Hello! Despite the fact that summer has long passed its equator, and the topic sunglasses is rapidly losing its relevance, this small guide may still be useful. First of all, it’s not winter yet; secondly, we often go on vacation to sunny resorts in winter; thirdly, now is the peak of discounts; finally, fourthly, glasses are not an easy thing to choose, and it takes time to find the perfect one that is just right for you. Glasses need to be looked at, measured, compared, and if you consider that good glasses can be quite expensive, then you can accumulate the necessary amount. So, next we will talk about manufacturers, materials, how to care, and also give some tips on how to how to choose men's sunglasses.

Before proceeding directly to the advice, let's answer this seemingly strange question: What are sunglasses for? And are they even necessary?

Device human eye can be compared with magnifying glass, which, passing a ray of sunlight through itself, can ignite a fire. The lens here acts as a lens, which greatly enhances the effect of the beam, which can easily burn the retina. Alas, people are not able to openly look at the sun.

Man is a vulnerable creature, and he is forced to compensate for the imperfections of his body with all kinds of devices. Glasses with dark lenses became the invention that allowed us to look at the sun without squinting.

You can, of course, ignore the achievements of civilization and simply squint your eyes in the bright sun, but in this case the risk of receiving a dose increases ultraviolet rays, and the appearance of extra wrinkles in the eye area is unlikely to please anyone. Among other things, glasses are a wonderful men's accessory in terms of style. And if you approach the issue skillfully, then the exact finishing touch to your outfit is guaranteed.

Models

Let's start with the models. Here are the most famous ones that became hits and took their place in collections firmly and for a long time. They can be safely purchased and worn as long as they complement your face (more on that below) and suit your lifestyle and situation.

Ray-Ban Aviators

They were invented in 1936 for the needs of American pilots. Aviator lenses have a teardrop shape that optimally matches the field of view of the human eye. To this day, this model is perhaps the most popular among both men and women.

Ray-Ban Wayfarers

This model, the appearance of which in the 50s can be called a revolution in the world of sunglasses thanks to the plastic frame of an unusual shape for that time (before that, frames were made mainly of metal). Having experienced a peak of popularity in the 50s and 60s, a temporary oblivion in the 70s, and a new rise in the 80s, now (around the mid-2000s) Wayfarer is back in sight. There are several varieties, in the photo - the very first, old-school model.

Ray-Ban Clubmasters

Just like the two models listed above, it is one of the so-called “iconic” Ray-Ban models. Eyeglasses “browline” (thickened) top part frames), invented in 1947, were in use in the 50-60s. among the educated, intelligent segments of the population. Now, in the wake of the love for retro, they have also become very popular.

Persol 649 and 714

Persol is a famous Italian company founded in 1917. Iconic models are the 649 (or the modernized 9649 with a thinner frame), as well as the folding 714 model, made famous in part by actor Steve McQueen and the 1968 film The Thomas Crown Affair. The glasses are truly successful in both design and workmanship. Eat common roots with aviators, but at the same time it is an independent model. Very comfortable, thanks to the patented Meflecto technology, which allows for flexible temples to fit almost any head size. Quite expensive: in Moscow the 649 model can be buy for 14 thousand rubles, 714 - 20 thousand rubles. In foreign online stores - about 200 - 230 pounds.

Original or fake?

People often argue: what is more reasonable - to buy high-quality expensive glasses in a reliable store or a fake for 500 rubles. on the market. It is widely believed that cheap glasses do not have UV protection, making them dangerous to buy. This is partly a myth, since many Chinese factories that churn out tons of fakes have long ago learned how to make an effective protective coating against UV rays. The problem is that you cannot be sure exactly in each specific case, and reliability can only be checked using special equipment. Expensive branded glasses with appropriate markings will relieve you of such doubts. This issue should not be neglected, since looking at the sun with glasses without UV protection is much more dangerous than not wearing glasses at all, since in the second case you squint your eyes, and in the first case the eye is completely open.

As with everything, you shouldn’t focus entirely on price alone. The key to a successful purchase will be a trusted store, as well as your subjective sensations: visual and tactile. That is, when buying glasses, you need to carefully examine them, touch them, fold them and unfold them, and, of course, try them on. This is the main reason why sunglasses It’s still better to buy not in an online store. Although there is a way out: you can try it on anywhere, and buy it wherever you like.

So, you have made a choice in favor of original glasses and are prepared to shell out a decent amount (3-15 thousand rubles). Naturally, you want to get 100% quality for your money, which means it’s worth studying the subject in more detail.

How to distinguish an outright fake from real sunglasses?

• Original glasses are sold complete with good packaging and, often, a cleaning cloth.
• Details at good points should fit tightly to each other, the hinges move smoothly, the bolts are well tightened, the lenses are firmly mounted in the frame.
• If the frame is iron, then it should be monolithic, without soldering.
• On real glasses inside The temples are marked with the name of the manufacturer and the marking of the collection (photo). The method is questionable, since counterfeit manufacturers are also not lazy to do this.

