In this article, we’re going to clarify some common mistakes that no sunglasses brand would tell you:
The darkness level of lenses does not directly affect their ability to filter ultraviolet (UV) rays
The light transmittance and UV-filtering capabilities are two separate characteristics.
Some lens materials inherently have the ability to block UV rays, even if the lenses are transparent. These lenses are often labeled as having 100% UV protection or UV400 protection, which means they can block more than 99% of UV rays.
On the other hand, dark-tinted lenses may reduce the amount of visible light entering, making the lenses appear darker in bright light conditions and reducing glare. However, this darkness does not necessarily indicate better UV-filtering capabilities.
When choosing sunglasses, it is essential to ensure they have adequate UV protection. The best option is to select sunglasses labeled as having 100% UV protection or UV400 protection, as this ensures your eyes are fully protected, regardless of the darkness level of the lenses.
There’s a solution to view LCD Screens with Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses and LCD screens share a common feature – the presence of a polarizing filter aimed at enhancing clarity, particularly in bright sunlight. However, an intriguing conflict arises when attempting to use these two technologies simultaneously.
Polarized sunglasses excel at allowing only vertically polarized light to pass through, effectively reducing glare. Conversely, LCD screens, such as those on phones or tablets, emit horizontally vibrating light while blocking vertical light. This misalignment results in a counteractive process where the lenses and screen work against each other, culminating in a darkened or blacked-out image for the viewer.
A Simple Solution for Screen Visibility
The remedy for this visual obstruction is surprisingly simple: rotate your tablet or phone screen by 90 degrees. This technique strategically aligns the polarizing filters on your screen, ensuring they block light waves traveling in the same direction as your polarized sunglasses. By doing so, you can effectively restore visibility and clarity.
While newer smartphone and computer screens often incorporate mechanisms to mitigate this issue, users of older models may still encounter darker screens when paired with polarized sunglasses. In scenarios where the screens cannot be rotated, such as on instrument panels, this challenge becomes more pronounced. Professionals like boaters and pilots, who rely on swiftly and accurately reading instrumentation for safety, are advised to refrain from wearing polarized sunglasses in these critical situations.
Beyond screens, polarized lenses may pose visibility challenges at gas stations and ATMs. To optimize clarity when engaging in tasks like filling your tank or withdrawing money, it's recommended to temporarily remove your sunglasses, allowing for unobstructed viewing of displays. Navigating the intersection of polarized eyewear and modern screen technology requires a nuanced approach, acknowledging both the benefits and potential hindrances in various contexts.