Emma Harris FBDO, Dispensing Optician at our Melksham practice, shares these best tips for dealing with glare, anytime of the year.
Spectacles, or sunglasses, can help reduce glare in a few ways:
Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating: Many lenses come with an anti-reflective coating. This coating reduces reflections and glare caused by light bouncing off the lens surfaces. This is particularly beneficial when driving, reading, using digital devices or spending time outdoors, for example in snowy conditions, where sunlight can reflect off the snow and create intense glare.
Polarized Lenses: Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare from reflective surfaces, such as snow and ice. They work by blocking horizontal light waves, which are often responsible for glare. This can significantly enhance visibility and comfort, especially in winter conditions with a lot of bright, reflective surfaces. They work excellent for reducing glare off of water too.
Tinted Lenses: Some eyeglasses have tinted lenses that can help reduce overall brightness and glare from the sun. Grey and brown tints are popular choices for winter conditions as they maintain true color perception while reducing brightness.
Photochromic Lenses: These lenses darken in response to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light. They can be beneficial in varying light conditions, adapting to the level of sunlight to provide appropriate protection against glare.
UV Protection: While not directly related to glare, UV protection is crucial in snowy environments. Snow reflects a significant amount of UV radiation, and prolonged exposure can lead to eye damage. Many lenses and sunglasses offer UV protection, which helps safeguard your eyes from harmful UV rays.
It's essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best eyewear options based on your specific needs, prescription, and lifestyle, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors in varying conditions.