It is often quite difficult to distinguish fake glasses from real ones, but sometimes it is very easy to do:

Brands

Now, actually, about the brands themselves. There are a great many of them, but in fact the entire sunglasses market is divided between three companies, each of which owns these brands. Alas, gone are the days when Ray-Ban and Persol were independent companies. Today they are under the wing of the Italian giant Luxottica and create the illusion of competition. Here are the three main players with more than 90% of the global market share, as well as some of their brands:

Luxottica ( Ray Ban, Persol, Oakley, Oliver Peoples, Ralph Lauren)

Safilo (Carrera, Polaroid)

Marcolin (Diesel, Ermenegildo Zegna, Tom Ford)

Despite the fact that there are only three companies, this does not mean that the quality of all brands of one company is no different. Standards and approaches are still different depending on the brand.

Here are a few brands of sunglasses at different price points that are worth considering:

Ray-Ban, Persol, Oliver Peoples, Warby Parker, Moscot, Tom Ford, LGR, Polo Ralph Lauren.

Style

Of course, we should not forget that sunglasses, depending on the style, may be appropriate or inappropriate in a given situation, match your clothes or be disharmonious. That is, it is necessary style matching. Here we need some guidelines, at least a conditional division of glasses into formal and informal, casual. Here we will borrow an infographic from Dappered, since this is a fairly comprehensive description that gives an idea of ​​formal (dress) sunglasses, most appropriate with a business suit, informal (casual), and the diagram clearly shows the division into modern (modern) and retro. Please note that in the center, as a kind of absolute and reference point, are Ray-Ban New Wayfarer.

As you can see, there are no “streamlined” glasses in the picture. The same ridiculous style that tried to come into fashion in the 80s and 90s. Please think twice before buying them.

Since we are talking about bad taste, it is worth mentioning here wearing dark glasses indoors. Friends, you fold your umbrella when entering the subway. Sunglasses also look strange in the absence of sun.

Frame and lens material

Most sunglass lenses today are made from plastic. However, glass is also a fairly common material. For example, Persol 649 and 714 lenses are glass. The advantage of plastic is that the lenses are more resistant to impact, and such glasses are lighter, but scratches will appear faster on the plastic. Glass lenses, in turn, are not protected from chipping. They are also easy to break. If we talk about clarity and undistortedness, then high-quality plastic will prevail.

Lens color also important characteristic points. The color range is quite wide: blue, yellow, orange, green, but Gray and brown lenses are considered the most comfortable for the human eye. They provide the most “correct” perception and clarity, and the eyes, accordingly, get the least tired.

Polarized lenses effectively protect the eyes from reflected reflections (from snow, water, etc.) sunlight. Good at fishing and skiing.

An important option may be the ability to replace lenses. Inquire before purchasing. It is often cheaper to replace lenses than to buy new glasses.

Frame material It can be anything, but most often it is plastic or metal. Steel, titanium, less often - aluminum or monel (an alloy of nickel and copper). Titan - ideal option, since it is stronger than steel, lighter than aluminum and also safe for allergy sufferers, however, it is technologically difficult to color, so titanium glasses come in a limited color range.

As for plastic, when purchasing, you should take a closer look at the color of the frame. The fact is that there are two technologies for producing frames. Expensive - they are made using the so-called block-cut technology, in which the frame is “cut” from a single piece of acetate, thereby achieving the most saturated and multi-dimensional color, as well as greater strength of the material. In this case, the plastic gets its color naturally. This is especially noticeable in glasses with a complex multi-shade texture.

Acetate is a high quality plastic. The best acetate frames are produced in Italy and small Japanese factories. Less expensive frames are made by casting plastic into a mold and then painting it.

Face shape and proportions

Of course, glasses should suit you. This concept includes matching the size of glasses and the features of your face, the shape of your face and the shape of the frame, the color of the glasses and the shades of your skin, hair, and eyes. However, first of all, you must be sure that the glasses do not cause physical discomfort: they sit loosely on the bridge of the nose (not high or low), do not fall off, the temples do not squeeze the temples, and lie comfortably on the ears. In general, the less you feel them, the better. If everything is in order here, then you should think about Do the glasses suit your shape and color?.

The principles of balance and compensation apply here. In other words, when choosing glasses, you should balance your facial features and avoid any imbalances. It's all about leveling and removing the emphasis from an already existing pronounced characteristic. For example, round shape faces should not be enhanced by round (or almost round) glasses; An angular frame would look better here:

It is not difficult to guess whether with a square or rectangular face it is recommended to do the same: avoid angular frames and look at displays with glasses with rounded lenses, such as aviators:

By the way, one more point regarding proportions. As you can see in the photo above, glasses with thin frames are in harmony with the small features of the face. A massive frame would look like an alien element here.

An elongated face should be given a little width:

Here are more examples of balancing: a massive bottom is visually offset by wide glasses with thick frames. The facial features are large, therefore the glasses should not contrast sharply.

