Polarized vs. non-polarized: Which sunglasses may be better for the eyes?
People who spend a lot of time in the sun may want to protect their eyes from its harmful rays. Here’s what to know about these 2 types of sunglasses.
Whether people live in a warm- or cold-weather climate, the sun is always around. When it comes to protecting their eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, sunglasses can be essential.
But not all sunglasses are good at protecting the eyes. One key difference may lie in the type of lenses used: polarized versus non-polarized.
Understanding the distinction could help a person make an informed decision about which may be better for their eyes and specific needs. Learn more about how a person can do that below.
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The difference between polarized and non-polarized lenses
Polarized lenses can be designed with a special film to reduce glare that filters out certain types of horizontal light waves. Those waves can be responsible for glare from things like:
- Asphalt
- Snow
- Water
Blocking glare can improve a person’s vision and comfort in bright conditions. For example, polarized lenses could be particularly helpful to people who have had LASIK surgery.1
Non-polarized lenses don’t have the same type of film. They can provide basic ultraviolet (UV) protection, but may not reduce glare so well.
On the plus side, non-polarized lenses can be less expensive. They may be best for situations where glare isn’t a concern, like out in a grassy field.
How polarized sunglasses may affect outdoor vision
Polarized sunglasses can offer several benefits to wearers. These may be particularly good for outdoor activities where glare can be a factor. Here are some potential scenarios:
1. They may help with certain activities and sports. Polarized lenses can be especially beneficial for activities like skiing or sledding. The reflective nature of snow can create intense glare that may make it difficult to see clearly. Polarized sunglasses can help reduce this glare, enhancing visibility and safety during these activities.
2. They may reduce glare from reflective surfaces. Water, snow, sand and roads are all surfaces that may reflect sunlight and cause glare. Polarized lenses can reduce this glare, making it easier to see and navigate these environments. This could be particularly useful for activities like:
- Boating
- Driving
- Fishing
3. They may enhance contrast and reduce eye strain. In super bright conditions, polarized lenses can enhance contrast and reduce eye strain. (Contrast means being able to see the difference in brightness or color between objects.) By filtering out glare, they may allow the eyes to relax and focus more easily, which can help if a person is doing an outdoor activity for a long period.1
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When a person may want to use non-polarized lenses
While polarized lenses can have many benefits, there may be situations where non-polarized lenses are more suitable. Here’s one potential example:
Screen visibility. One of the main issues with polarized lenses is that they may affect the visibility of certain screens. Those could include screens found in:
- Cars, planes or other vehicles
- Smartphones, tablets or other electronic devices
The polarizing coating may make these screens appear dim or even blacked out, which could be problematic for activities like driving with an LED display. In such cases, non-polarized lenses may be a better choice.
How can a person use vision insurance for prescription sunglasses?
Sunglasses are not just be a cool fashion statement. They may help you see better in certain situations.
Use prescription sunglasses? A person may be able to use their vision benefits to get the best sunglass lenses for their needs.
UnitedHealthcare Vision plans may cover a portion of the cost of prescription sunglasses, depending on the specific plan. This can make it more affordable to opt for polarized lenses, which can be more expensive than non-polarized ones.
People may want to think about customization. With UnitedHealthcare Vision benefits, a person may personalize their sunglasses to suit their needs. This could include choosing:
- Type of lenses
- Frame style
- Any coatings or enhancements that may be required
Bottom line: Choosing between polarized and non-polarized sunglasses can depend on a person’s specific needs and situation. No matter what option a person chooses, they’ll be protecting their eye health — and looking great doing it.
Ordering new sunglasses online is easy with our virtual mirror. Skip the store and try them on for yourself.
Sources:
- Shady Debate: Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses Cleveland Clinic, February 2024.
