Shorter days and cooler weather can give us a false sense of security, especially when it comes to sun damage. Many people think they don't need to wear sunglasses in the fall and winter when there are fewer sunny days and the sun feels less intense. In reality, fall light can be much more damaging to our eyes than the summer sun.

The sun is closest to our field of vision during the fall and winter months because it is lower in the sky, closer to the horizon, and the path of UV rays to our eyes is more direct. Although the sun may not seem as intense as it does in the summer, UV rays and exposure levels are still high. Fortunately, a good pair of lenses can block the sun's rays before they reach your eyes. MRY has a variety of lenses to choose from, each offering complete UV protection.

 

Here are 5 reasons you should wear sunglasses in autumn:

  • UV Rays

Although the sun is lower in the sky during the fall months, UV rays are just as strong. In some cases, the colder months can present a double exposure to UV rays. Be sure to wear your sunglasses even on cloudy days, as up to 90 percent of UV rays can pass through clouds. In addition, outdoor objects such as concrete and snow can reflect large amounts of UV rays into your eyes. Exposing your eyes to the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to serious eye diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
  • Cooler Temperatures

Cold air and strong winds can irritate your eyes. The drop in temperature can also cause the oils in the tear film to thicken - affecting the balance of tears and their ability to adequately nourish and protect your eyes. Often, this causes redness, dryness and tearing of the eyes. Wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from cold air and reduce irritation.
  • Sun glare

 

The lower angle of the sun at this time of year can cause a lot of glare, especially when driving. The light reflected from smooth surfaces such as the metal of nearby cars can sometimes be so intense that it causes temporary blindness and makes driving dangerous. Light fall sunlight reflects more glare than summer sunlight. Sunlight reflects back from wet and cold environments, creating glare and doubling our exposure to harmful UV rays.

Fortunately, there are available lens alternatives that can handle medium and flat light as well as glare. Our sunglass lenses are especially popular at this time of year because they are polarized to block glare, but also provide enough light in low sun or shady conditions.

 

  • The Elements

The air becomes drier in the fall and the wind speeds up. Low humidity and strong winds can dehydrate the eye membranes and the skin around the delicate eye area. And fall winds can blow away dust, debris, and pollutants, which can irritate the delicate areas in and around the eyes. Don't let debris and dust get in the way of your vision this autumn, and wear sunglasses to protect yourself from the irritants and allergens that float in the fall air.

 

  • Bugs

 

Insects are still prevalent in the fall and are ready for them to get into unsuspecting eyes. The most common problem is a fly in your eye when you're out on your bike. That fly can make your eyes water and blink, reducing peripheral vision, depth perception, and traffic awareness - all things you really don't want to experience when you're riding a bike. Just like a car, your eyes need some form of shielding. If the sun has started to set and you just want a quick ride, you probably won't be wearing sunglasses. Clear lenses are your ticket to such a ride. They keep the bugs out of your eyes while still allowing you to see properly.

  • Nov 08, 2022
  • Category: Education
  • Comments: 0
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