As you understand, if you have inverse proportions, a weak jaw and a wide forehead and cheekbones, you need to try glasses that are visually lighter, with thin frames.

An oval face shape is considered best suited for most glasses. You are lucky if you have a regular oval shaped face, as you can choose almost any sunglasses you like. You only have to worry about the size.

By the way, this is one of the key points when choosing: glasses that are too small, in addition to their external inconsistency, will allow sunlight to pass through the edges; glasses that are too large run the risk of looking comical.

How to store and care

A special microfiber cloth is an indispensable tool for lens care. Usually it comes with glasses. It is better to wipe with such a cloth, and not with a T-shirt, for example. If there are large particles of dust on your glasses that can scratch the lenses, it is better to first wash the glasses with water and liquid soap, and then dry them carefully with a soft cloth.

For storage, it is better to use a hard case; in extreme cases, you can get by with a soft one (leather, for example), but you should not just throw your glasses in your bag or carry them in your trouser pocket. It is also not recommended to wear glasses on your head. Firstly, the loops will become loose over time and the arms will lose their elasticity. Secondly, there are better ways to wear glasses in terms of style:

Etiquette

One point that is often overlooked is etiquette. Should I take it off? sunglasses when meeting a person? If you are polite and tactful, and do not want to create barriers to communication (and sunglasses are certainly a barrier to communication), then the answer is yes, you should. At least in the first seconds of the meeting, eye contact is necessary for open communication. Just take off your glasses briefly when meeting to meet your interlocutor's gaze.

In modern everyday life sunglasses have become as necessary an accessory as a watch or an umbrella. It is up to us to take advantage of this and make a thoughtful, smart choice, buying not just a functional, useful item, but also an item that is not devoid of style, like everything else you own. Choose, try on, don’t make impulsive, rash purchases, and a few examples below will help you better navigate the world of sunglasses.

Even more interesting materials in our groups.

The life of any modern person is simply impossible without the use of fashionable and high-quality sunglasses.

This is not just a stylish accessory - correctly selected glasses can provide reliable protection from negative influence ultraviolet radiation. Thanks to this, everyone can maintain the health of their eyes for a long time.

The most important point when buying glasses is the choice of material used to make the lenses. There can be only two options - glass or plastic. Both materials have a number of advantages and disadvantages.

Plastic lenses

Glasses made of plastic are highly durable. If the surface is damaged, they do not crumble into a large number of fragments and therefore cannot harm the eyes. Another undoubted advantage of such lenses is their light weight.

However, plastic also has a significant drawback: it transmits ultraviolet rays in full. To prevent this from happening, a coating is applied to the lenses, which creates a blocking layer.

Plastic is very easy can be scratched, and therefore such glasses need to be stored in a durable case. In addition, at high temperatures this material can become deformed, which will distort your perception of reality.

Glass lenses

Glass glasses do not transmit ultraviolet radiation, so you don’t have to worry about the health of your eyes. In addition, glass is much less susceptible to various damages.

At the same time, there is a serious risk of eye damage if glasses break. Therefore, people who are fond of active sports or drive a car are better off not buying such an accessory.

In addition, glass lenses weigh slightly more than plastic ones.

Looking at the world through colored lenses

Today in stores you can find a large number of glasses of various shades. To prevent damage to your eyes, it is imperative to know the characteristics of different colors.

According to ophthalmologists, the most safe option glasses with lenses are considered gray and green.

In the first case, the light waves are distributed evenly, due to which it is possible to achieve a real perception of colors. In the second, you can easily protect your eyes from fatigue and overstrain.

Red glasses significantly change perception the surrounding world. You can temporarily lose orientation in space in them. Doctors say that wearing such an accessory is allowed for a maximum of two hours a day.

Lenses yellow create cheerful and positive mood . This accessory is great for cloudy days. It can also be used by drivers at dusk.

Glasses with blue-tinted lenses cause the glasses to widen. This can lead to burns and damage to the lens, so it is advisable not to purchase such an accessory.

In addition, motorists should take into account that red, blue and green glasses distort color reproduction, so you should not wear such an accessory while driving.

Which frame to choose for glasses

When choosing frames, you also need to take into account several important points. It absolutely must be done made from quality materials, be durable and not cause allergic reactions.

It is also very important that the frame is as convenient as possible. An incorrectly selected accessory can impair blood circulation, which will cause constant headaches and high fatigue.

And, of course, when choosing a frame you need take into account appearance and hair color:

• For people with fair hair, frames in contrasting shades are suitable – blue and black are considered a universal option. You can also afford a color version, provided that it organically complements the entire image.
• Dark-haired people should choose light options– golden and silver shades will look great.
• People with red hair have a fairly bright appearance, and therefore the most extravagant options are suitable for them - for example, yellow or lilac shades.

