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The Best Sunglasses for Light Sensitive Eyes: A Guide 

 July 15, 2023

By  Keith Terrell

Do you have light sensitive eyes? Do bright rays of the sun frequently cause you to squint when you're outside? Do your eyes start to hurt with prolonged exposure to the sun? If so, it's probably time to invest in a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sunlight - sunglasses that not only look good but also protect sensitive eyes. That's why we've curated this guide on the best sunglasses for light sensitive eyes.

Look for sunglasses that offer UV protection and are tinted grey, brown, or green to reduce the amount of sunlight entering your eyes. Polarized lenses offer extra protection from glare and can help reduce the light sensitivity of your eyes.

In this guide, we'll discuss important factors to consider when looking for sunglasses, provide reviews of our top picks, and explain why these sunglasses are great for protection against bright sunlight. So without further ado, let's get into the details.

Types of Sunglasses for Light Sensitive Eyes

When it comes to selecting the best sunglasses for light sensitive eyes, there are several factors to consider. One of these is the type of sunglasses being chosen. The types of sunglasses available for light sensitive eyes can vary and include photochromic, polarization, and even clear lenses. Each has its pros and cons, so it’s important to decide what kind works best based on individual needs.

Photochromic lenses are made from a special type of plastic that darkens when exposed to ultraviolet rays from sunlight. They offer convenience in that they automatically adjust their darkness depending on the amount of sunlight present, however, they may not block enough light in very bright environments.

Polarized lenses also provide protection from UV rays and reduce glare by blocking intense reflected light. This can be beneficial if you spend a lot of time driving or out on the water as polarized lenses will reduce the glare off those surfaces. They can, however, be more expensive than other types of sunglasses and the polarization effect may make certain camera and electronic equipment screens difficult to read.

Finally, clear lenses can provide 100% protection from both UVA and UVB radiation without significantly affecting visibility or clarity. They are ideal for indoor use such as in an office or a theatre but do not provide enough protection outdoors due to their lack of tinting.

Ultimately, the decision about which types of sunglasses to buy should be determined by considering factors like cost, lifestyle needs, and overall comfort. With some research and consideration, it should be possible to find the right pair of sunglasses that best suits an individual’s needs while providing adequate protection from light sensitivity issues.

Now that we’ve discussed different types of sunglasses available for light sensitive eyes, let’s look into the particulars around polarized lenses in the next section.

Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses are becoming increasingly popular for light-sensitive eyes. Polarized lenses reduce and eliminate the amount of UV rays and bright light that enter the eye, making them ideal for individuals who have to have bright lights or even sunny days to be able to comfortably look outside.

Proponents of polarized lenses argue that they provide better protection from more intense light than standard sunglasses. They also claim that the tinted lenses are more aesthetically pleasing since they don’t change colors under different lighting conditions, thus preserving the original color of the glasses. Moreover, when compared to regular sunglasses, polarized lenses reduce glare significantly and allow the wearer to clearly see objects in bright sunlight.

On the other hand, opponents contend that there are several potential drawbacks associated with polarized lenses. Firstly, some people may find that their visibility is reduced when wearing polarized sunglasses due to how they can darken objects or areas close to reflections—such as black pavement on a sunny day.

Additionally, while these types of glasses generally provide better protection from strong lights, they may be less effective against certain kinds of refractive light, like halos around streetlights at night or reflections off bodies of water on sunny days.

Finally, it's important to note that polarized lenses can be expensive compared to standard sunglasses; however, in this case, “you get what you pay for” as these specialized lenses offer enhanced UV protection and clarity over their non-polarized counterparts.

Polarized lenses can be a great option for someone who has light sensitivity issues and wants added protection from sunlight and UV rays. While there are potential drawbacks associated with this type of lens coating, it is still seen by many as being well worth the investment due to the added clarity it provides and its superior level of protection from intense light sources. 

Now let’s take a look at another type of lens coating designed specifically for light protection: lens coatings for light protection.

