Polarized Lenses
Free your eyes from glare
Clear vision outside tackling activities and fun in the sun; sun screen for your eyes
Benefits of polarized lenses
CLEAR VISION
Free your eyes from glare
UV PROTECTION
Protection from UV damage, for reduced risk of UV-related eye diseases such as cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other issues
EYE RELIEF
Clear vision outside tackling activities and fun in the sun; sun screen for your eyes
Polarized Lenses and Their Benefits
Unpolarized light exists all around us, which can originate from the sun, a light bulb, or even a flame. These light sources emit vibrations or waves that move in all directions. When the direction of these vibrating light waves is altered, such as by hitting a smooth surface and reflecting, the light becomes partially polarized. This is also known as glare and is caused by too many waves of light becoming partially polarized and angled horizontally toward our eyes.
Excessive amounts of partially polarized light can be harmful to your vision. Over-exposure to bright light and glare can cause squinting, eye fatigue, and even temporary blindness in extreme cases. You will know your eyes are being impacted when you are outside in a bright environment and find yourself shielding your eyes from a flash of glaring light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are polarized lenses?
Polarized lenses are specialized eyewear designed to reduce glare from surfaces like water, snow, and glass. They contain a special filter that blocks intense, reflected light, thereby enhancing visual clarity and reducing eye strain.
How do polarized lenses work?
Polarized lenses work by using a chemical film that is applied to the lens. This film contains molecules that align in parallel to each other, allowing them to selectively block horizontally polarized light, which is the kind of light that tends to create glare. By blocking this type of light, polarized lenses help improve visibility and reduce eye discomfort in bright conditions.
Are polarized lenses better than regular sunglasses?
Polarized lenses offer benefits that regular sunglasses do not, such as reducing glare from reflective surfaces, which can enhance visual clarity and comfort in bright conditions. However, whether they are "better" depends on your specific needs and activities. For outdoor activities involving water, snow, or driving, polarized lenses can be particularly beneficial. For everyday use, both polarized and regular sunglasses can provide protection from UV light.
Can polarized lenses affect the visibility of screens or displays?
Yes, polarized lenses can sometimes make it difficult to see images on LCD (liquid crystal display) screens, such as those on some smartphones, car navigation systems, and ATMs. This is because these screens also utilize a polarizing filter, and the orientation of the filter in the lenses can interfere with the visibility of the screen. However, many modern devices are designed with this in mind and may be less affected.
Are there any situations where polarized lenses should not be used?
While polarized lenses are beneficial in many scenarios, there are certain situations where they might not be ideal. For example, pilots and some professionals who rely on liquid crystal displays for important information may find polarized lenses problematic due to interference with screen visibility. Additionally, in very low light conditions, polarized lenses might not be necessary and could potentially make the environment seem darker. Always consider your specific needs and consult with an eye care professional if unsure.