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Selecting frames according to face shape

• Owners of an oval face shape can choose absolutely any glasses, since this type of appearance considered universal.
• People with a square face can choose glasses with round edges, and they should sit high on the bridge of the nose. Thanks to this accessory, you will be able to smooth out too many cheekbones and give your face a more correct shape.
• Those with a round face should pay attention to glasses with dark frames; preferably, they have rounded edges.
• For people with a triangular face, oval glasses are perfect. It is worth choosing an accessory with small lenses of a neutral color and a thin metal frame.
• Those with a rectangular face may want to consider wearing glasses. dark colors, it is desirable that they have a fairly massive frame and a wide membrane on the bridge of the nose.

UV eye protection

Today the most popular plastic lenses. Depending on the amount of ultraviolet radiation transmitted, they are divided into three categories:

1. Cosmetic. Such glasses can be classified as aesthetic, since they bring little health benefits: the level of transmitted ultraviolet radiation is 51-100%. It is advisable to wear this accessory during the period of least sun activity.
2. Universal. Ophthalmologists believe that such glasses are excellent for use in the city. They allow less than half of the UV rays to pass through—20 to 50%—and provide adequate eye protection from the sun.
3. Special. These lenses can provide the most reliable sun protection. It is recommended to use such glasses near water, in high mountains, on ski slopes, that is, in conditions of increased exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Properly selected sunglasses should not only harmoniously complement your image, but also to serve reliable protection from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

The color of the lenses and the shape of the frame are of great importance. Therefore, you should treat such an acquisition very carefully and take into account all the important features.

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Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time to seriously think about protection from sun rays

You need to protect not only your skin, but also your eyes. The optimal protection for your eyes from the bright sun is sunglasses. How to choose them correctly? Today it is a question not so much of aesthetics, but, first of all, of health. After all, even the name of this current spring-summer accessory says: its main function is to protect the eyes and the skin around them from harmful effects ultraviolet rays.

Any fashion trends and designer frames are not the most compelling argument when choosing sunglasses if you even think a little about the health of your eyes. Much more important technical specifications sun protection optics, allowing you to protect your eyes from the destructive effects of the sun.

In extreme eye conditions - for example, on a bright day or on mountain slopes, poor-quality glasses can cause irreparable damage to your vision, including central eye degeneration and cataracts. The sun's rays pose a particular danger to older people, since the amount of melanin pigment, which protects the eyes, decreases with age. Therefore, for pensioners who no longer think about fashion, sunglasses are vital.

What to look for when choosing glasses? If you don’t want to delve into the intricacies of your choice, buy branded sunglasses. Brands care about their image, so they do not produce a product that is hazardous to health. In general, high-quality glasses imply not only stylishness and vision protection, but also ensuring image clarity with the ability to change its brightness without changing color rendition.

Reasons for wearing

Here's what strong arguments are cited by ophthalmologists and physicists who strongly recommend not leaving your eyes unprotected:

Serious and sometimes irreversible damage to the visual organs from UV rays can appear five hours after active influence sun on your eyes. The most dangerous consequences UV irradiation - the occurrence of cataracts, burns of the cornea of ​​the eye, partial loss of vision.

If you notice watery eyes after spending a day in the sun without sunglasses, painful sensations in the eyes in bright light, vision deterioration, then most likely the eyes were attacked by UV radiation and lost in this battle. The most reasonable thing in this situation is to immediately run for a consultation with an ophthalmologist.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is always dangerous for the human eye. UV waves, even in small doses, will not benefit the eyes; they are always a damaging factor.

Active exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes photokeratitis - sunburn cornea of ​​the eye, which can lead to temporary loss of vision. Previously, this phenomenon was often observed among polar explorers or skiers, which is why ophthalmologists call it “snow blindness.” Today, photokeratitis most often affects those who vacation at equatorial resorts and do not wear sunglasses. Remember: the closer to the equator you are, the more intense your eyes will be exposed to UV rays. Another rule is that the higher you go in the mountains or closer to the water, the more aggressive the UV radiation behaves. This means that the more you need sunglasses.

It turns out that even cloudy weather is not a reason to stop wearing sunglasses. Experts say that enough ultraviolet rays pass through clouds that are harmful to the eyes.

Which lenses do you prefer?

So, the benefits of wearing sunglasses are obvious. The question remains - how to choose not just a beautiful accessory, but also reliable protection?

It turns out that darkened glasses lenses do not always indicate UV protection. Most sunglasses with plastic lenses are cheap replicas famous brand, or even a fake that is dangerous to health. They transmit up to 100% of UV rays, even being “blacker than black”. Moreover, the blacker such glasses are, the more dangerous they are! In bright light, the pupil of the eye contracts to reduce the risk of potential burns - this natural protection from UV radiation is provided to us by nature. And in cheap dark glasses without ultraviolet filters, the pupil remains “deceived.” It doesn't shrink, taking over sunstroke in full.

When choosing the right sunglasses, it is important to know a few nuances. First and most important point- the material from which the lenses are made. There are few options - lenses are made of either glass or plastic. Each material has advantages and disadvantages.

Plastic lenses

Their advantage is that plastic glasses are difficult to break - they do not crumble into dangerous fragments, but turn into cobweb crumbs, safe for the eyes and skin. Plastic lenses are also lightweight, and such glasses are much lighter compared to glass ones.

