If you are a sailor seeking to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the Sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, you have found the right place. One of the most effective and least expensive "sea shades" is manufactured by a company called SeaSpecs. SeaSpecs, which cost $49.95, come standard with polarized and impact-resistant lenses. These lenses provide 100% protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays and the face-hugging frames have a fully-integrated patented secure strap system, which keep the sea shades on your head while you are in the sea.
The best way for sailors to defend themselves from Ultraviolet rays is with proper apparel, which includes protective shades and hats that are imperative in shielding a sailor’s eyes. A hat can also guard the skin on the face, head and neck from the sun further preventing UV damage.
Most people have experienced the effects of Ultraviolet rays through the painful condition of sunburn. UV rays can quickly burn a sailor’s eyes, skin, and hair if these areas are not adequately safeguarded, or if exposure to the sun is extensive.
If a sailor does not employ effective safeguards, they may suffer eye damage caused by UV rays. Initially, overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause one to experience temporary blindness and blurred vision, however extreme exposure to UV rays can eventually lead to skin cancer. A health risk that unprotected sailors can fall victim to is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC),, the most common form of skin cancer, which can be destructive and disfiguring.
Sailors can utilize an effective measure of UV protection with a combination of polarized, UV-absorbing shades. Light reflected from smooth water is generally horizontally polarized. This means that, instead of light being scattered in all directions, reflected light generally travels in a more horizontally oriented direction. This creates an annoying and oftentimes dangerous intensity of light that we call glare.
In addition to protecting a sailor’s eyes from UV rays, wraparound shades also provide further protection by keeping water spray out of their eyes.
In summary, always wear protective shades and clothing while at or in the sea to shield yourself from the harsh UV rays of the sun.