Lens Coatings for Light Protection

Lens coatings are a great way to provide extra protection for light sensitive eyes. These coatings are often referred to as glare-reducing, UV-blocking, and polarized treatments. They reduce glare from the sun and other sources of bright light; block out ultraviolet rays that can damage the eyes; and reduce reflection from surfaces such as roads, sidewalks, or water bodies.

Glare-reducing coatings are the most common type of lens coating used in sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes. They work by absorbing light instead of reflecting it away from the eye. This helps reduce the intensity of bright light entering the eye and causing discomfort. Most lenses with a glare-reducing finish will also incorporate UV protection.

Polarized treatments are another form of lens coating used in sunglasses for light-sensitive eyes. Polarization filters specific wavelengths of reflected light while allowing other wavelengths to pass through freely. This makes it difficult for reflections of that specific wavelength to enter the eye, greatly reducing discomfort from bright light sources such as glares off the pavement or water bodies. Polarized treatments are an effective way to reduce eyestrain and fatigue even when you’re outdoors in direct sunlight during sunny days.

However, there is some debate about the value of using lens coatings in sunglasses for those with light sensitivity in their eyes. Some experts argue that wearing sunglasses with no coatings may be more beneficial than wearing them with anti-reflective or polarization treatments because they make it easier to adapt to changing lighting conditions due to their ability to transmit more light than coated lenses.

On the other hand, many eye care professionals agree that having coated lenses offer added protection against bright lights and UV radiation, making them ultimately more suitable for people with light sensitivity in their eyes.

Ultimately, when choosing lens coatings for your sunglasses, you must consider your individual needs and preferences to determine what’s best for you. For extra protection against bright lights, UV radiation, and decreased visibility from glaring surfaces, consider incorporating one or more anti-reflective or polarization treatments into your next pair of sunglasses for better visual comfort and clarity.

In the next section, we will discuss glare reducing coating—a specialized type of antireflective coating designed specifically to reduce reflections from glistening surfaces like roads or oceans—and how it can further enhance the effectiveness of your sunglasses for light sensitive eyes.

Glare Reducing Coating

When shopping for sunglasses, one of the features to keep an eye out for is a glare reducing coating. Sunglasses equipped with a glare-reducing treatment can be great for light sensitive eyes, especially when spending extended amounts of time outdoors. This type of coating works by minimizing reflections off external surfaces such as water and glass which can create uncomfortable glares.

Glare reducing coatings often provide great value if you're spending a lot of time outside and need to be protected against harmful light pollution while also keeping your eyes comfortable all day long. On the other hand, some people may find that these coatings are unnecessary and opt to choose fashion over practicality. This is especially true in cases where light sensitivity isn’t a major factor due to the user’s lifestyle or environment.

At the end of the day, it’s important to carefully weigh practicality against appearance when shopping for sunglasses. In many cases, a glare reducing coating should provide enough value to make up for its effect on aesthetics.

The next section of this guide will focus on another feature promising improved comfort and protection: blue light filtering lenses.

Blue Light Filtering Lenses

Blue light filtering lenses are becoming increasingly popular amongst those with sensitive eyes. If you’re frequently using devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones then blue light lenses could be the best option for you.

Blue light can cause digital eyestrain and headaches in many individuals, making it hard to maintain comfort throughout the day. Blue light blocking technology is built into many glasses lenses these days, with some glasses offering over 90% protection from potentially harmful blue light.

The debate as to whether or not blue light filtering lenses make a difference remains contested. Those who support the technology claim that it reduces eye strain, decreases headaches, and maintains vision performance over extended periods of use. On the other hand, detractors of the technology believe there is no evidence to show that blue light lens filters make any difference to symptoms caused by computers and digital devices.

Ultimately it will be a decision made by the individual who needs glasses specifically designed to reduce blue light. For those who are highly sensitive to blue light and have difficulty maintaining comfort while using devices such as computers and smartphones, blue light blocking lenses may provide some relief from eye strain and digital fatigue.

