photokeratitis), where UV glare from snow, water or other bright surfaces can cause the cornea to become inflamed. Whilst UV400 sunglasses can protect your eyes with the highest level of protection, you may also want to consider polarised lenses.

Related: Do I need UV400 protection for my eyes?

Eat a Healthy Diet

Maintaining healthy eyes isn’t just about what you put on them — it’s also about what you eat. Focus on eating leafy greens such as kale, and keep yourself well hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. A balanced diet supports your overall eye health, not just during winter but all year round.

Monitor Your Screen Usage

We naturally spend more time indoors during the winter months, but that doesn’t mean your screen usage should increase. As tempting as it can be to spend more time scrolling on your phone, watching endless hours of TV, or gaming, remember to take regular breaks, especially if you work on a computer screen all day. The more time we spend looking at screens for extended periods, the more likely we are to blink less, which can cause dry, irritated eyes and even pain and redness.

Practice the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This will help reduce any discomfort from digital eye strain and prevent your vision from deteriorating.

Wear Your Glasses

If you wear contact lenses, you might notice that they cause irritation during the winter months, which is perfectly normal.

Instead, try switching to spectacles, which will help alleviate any irritation. If you’re a contact lens wearer but don’t own any glasses, book in with us today and we can help.

Stay Safe While Driving

The reflection of light off icy roads can cause difficulty when driving, so ensure your windscreen is clean inside and out. Keep an extra pair of sunglasses in the car to protect you from low winter sun glare. Additionally, avoid pointing your car heater directly towards your eyes, as this can dry them out further.

Practice Good Hygiene

Winter is notoriously cold and flu season, which can affect your eyes through inflammation. Keep on top of hand washing and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes where possible, to limit the number of bacteria and viruses you come into contact with.

Lighting Is Important

As the nights draw closer, lighting is even more important during the winter months, with natural light becoming significantly lower.

Poorly lit conditions can cause unnecessary eye strain, redness and headaches — all of which can be prevented with the correct lighting.

When choosing lighting in your home for the winter months, consider the following:

• Opt for warm light bulbs to create a more natural feel in your home.
• Ensure you have multiple light sources in a room without relying on a bright overhead light.
• Shade any bulbs so that they do not shine directly into your eyes.

Still Concerned About Your Eye Health?

If you have any concerns about your eyes or you’re due a check-up, book an eye test at your local D.I Blow Opticians branch with us today. Our team are there to help.

The post Winter Eye Care Tips for Healthy Eyes appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.

Below, we’ve put together a quick and easy guide on UV sunglasses protection, why it’s important and how to ensure you’re choosing the right pair for you.

What Is UV400 Protection?

You’re probably wondering what UV protection is best for sunglasses. The answer? UV400. UV400 is the most effective blocker of harmful ultraviolet light as it can filter out up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays. This makes them the best choice of sunglasses to ensure that your eyes are fully protected from sun damage.

UV Damage To Eyes: What Are The Risks?

UV damage is one of the biggest risks when it comes to maintaining optimal eye health. Generally, sunlight contains many different types of light rays including invisible and high-energy rays, also known as ultraviolet (UV). Frequent exposure to UV rays can have a detrimental impact on your vision, in particular UVA and UVB rays.

UV damage to eyes is one of the biggest concerns amongst optometrists as it can lead to both long and short-term eye health conditions. Regular visits to your opticians can help detect any onset conditions sooner rather than later, as well as help prevent any further damage.

UV damage to eyes can cause the following:

• Photokeratitis – This is a type of sunburn to the outer layer of the cornea. This can occur after spending too much time at high altitudes with little sun protection, such as during snow sports. Symptoms can include red, swollen eyes, but this is only temporary and can be cleared up with the right treatment.
• Cataracts – A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of your eye. Whilst they are more commonly found in older adults, they can be found in younger people too. For people with cataracts, seeing through a cloudy lens is a little bit like looking out of a fogged-up window. Cataracts can make it difficult to read, drive a car or go on with everyday life, but they can usually be removed with a minor surgery.
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a type of eye disease that can blur your central vision. This happens when aging causes damage to the macular which allows you to see more centrally.
• Eye-lid cancer – Cancers of the eyelid, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are linked to UV exposure. Symptoms of eyelid cancer can include loss of eyelashes, a sore on the eyelid that bleeds or doesn’t heel or a notch on the eyelid. If you suspect you have any of these symptoms, it’s important that you consult your GP immediately.

This is why UV protection for eyes is so important. By investing in a good-quality pair of UV sunglasses, you can give your eyes a better chance of staying healthier for longer.

How To Tell If A Pair Of Sunglasses Offers UV Protection

If you’re ever unsure about whether your sunglasses offer UV protection or not, we can help. Whether you have a pair of sunglasses from us already or you’re hoping to get a new pair, we’re here to ensure you get the best possible UV protection for your eyes.

However, as a general rule of thumb, if your sunglasses offer UV protection, they will feature the CE or UV400 mark on the frame. The CE mark shows that the sunglasses conform with the health, safety and environmental requirements of the EU, which in turn, ensures that your eyes are receiving optimal UV protection.

The category for the lens shade (0-4) will also be marked on the frame. UV protection is usually built into the lens material itself or added as a coating — our guide to lens coatings explained covers UV coatings and the other options available in more depth.

What Else Can I do To Prevent UV Damage?

In addition to investing in a good-quality pair of UV sunglasses, there are other measures you can take to prevent UV damage to your eyes.

Alongside sunglasses, wearing a hat when exposed to UV light is another simple way to protect your eyes from any UV damage. SPF is also essential. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity.

Still Have A Question?

We’re always here to help. Visit us in store to speak with our team and explore our collection of UV sunglasses. For the complete guide to choosing sunglasses lenses — UV ratings, tints, and lens types — see our Sunglasses Lens Guide. You can find your nearest store here.

The post Do I Need UV400 Protection For My Eyes? appeared first on D.I.Blow Opticians.