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Celebrities wear them at night, some athletes wear them during the game and most people wear them during the day while going about normal business.

In recent years, sunglasses evolved into a fashion statement rather than eye protection, but they remain the easiest way to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays. People typically think of sunscreen and hats to protect our skin from sunburns, and don't give a second thought to the eyes. However, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, "prolonged exposure to the sun's invisible, high energy ultraviolet rays without protection may cause eye conditions that can lead to vision loss such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration."

Exposure to UV rays over a short period of time sunburns the eyes.

"It may be painful, and the symptoms would include red eyes, a gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme light sensitivity and excessive tearing," Dr. D. Wade Henderson of Henderson & Posegate Eye Center said.

These symptoms are usually temporary, and rarely cause permanent damage.

"Consumers are much more educated today on the importance of eye protection, UV rays and the potential damage that the sun's harmful rays can cause," Maui Jim Sunglasses marketing coordinator Dawn Klimaszewski said.

The American Optometric Associations, as well as the leading sunglass manufacturers, recommend that consumers wear sunglasses that block out 99- to 100-percent of UV rays.

Henderson said certain activities spending a great deal of time outdoors, using a tanning bed, skiing, mountain climbing or spending time at the beach place people at a higher risk for UV damage. He said he recommends wrap-around frames, which can provide additional protection, in addition to maintaining yearly eye examinations.

"(Eye examinations are) a good way to monitor your eye health, maintain good vision, and keep track of your UV radiation protection needs," Henderson said.

While, many consumers today realize the dangers of UV rays, style still tops protection on buyers' priority lists.

"Big is in," Sunglass Hut sales associate Kim Gragg said. "Glasses are a fashion statement just like purses or shoes. People have different sunglasses for different occasions."

Aviators provide another strong trend in the market today. Ray-Ban introduced this style in the late 1930's for airplane pilots. They gained popularity with the American public in 1960's. Since then they have swung in and out of fashion.

"They have come and gone through the years, but always seem to find their way back into the chain," Klimaszewski said.

While fashion dominates the consumer market, Gragg said most sunglasses are marked in some way indicating how much UV protection they offer.

As for the future of sunglasses and protection, consumers want the complete package. Research and customer feedback is constantly in motion, improving sunglass technology and customer needs.

"Consumers do not want to compromise function and protection for fashion," Klimaszewski said. "They want both."

Learn more about this author, Erica Green.
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