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What Should I Consider When Buying Sunglasses?

Garry Crystal
Garry Crystal

Sunglasses are seen by many as the ultimate fashion accessory. For some, what type of sunglasses they are wearing is a statement about themselves. Nevertheless, when choosing sunglasses either for lounging by the pool or for work, there are a few factors to consider.

One of the most important factors when choosing sunglasses is the eyes themselves. You may already wear glasses for sight problems or for reading. You can purchase sunglasses from opticians with prescriptive lenses. These work just as well as your normal glasses, but have a tint that reacts with light. Many opticians offer special deals whereby you can receive a free pair of prescriptive sunglasses when you buy normal glasses.

A pair of polarized sunglasses.
A pair of polarized sunglasses.

Another important factor to consider is the amount of protection your sunglasses will offer. Many glasses state that they provide maximum ultraviolet (UV) protection. This is a very important safety aspect. Sunlight can seriously damage the eyes, and many cheaper glasses do not give enough protection from the sun. Sunglasses purchased from opticians usually have the required safety features.

Sunlight has harmful rays that some cheaper sunglasses don't block out.
Sunlight has harmful rays that some cheaper sunglasses don't block out.

The next factor is choosing the design. There are literally thousands of different types of frames available. It is important to choose a frame that will suit your face. Try on many different types before buying. If you have a long face, then you are probably suited to larger glasses, and smaller faces look better with smaller square frames.

The color of the frames is also important. Choose a color that compliments your natural skin tone and hair color. The frames can drastically alter the shape and look of a face, so make sure you choose the correct type. Take a friend with you when choosing; he or she will be able tell you whether you look good in the glasses or not.

Face shapes may help determine sunglass styles.
Face shapes may help determine sunglass styles.

The budget you have to spend on sunglasses should also be a factor when choosing a pair. Price ranges vary, and you should weigh up whether you will be wearing the glasses enough to warrant spending a large amount. There are many designer glasses to choose from with equally designer price tags. There are also quality manufacturers of sunglasses who specialise only in this product. With these types of manufacturers, you know that their expertise in the product is second to none.

Many sunglasses provide maximum UV protection.
Many sunglasses provide maximum UV protection.

Remember, just because a pair of sunglasses is expensive does not mean you are getting a high quality product. Designer sunglasses may look good, but may not have the required safety features. If you are looking for good quality sunglasses at reasonable prices, try shopping online. There are plenty of websites and bidding sites where you can buy high price glasses at a fraction of the usual cost.

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    • A pair of polarized sunglasses.
      By: Ljupco Smokovski
      A pair of polarized sunglasses.
    • Sunlight has harmful rays that some cheaper sunglasses don't block out.
      By: miiko
      Sunlight has harmful rays that some cheaper sunglasses don't block out.
    • Face shapes may help determine sunglass styles.
      By: javiindy
      Face shapes may help determine sunglass styles.
    • Many sunglasses provide maximum UV protection.
      By: Liv Friis-larsen
      Many sunglasses provide maximum UV protection.