As the summer approaches, it is time to prepare for sunny adventures. Part of preparing yourself is finding the right pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun. Even if you plan to only be in the sun for brief periods of time, it is important to wear sunglasses. Here are some tips to help you find the designer eyewear you need to get through the warmer months. 

Pay Attention to UV Protection

Designer eyewear is more than just a fashion accessory. It can provide protection to your eyes from ultraviolet rays, which can be harmful. UV rays can increase the likelihood that you will develop macular degeneration or cataracts. Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that eventually leads to blindness. 

To protect your eyes, you need eyewear that blocks out 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays. The lenses also need to block out at least 75 percent of visible light. 

Choose the Right Frame

Designer sunglasses that are not the right shape can actually distract from your appearance instead of complementing it. When searching for eyewear, remember to look for shapes that are opposite of your own face's shape. 

For instance, if you have a round face, look for a square frame. The square frame will help to add contouring to your face. The only exception to finding an opposite is if you have an oval face. Oval-shaped faces usually pair well with any frame shape. 

Factor in Your Planned Summer Activities

The color of your eyewear does not have a bearing on how well it protects your eyes from UV rays, but it can impact how well you see while doing certain activities. 

For instance, glasses that are tinted amber or gray provide contrast to visuals that can be useful if you plan to spend the summer playing sports, such as baseball. If you are going to spend time swimming or doing other water-related activities, polarized lenses are a solid choice. The lenses help to cut glare. 

Remember Heaviness Matters

If you are inclined to choose eyewear that is heavy or oversized, it is important that you keep in mind that this might not be the most comfortable option. As you wear the heavy eyewear, it can push down on pressure points that can trigger a headache. However, if you select a lighter frame, you can enjoy your eyewear longer and spend more time doing the activities that you love.