What is the function of sunscreen and of UV protection on sunglasses?

When we think about stepping out into the sunshine, 'sunscreen' is often the first line of defense that comes to mind. Its primary function is akin to a shield, guarding our skin from the sun's powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Inside sunscreen, there are special ingredients, known as UV filters, that play a critical role. These include organic compounds like oxybenzone and avobenzone, which absorb UV radiation and convert it into a less damaging form of energy (heat), and mineral components such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which physically block and scatter UV rays.

The protective factor of sunscreen is measured by the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating, which indicates the level of protection against UVB rays specifically. It's essential to apply sunscreen properly and frequently, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain effective protection.

Ultraviolet radiation, a type of energy produced by the sun, has both beneficial and harmful aspects. In moderation, it helps our bodies produce vitamin D; however, overexposure can result in negative health implications. There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC.

UVA Rays

These rays penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB, leading to signs of aging and contributing to some forms of skin cancer.

UVB Rays

These are the main cause of sunburn and play a significant role in developing skin cancer.

UVC Rays

Fortunately, UVC rays are absorbed completely by the Earth's atmosphere and do not reach us. It's critical to understand these distinctions as they underscore the importance of using broad-spectrum sunscreen, which provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

The eyes are just as vulnerable to UV damage as the skin, making UV protection in sunglasses a significant health consideration. Quality sunglasses are equipped with lenses designed to filter out the majority of UVA and UVB rays. The effectiveness of UV protection offered by sunglasses is not necessarily linked to the darkness of the lenses but rather to the quality of the UV-blocking coatings applied to the lenses.

When selecting sunglasses, look for those marked with '100% UV protection' or 'UV400', which implies they can block light rays as small as 400 nanometers, covering all UVA and UVB rays. It's worth noting that prolonged UV exposure can lead to conditions such as cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens, and macular degeneration, which affects the central part of the retina and can lead to vision loss. Therefore, wearing UV-protective sunglasses is vital for preserving eye health, especially during extended periods outdoors under intense sunlight.