But here is a significant disadvantage - any plastic transmits 100% of ultraviolet radiation. Thus, the safety criterion for plastic lenses consists only of the quality of the material and filters that are used to create a blocking layer on the glasses.

Another drawback: plastic lenses are easily scratched. Carrying them in a purse without a case is the same as with my own hands scratch with a knife. Additionally, extreme heat can warp the plastic.

Glass lenses

It would seem that glass has more advantages than disadvantages. Indeed, unlike plastic, glass does not transmit ultraviolet radiation, even if the lenses themselves are transparent. You can choose glasses with minimal darkening and be calm about the health of your eyes. Another advantage of glass sunglasses is that glass lenses are less susceptible to scratches.

But there are also disadvantages. Glass is a dangerous material, especially in such close proximity to the eyes. If you like active sports or drive a car, then it’s better not to think about glass lenses, the risk is too great.

The choice with maximum protection

Today plastic lenses are very popular. Depending on the amount of ultraviolet rays transmitted, they are conventionally divided into classes in sunglasses:

Cosmetic
Marking on labels - Cosmetic. These lenses can be classified more as aesthetic than actually safe for health - they transmit from 51 to 100% of UV rays. It makes sense to choose them only during the season when the sun is inactive.

Universal
Marking - General. Ophthalmologists claim that this category of lenses is ideal for the Russian climate. Such lenses transmit less than half of the dangerous radiation, 20-50%. Sunglasses of this class are suitable for wearing in the city, where a large stream of sunlight does not reach the ground.

Special
Marking - High UV-protection. These lenses reliably protect the retina from burns. These sunglasses will be simply indispensable on vacation, especially on the ski slopes, where snow increases the amount of sunlight.

What does the label say?

Information about what class the lenses belong to is usually available on the label. But in mandatory it is indicated in the certificate for the sunglasses. Most often the inscription says the following: “Blocks at least 80% UVB and 55% UVA.” This means that the lenses block 80% of UVB and 55% of UVA.

You don't need to bother your head with the intricacies of the differences between UV waves different lengths- any UV waves are dangerous to the eyes.

Something else needs to be taken into account - the higher the percentage, the better eye protection you get. Ophthalmologists advise choosing sunglasses in which both indicators are more than 50 percent.

Color is important too!

For relaxing on the beach or sailing, glasses with polarized lenses are ideal, which, in addition to ultraviolet radiation, will neutralize glare on the water. Their color should be dark green or gray.

It is better to relax in the mountains and ski in gray or brown glasses with a mirror coating. Glasses with phytochrome “chameleon” glasses that change color depending on the light provide excellent protection from the sun.

And you also need to remember - even with the most reliable glasses, you should not look directly at the sun. Wear high-quality sunglasses - and you will not only be elegant, but also healthy!

Photo by Flickr user Namu Lim

Please note:

The eyes are the most revealing, and in a sense, the most intimate part of our body.

Thanks to this, even shy and insecure ladies allow themselves to sunbathe topless.

And most importantly, glasses give a feeling of anonymity, incognito, and hence a feeling of peace and confidence: in private we rarely have complexes. Figuratively speaking, a person wearing sunglasses sees more than himself is visible.

These mirrors of the soul give us away before anything else.

Therefore, we always want to hide them deeper.

It is much easier for us to cope with facial expressions and gestures, it is easier to maintain a conversation on a certain note, but it is much more difficult to control our eyes.

And nothing can disguise your eyes better than sunglasses.

Psychologists are sure that they have a double sexual effect.

1. Firstly, the woman herself feels more “sexy” in glasses.
2. Secondly, this feeling is transmitted to the man: a sexy lady seems more attractive to him.

So sunglasses are a very sexy attribute of our appearance.

Men's sunglasses are no less important!

Now let's look at the man wearing sunglasses.

According to established stereotypes, often originating from cinematic cliches, the man in sunglasses looks somewhat brutal, sometimes even sinister. There is some threat emanating from him - his actions are unpredictable. We do not see his eyes, and therefore do not know what to expect from him.

In short, sunglasses help you get rid of inhibitions and make a certain impression. And they need to be used in cases where it is necessary to overcome a certain barrier. They will help when meeting a girl (boy), on a first date, at any conflict situation when you need to show yourself cooler than you are.

However, you need to keep in mind that there are situations in which dark glasses are illegal. This happens in cases where it is customary to play openly, for example, during negotiations.

Let's find out what should be the first consideration when choosing.

How to choose the right sunglasses?

To protect your eyes from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays and give your face a more perfect form, woman needs sunglasses. An ophthalmologist, consultant at the Moscow medical center"Optical" Svetlana Grigorievna Ershova.

This is important!

Our eyes are very sensitive to various external stimuli.

Perhaps the most important of them are ultraviolet rays, the activity of which increases significantly in the spring and intensifies even more in the summer. Their constant impact on the cornea of ​​the eyes can provoke a general deterioration in vision and even the appearance of early cataracts.

