The sun is life-giving and exposure to it is certainly beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. But there are some elements of it that we need to pay attention to.

As far as our eyes are concerned, invisible ultraviolet radiation (UV) as well as HEV radiation (blue light) can become harmful

UV radiation, depending on the wavelength, is divided into UVA, UVB and UVC. Of these, UVCs are the most difficult to reach us, as they are blocked by the ozone layer of the atmosphere. Of course, thinning this layer can also make these rays dangerous, especially as they carry very high energy.

UVB rays (280-315nm) are the ones that lead to the skin tanning, while overexposure leads to skin aging and cancer. For the eyes, these rays cause aging of the skin around them as well as external diseases (eg pterygium). Finally, excessive short-term exposure to UVB can lead to photokeratitis, a painful inflammation of the cornea with possible even temporary blindness.

UVA rays (315-400nm) penetrate the cornea, and their effect can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration.

Finally, HEV (High Energy Visible Radiaton) or “blue light” radiation penetrates deep into the eye and can cause retinal problems such as macular degeneration, especially in people who do not receive adequate vitamin C and antioxidants. On the other hand, it helps in the secretion of the hormone serotonin, useful for our positive mood, while visually it helps in color balance. Therefore, we do not block it from the eye, but manage it.

Visible radiation and its intensity may not be eminently harmful, but it is sometimes tiring. Therefore, sunglasses makes us feel more comfortable in bright light.

Reflections (reflections) from smooth surfaces such as the sea or cars are largely dealt with with polarizing lenses.