There’s something about Edmonton summers that make us want to soak up every ounce of sunlight—until we’re squinting behind the wheel or shielding our eyes at the lake.
At Millwoods Eye Clinic, we understand how harsh glare can disrupt your day. That’s why many of our patients rely on polarized sunglasses not just for comfort but for better clarity and safer vision. Our eye care team takes the time to help you choose sunglasses that fit your eye care needs—not just your face.
What Are Polarized Lenses?
Polarized lenses are sunglasses designed with a special filter that reduces glare from reflective surfaces, such as water, pavement, glass, or snow. They’re especially popular for driving, boating, fishing, or spending long hours outdoors.
Standard tinted sunglasses can make things darker, but they don’t always reduce glare. Polarized lenses, on the other hand, specifically target the type of light that bounces off horizontal surfaces—light that often causes squinting, eye strain, and poor visibility.
The Science Behind Polarized Lenses
Before choosing your next pair of polarized glasses, it's helpful to understand how they work. Here’s what’s going on when you slide on those lenses:
How Glare Works
Glare happens when sunlight hits a flat surface and reflects horizontally into your eyes. It creates a harsh, blinding effect that not only makes it harder to see but also leads to headaches and fatigue over time.
Polarization and Anti-Glare
Polarized lenses are made with a laminated filter that only allows vertical light to pass through. This blocks the horizontal rays that cause glare—without affecting color perception or overall brightness.
This type of filtering improves visual clarity. It reduces squinting and protects your eyes from long-term exposure to UV light. It’s particularly helpful on bright days, near water, or in high-glare environments, such as open roads or ski slopes.
How to Know if Polarized Lenses Are Right for You
Polarized lenses aren’t for everyone—but they can make a big difference depending on your lifestyle. Here’s how to tell if they’re a good fit:
- You drive frequently or for long distances. Polarized lenses cut down glare from the road and other vehicles, making driving safer and more comfortable.
- You spend a lot of time on or near water. If you enjoy boating, fishing, or lakeside picnics, polarization helps reduce the harsh glare from water surfaces.
- You’re sensitive to light. Some people are more prone to squinting or headaches in bright conditions. Polarized lenses ease that strain.
- You’re outdoors for work or hobbies. Whether you’re on a job site or playing sports, these lenses can make your visual environment much more manageable.
- You’ve had eye surgery or have certain eye conditions. If you’re recovering from cataract surgery or experiencing macular issues, your optometrist may recommend polarized lenses for added protection and comfort.
Not sure if they’re right for you? Our team at Millwoods Eye Clinic is always happy to walk you through your options and help you test different lenses.
See the Difference This Summer with Polarized Sunglasses in Edmonton
If glare is interfering with your summer plans, it might be time to upgrade your sunglasses. At Millwoods Eye Clinic, we offer many designer frames and prescription lenses. This helps you see clearly and comfortably, no matter the weather.
Whether you're gearing up for a road trip, planning weekends at the lake, or just want more comfortable vision outdoors, we’re here to help you find the right, UV-protective pair of sunglasses. Book your eye care appointment; your summer vision starts here.