To prevent any of this from happening to your eyes, make it a rule: in spring and summer, sunny days When going outside or driving a car, always wear sunglasses. Fortunately, choosing suitable optics with dark glasses, including diopters, is now not a problem.

The main thing when choosing is the right lenses

The main thing in sunglasses is not the frame, as some women believe, but the lenses. They must be glass.

If the lenses are made of plastic, they may become deformed when exposed to high temperature and any image through such lenses will be perceived distorted.

Pay attention to the color of the lenses - most often brown, less often - gray or green. The darker the shade of any of these colors, the more light the lenses are able to absorb.

Take a good look at the inside of your glasses. The markings you'll find on one of them will tell you what color the lenses are and what percentage of light they absorb.

So, “B-15” are brown (from English brown) lenses that transmit 15% and block 85% of light; “G-20” - gray (from English gray) or green (from green) lenses that transmit 20% and block 80% of light. It is advisable to choose glasses with a lower number, for example “B-15” or “G-15”, rather than “B-20” or “G-20”. This way you can protect your eyes as much as possible from ultraviolet rays.

If you are going to spend a vacation at sea or in the mountains in spring or summer, choose special, multifunctional glasses that protect your eyes well from the sun in any conditions. The lenses of such glasses can be of any color, but must have a mirror coating. It very effectively reflects especially bright, sometimes simply blinding sunlight from sea ​​water or on snowy peaks mountains Glasses with “mirror” lenses can be worn in the city, even if the sun is not so bright. It won't hurt your eyes.

But if you are an avid motorist, glasses with a mirror coating are especially suitable for you. During the day they will reflect the sun hitting your eyes through the windshield, and at night they will reflect the blinding light of the headlights of oncoming cars. In addition, pay attention to special glasses for motorists, the polarizing lenses of which not only protect your eyes from the sun and headlights, but also enhance visual perception the main “road” colors are red, yellow, green.

A tag attached to one of the temples should indicate that these are glasses for motorists. The color of their lenses should not confuse you - it can be anything. Polarizing agents included in lens glass do not affect their color in any way.

What are chameleon glasses

Standing apart in all the variety of lenses for sunglasses are photochromic lenses - with silver - which are commonly called “chameleons” in everyday life. They are famous for the most gentle protection of the eyes from light, as they darken gradually as its brightness increases. In this case, the strain on the eyes is reduced, because they are protected exactly as much as required. at the moment. This is why glasses with chameleon lenses can be worn all day without taking them off.

If you are nearsighted or farsighted, try to choose glasses with diopters, the frames of which have photochromic lenses inserted - “chameleons”. You will be comfortable in them both indoors and outdoors. If for some reason you don’t like them, buy sunglasses with simple dark lenses, but with diopters.

Finding these is not a problem now. This requires a glasses prescription from an ophthalmologist and good store optics, which not only sells finished products, but also accept orders for the production of glasses. Including extraordinary ones: for example, sun protection, with glasses with different diopters.

How to evaluate quality

No matter how good the store is, the final assessment of the quality of the sunglasses is up to you. Therefore, first of all, pay attention to their price.

Branded quality glasses with good lenses and the frame cannot cost less than $50. Tempted by the cheapness, you risk purchasing glasses that are harmful to your eyes, the lenses of which only darken the image, but do not block the access of ultraviolet rays.

ABOUT high quality glasses is evidenced by the inscription on the inside of one of the arms - “UV-PROTECTION” (translated from English as “ultraviolet protection”).

Try on glasses!

If they do not distort colors and images, the quality is obvious.

Good photochromic lenses - "chameleons" - should have a uniform darkening, which is easy to check in the sun, while bad lenses darken in turns, or in spots. Under artificial lighting, for example, good “chameleon” lenses do not darken at all, but bad ones will change color even under a table lamp.

In addition, the quality of glasses can be assessed by the frame. A decent plastic or metal frame should hold the lenses well and not have any burrs or sag, be fairly heavy and not bent. The temples of such frames move freely and are securely attached to the glasses - most often with the help of invisible, soldered hinges, similar to door hinges, which do not become loose during use and do not fall out. Bad frames of cheap glasses are usually very light and not entirely smooth.

The arms are always attached to them with screws, which fall out every time if they are not tightened in time. Typically, such glasses are enough for one spring-summer season, while high-quality glasses serve faithfully for several years. To prolong their life, always keep your glasses in a hard case and never place them face down on a hard surface. If necessary, wipe lenses with a special dry velvet cloth made of soft suede.

When the frame suits you

Even the most expensive sunglasses will look bad on you if you choose them casually, without taking into account your facial features. Meanwhile, they can highlight the attractive aspects of the face and correct its imperfections.

