The polarized lenses are a lens technology that blocks the glare created by the reflected sun rays from various smooth surfaces, such as the sea, the beach, the cars, the house windows, etc.
In order to better understand the polarized lenses, we will firstly mention the mechanism of the polarized light.
Sunlight is scattered in all directions and as it falls on smooth surfaces, it is reflected in different directions. The horizontal reflection of the sun rays is more uniform with more intense brightness and is called polarized light. This is what creates the so-called glare, which affects us when for example we are at the sea or drive a car and the asphalt shines.
The vertical reflected rays of sunlight are those that do not bother the eyes and as they coexist with the horizontal ones, we have the feeling of blur and reduced contrast.
The polarized lenses allow only the vertical rays of sunlight to pass through and block the horizontal ones.
There are generally two types of polarized lenses for use in sunglasses.
- The most common and most economical type of lens is one where a polarizing film is located between two lenses’ surfaces, glued together in order to protect the film. In the good-quality lenses, the percentage of the reflected light that is cut, reaches up to 99% and provides a relaxed, comfortable and clear vision, with increased contrast. These lenses do not have the ability to integrate prescription for eyeglasses.
- The most advanced forms of polarized lenses are those in the form of filter. Many branded companies use this technology and integrate it into monofocal or multifocal lenses of advanced technology, thus offering polarized eyeglasses’ solutions. These solutions are more expensive but also more effective, as they can eliminate 100% of the horizontal reflected sun rays.
At this point we should separate the function of polarized lenses from the absorption of ultraviolet radiation. The protection from harmful sun rays (mainly UV-A and UV-B) is achieved by the quality of the lenses’ material (thickness, color, optical properties). The function of polarized lenses is an additional advantage that helps and contributes to the high-quality and most relaxed clear vision, as we mentioned above.
Although polarized lenses provide improved vision, increased contrast and better color perception in driving, at sea, in sports and generally in conditions of increased sunshine, there are cases that cannot be used successfully, such as on liquid crystal displays (mobile phones, tablets, computer screens, ATMs, car screens).
At Vardavas Optics, we place special emphasis on the quality of polarized lenses and we collaborate with all branded companies in order to always offer you the best solution according to your needs.