Now that we have discussed glasses specifically designed for those with sensitivity to blue light, let's turn our attention towards sunglasses frames & style so that your look is stylish and up-to-date for the summer season.

Blue light filtering lenses are becoming increasingly popular as a potential solution for computer and device related eye strain and fatigue. While the debate remains contested as to whether or not blue light lens filters are effective, those with highly sensitive eyes may find relief in using these lenses. To ensure a stylish look for the summer season, sunglasses frames & style should also be taken into consideration.

Sunglasses Frames & Style

Sunglasses frames and style can be just as important in selecting the best pair of glasses for light sensitivity as the lenses. Not only do you want a pair of sunglasses that are protective, but you also want a pair that looks good on your face, suits your personal style, and complements your lifestyle.

When selecting a frame, it is important to remember that the size and fit should be comfortable, especially if you regularly wear them for long periods of time. Frames too large for your face will slide down your cheeks, causing discomfort and irritation when you've been wearing them for even short periods.

On the other hand, glasses too tight for your face can pinch and cause pain. A good rule of thumb is to look for frames whose width is at least half the width of your face. The temple length should also follow suit—anywhere from 1/2 to 3/4 the length of your ear is considered standard.

As far as style goes, there are so many options available that you have plenty of choices when looking for something to complement your lifestyle. Some popular frame styles include rounded or square lenses and aviators or cat-eye frames. You might also consider something more modern like holographic frames or color lenses, which can be both stylish and fun!

No matter what type of frame or style you choose, make sure it fits comfortably with no pressure points against your head or temples when wearing them—this will help guarantee optimal comfort and protection from light-sensitive eyes.

With so many different frames and styles available today, there's sure to be a perfect pair for everyone—whether you're looking for something colorful and fun or more classic and understated. As you review all the possible choices, keep in mind that whatever style you decide on needs to still provide adequate protection from light sensitivity in order to offer relief from those uncomfortable symptoms associated with it.

Now that we’ve discussed how to select an appropriate frame and style for optimal comfort and protection from light sensitive eyes, let’s move on to the next section about special needs for light sensitive eyes.

Special Needs for Light Sensitive Eyes

When it comes to selecting sunglasses for light sensitive eyes, special needs play a critical role in the decision-making process. People suffering from conditions such as ocular rosacea, blepharitis, dry eye, and Sjogren’s Syndrome require an extra level of protection above what traditional sunglasses provide.

The quality of tint that provides the necessary protection will depend on the condition of the individual's eyes and their general environment. For instance, those living in extreme climates may require specialized lenses with a higher UV rating for glare reduction and additional blue-light filtering. It is also important to ensure that the lenses have been treated with anti-reflective (AR) or anti-glare coatings to minimize halos and flare from headlights and other ambient light sources in extreme conditions.

In cases of close vision tasks, such as working on a computer for extended periods of time, polarization can help reduce digital eye strain by reducing the reflections created by screens and artificial lighting. This type of tint also helps with depth perception while driving or engaging in sports activities, making them beneficial for people who suffer from light sensitivity.

When it comes to choosing special needs lenses for light sensitive eyes, it is important to consider several factors including light protection, distortion control, and comfort. A consultation with an optician or ophthalmologist can help determine which lens type and tint will be most effective at meeting these needs. There are also several specialty glasses available that are specifically designed to address the unique situation of individuals suffering from various types of eye conditions.

It is clear that those with light sensitive eyes require specialized treatment when selecting sunglasses for their unique needs. With the appropriate lens technology, many of these people can enjoy the same degree of daily activities as those without light sensitivity issues. As we will discuss in the next section, understanding available options is an important part of achieving this objective.

The final step in creating an informed decision about protecting light sensitive eyes with sunglasses is to evaluate the full range of specialized features and options available on the market today.

In this section, we have discussed special needs for lighter sensitive eyes and explored some potential solutions for addressing them through proper lens selection. Now let’s take a look at drawing all this information together into our conclusion of this guide.