• So, if you are round-faced, pay attention to rectangular glasses, without rounded parts, with frames of a very dark color. They will make your face look narrower.
• A square face takes on a more regular shape if the width of the cheekbones is optically reduced and the chin is lowered. Glasses with a slightly rounded shape and a thin metal frame, sitting high on the bridge of your nose, will help you achieve this effect.
• A rectangular face is characterized by some elongation, which can be reduced by wearing massive glasses with a wide bridge on the bridge of the nose, in black or dark brown frames.
• If you have triangular face, choose glasses that sit low on the bridge of the nose, with thin oval-shaped metal frames, with small lenses in soft colors. In them, a too wide forehead and a narrow chin will look more balanced.
• Almost any sunglasses will suit the most correct oval-shaped face.

It often happens that glasses, while giving the face a more attractive shape, cannot hide the imperfections of the nose. In this case, you will need to do several fittings. Please note that it is too long nose can be shortened by glasses frames with upturned edges and a double bridge on the bridge of the nose.

A large nose will be slightly reduced by a large frame that goes well over the cheekbones. A small nose will not seem like a button in a light frame with a curved bridge on the bridge of the nose. Taking the time to choose your sunglasses will make you look even more attractive and protect your eyes from UV rays.

source: http://www.medpulse.ru/health/sight/prophylaxis/4239.html

Why does the sun harm our eyes?

The natural protection of the eye is provided by the pigment melanin, the amount of which in the eyes decreases with age. Therefore, intense exposure to solar radiation on the eyes can lead to problems and cause eye diseases such as central degeneration or cataracts.

For example, even short-term observation solar eclipse without appropriate eye protection led to a decrease in people's vision, which was subsequently only partially restored.

What to consider when choosing glasses

The selection of sunglasses in stores is so wide that it can be very difficult to sort through them. To do right choice, you need to understand where and how you are going to use your sunglasses.

Quality glasses not only protect your eyes, but also provide comfort and image clarity. Ideally, sunglasses should change the brightness of the image, but not change the color rendition.

Material

Lenses made of high-quality polymer materials, for example, polycarbonate, block ultraviolet rays of types A and B. Glass also blocks ultraviolet radiation significantly, but not completely.

But infrared radiation, which is also undesirable for the eyes, passes through both plastic and glass.

Light and color

It would seem that the darker the glasses, the better they should protect the eyes. But intensely colored lenses are not always able to block solar radiation. If the lenses are simply colored and do not have UV protection properties, the dose is even greater than that received through clear lens. After all, the pupils dilate behind dark lenses.

Attention!

Poor quality sunglasses contribute to more eye damage from ultraviolet radiation. This is especially true for children and adolescents, since they are more likely to be outdoors during the day than adults.

A good addition to sunglasses is a visor or cap. They block about half of the sun's rays.

Radiation protection

High-quality sunglasses have special markings that help you make the right choice depending on your needs. The level of protection is indicated in the inserts supplied with the glasses.

They also contain information about the conditions in which the glasses are recommended for use (mountains, water surface, city, etc.).

• “0” – light transmission 80–100 percent. Minimum protection against all types of ultraviolet radiation.
• “1”, “2” – light transmission, respectively, 43–80 percent and 18–43 percent. These glasses are recommended for use in urban environments, since they only partially protect against ultraviolet radiation.
• “3” – light transmission 8–18 percent. This type of glasses can be chosen for regular beach holiday and going out into nature.
• “4” – light transmission 3–8 percent. This is a very dark filter designed for high altitudes and hot countries.

Polarized lenses

Polarizing filters prevent intense reflection of light from surfaces (wet asphalt, snow, ice, water) from reaching the eyes, leading to poor visibility. By cutting off the harmful part of the “light”, they provide more comfortable and clear vision.

Photochromic lenses

Photochromic lenses are able to respond to ultraviolet radiation by changing the amount of light transmitted.

They are used in so-called chameleon glasses, which darken in the sun, and in the absence of sunlight their lenses become transparent. There are sun lenses that combine both polarizing and photochromic properties.

When choosing sunglasses with photochromic lenses Consider darkening speed and lightening speed, as well as temperature sensitivity.

By the way, photochromic agents are special substances used in the production of such lenses - when low temperatures more active. That is, in the heat, the darkening of photochromic lenses is less, and the eyes are less protected by them.

Over time, the photochromic agents in the lenses may wear out and the lens darkening will weaken. Therefore, such glasses must be regularly replaced with new ones.

How to choose the right glasses?

1. Decide in advance what you need sunglasses for.
2. If you have vision problems or eye diseases, be sure to consult an ophthalmologist before choosing sunglasses.
3. Avoid buying sunglasses from stalls and markets. Quality glasses don't have to be expensive. Choose from those sold in stores, such as travel stores, that have clear labeling and inserts.
4. Carefully study the labeling of the glasses - it indicates how much ultraviolet rays the lenses of the glasses transmit, whether they are able to adapt to the brightness of the light or remove glare.
5. If you drive a car or often go out into the sun and back, buy glasses with photochromic lenses. To relax in the snowy mountains, it is better to purchase glasses with polarized lenses.

For many people, sunglasses are just a fashion accessory. However, first of all, they are intended to protect the eyes - both in the summer, and on a resort vacation at any time of the year, and during winter sports.

