Buying a pair of sunglases? Here's what to look for

During summer, it is essential to have a pair of sunglasses for eye protection. Sunglasses are like sunscreen for your eyes. Sunglasses not only provide protection, they also provide protection from glare.

According to the FDA, people who spend long hours on the beach or in the snow without adequate eye protection can develop photokeratitis, reversible sunburn of the cornea. This painful condition can result in temporary loss of vision.

Here’s what to look for if you are buying a pair.

Frames- Though it’s not the most important factor in finding the right pair, you still want to look good. Look for frames that are durable and won’t break easily in your bag. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of varieties to choose from. Your best bet is to try them on and see if they look good.

Lenses- Most sunglasses have grey lenses as these lenses do not distort color or effect contrast. Red lenses enhance contrast. Be careful as red lenses also distort other colors. Brown and Green lenses enhance depth perception and increase contrast and clarity. These lenses also reduce glare. Yellow and Orange lenses increase both contrast and depth perception.

Sheryl Berman, M.D., a medical officer in the FDA's Division of Ophthalmic and Ear, Nose, and Throat Devices, says that “even when we talk about 100 percent UV protection, light still enters from the sides of sunglasses and can be reflected into the eye.” You may like sunglasses that wrap all the way around the temples. A hat with a three-inch brim can help block sunlight that comes in from overhead. It is most important to feel comfortable in any pair of sunglasses you buy.