Conclusion

Finding sunglasses that offer protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and have features specifically designed for people with light sensitive eyes can be challenging. Sunglasses that cover a wide area of the face, such as wrap-around styles, are ideal for those looking for optimal protection. Lenses should also be polarized or photochromic to reduce glare and UV exposure.

Additionally, tinted lenses featuring additive color technology will provide greater comfort and gaze stability when exposed to bright lights. Lastly, considering purchasing two pairs of sunglasses - a lighter lens that can be worn indoors and a darker lens for outdoor use - can also reduce eye strain while providing the highest level of sunlight protection.

Due to the difficulty of finding perfect sunglass frames, there are some people who opt to make their own using the right lenses and frames. While this may save money in the short term, it may come at the expense of long-term eye health given that users won't have enough knowledge about crafting effective sunglass frames against dangerous UV rays.

On the other hand, it may still be beneficial for those that know what materials to use and how to build them properly in order to get adequate UV protection from their sunglasses.

Ultimately, understanding individual needs when finding sunglasses is essential in ensuring effective protection from both bright sunlight and hazardous UV rays.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What kinds of lenses should I look for in sunglasses for light sensitive eyes?

When you’re looking for sunglasses for light sensitive eyes, the most important thing to consider is what kind of lenses they have. The best choice is to look for polarized lenses. Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare and block reflected light, which can be especially harsh on sensitive eyes. They also provide excellent protection from UV rays and blue light, ensuring your eyes stay healthy.

Polarized lenses come in many varieties – including darker and mirrored options – so there’s something for everyone’s style. If possible, choosing a pair of sunglasses with a photochromic lens is also a great option. Photochromic lenses automatically darken when exposed to sunlight and adjust to various light levels throughout the day.

Finding the right sunglasses for light sensitive eyes may take some time, but it will definitely be worth it in the end!

Are there any features I should consider when choosing sunglasses for light sensitivity?

When choosing sunglasses for light sensitivity, several features should be taken into consideration.

First and foremost, you’ll want to look for lenses that offer the highest level of UV protection possible. Many sunglasses come with a label indicating the level of UV protection they can offer, so make sure to check this before making a purchase.

You may also want to consider sunglasses that have polarized lenses. Polarized lenses are designed to filter out excess levels of reflected light, which can often exacerbate issues with light sensitivity.

Finally, think about coverage: wraparound frames provide maximum eye protection from sunlight and peripheral glare. As an extra precaution, consider looking for a pair of polarized clip-on sunglasses that can easily be added to any pair of eyeglasses.

No matter what you choose, make sure your sunglasses fit properly and comfortably on your face and always seek professional advice from an optometrist if you are unsure about any aspect of their suitability for your individual needs.

What are some of the top brands of sunglasses for light sensitive eyes?

When it comes to sunglasses for light sensitive eyes, you want to look for brands that are known for the quality and effectiveness of their lens technology. Some of the top brands for this type of eyewear include Oakley, Costa, Maui Jim, Bolle, and Smith Optics.

Oakley has a collection of lenses that feature lightweight frames with high-definition optics plus polarized versions that provide maximum protection from harmful UV rays. Costa's sunglasses boast lenses that feature advanced technology designed to filter out excessive blue light while still allowing enjoyable color contrast.

Maui Jim offers an impressive selection of styles that feature extra-protective lenses with special coatings to reduce glare and minimize reflections. Bolle's lenses incorporate cutting-edge technology that helps eliminate eye fatigue throughout the day while retaining true colors.

Finally, Smith Optics stands out with its range of ChromaPop polarized lenses that maximize clarity and color accuracy without increasing eye strain. No matter which brands you decide on, investing in a pair of sunglasses designed to protect light sensitive eyes is a step in the right direction for maintaining your long-term vision health.

About the author

Keith is a one bag traveler and the owner of Sunglass Selector.

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