The choice must be approached very responsibly, because low-quality glasses can cause harm instead of benefit.

Vladimir Neroev, director of the Helmholtz Moscow Research Institute of Eye Diseases, tells how to choose sunglasses.

Why does the sun harm your eyes?

Pigment provides natural eye protection melanin, the amount of which in the eyes decreases with age. Therefore, intense exposure to solar radiation on the eyes can lead to problems and cause eye diseases such as central degeneration or cataracts.

For example, even a short-term observation of a solar eclipse without appropriate eye protection led to a decrease in people's vision, which was subsequently only partially restored.

What is sunlight

Sunlight is primarily a combination of ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation. Depending on the wavelength, UV radiation is divided into:

- long wave ( type A rays) – the least dangerous range (it is what causes tanning), but the effect accumulates over a lifetime and accelerates skin aging,
- medium wave ( type B rays) – in this range, radiation has a higher energy and, when present in sufficient quantities, causes dermatitis, burns and other skin damage,
- shortwave ( type C rays) is the most dangerous range, but it is almost completely blocked by the ozone layer of the earth’s atmosphere.

Ultraviolet radiation is uneven at different latitudes. It is much more intense near the equator, decreasing as it moves away from it. Ultraviolet radiation poses the greatest danger during the daytime.

Its influence increases when reflected from certain surfaces, increasing the total dose. For example, snow reflects about 90 percent of sunlight, water about 70 percent, and grass only 3 percent.

Infrared radiation is largely dissipated due to atmospheric moisture, but can also pose a serious danger, especially in combination with ultraviolet radiation.

What to consider when choosing glasses

The selection of sunglasses in stores is so wide that it can be very difficult to sort through them. To make the right choice, you need to understand where and how you are going to use your sunglasses.

High-quality glasses not only protect your eyes, but also provide comfort and image clarity. Ideally, sunglasses should change the brightness of the image, but not change the color rendition.

Choosing material

Lenses made from high-quality polymer materials, e.g. polycarbonate, block ultraviolet rays of types A and B. Glass also significantly blocks ultraviolet radiation, but not completely.

But infrared radiation, which is also undesirable for the eyes, passes through both plastic and glass.

Light and color

It would seem that the darker the glasses, the better they should protect the eyes. But intensely colored lenses are not always able to block solar radiation.

If the lenses just painted and do not have UV protection properties, its dose is even greater than that received through a transparent lens. After all, the pupils dilate behind dark lenses. Therefore, poor-quality sunglasses contribute to greater eye damage from ultraviolet radiation.

This is especially true for children and adolescents, since they are more likely to be outdoors during the day than adults.

A good addition to sunglasses - visor or cap. They block about half of the sun's rays.

Radiation protection

Quality sunglasses have a special marking, helping you make the right choice depending on your needs. The level of protection is indicated in the inserts supplied with the glasses. They also contain information about the conditions in which the glasses are recommended for use (mountains, water surface, city, etc.).

— «0» – light transmission 80-100 percent. Minimum protection against all types of ultraviolet radiation.
— "1", "2"– light transmission, respectively, 43-80 percent and 18-43 percent. These glasses are recommended for use in urban environments, since they only partially protect against ultraviolet radiation.
— "3"– light transmission 8–18 percent. This type of glasses can be chosen for regular beach holidays and outdoor trips.
— "4"– light transmission 3–8 percent. This is a very dark filter designed for high altitudes and hot countries.

Polarized lenses

Polarizing filters block the eyes intense light reflection from surfaces (wet asphalt, snow, ice, water), leading to poor visibility. By cutting off the harmful part of the “light”, they provide more comfortable and clear vision.

Photochromic lenses

Photochromic lenses are able to respond to ultraviolet radiation by changing the amount of light transmitted. They are used in so-called chameleon glasses, which darken in the sun, and in the absence of sunlight their lenses become transparent. There are sun lenses that combine both polarizing and photochromic properties.

When choosing sunglasses with photochromic lenses, consider darkening speed and lightening speed, as well as temperature sensitivity.

By the way, photochromic agents– special substances used in the production of such lenses are more active at low temperatures. That is, in the heat, the darkening of photochromic lenses is less, and the eyes are less protected by them.

Over time, the photochromic agents in the lenses may wear out and the lens darkening will weaken. Therefore, such glasses must be regularly replaced with new ones.

How to choose glasses?

1. Decide in advance what you need sunglasses for.
2. If you have vision problems or eye diseases, be sure to consult an ophthalmologist before choosing sunglasses.
3. Do not buy sunglasses from stalls and markets. Quality glasses don't have to be expensive. Choose from those sold in stores, such as travel stores, that have clear labeling and inserts.
4. Carefully study the labeling of the glasses - it indicates how much ultraviolet rays the lenses of the glasses transmit, whether they are able to adapt to the brightness of the light or remove glare.
5. If you drive a car or often go out into the sun and back, buy glasses with photochromic lenses. To relax in the snowy mountains, it is better to purchase glasses with polarized lenses.