Polaroid lenses, also known as polarized lenses, are a type of optical lens commonly used in eyewear, including sunglasses, to reduce glare and improve visual comfort. In optometry, polarized lenses offer several benefits for individuals experiencing specific vision issues or those seeking enhanced visual performance in certain situations. Here are some key aspects of polaroid lenses in optometry:
2. Glare from reflecting surfaces is one problem that is only partially alleviated by
regular absorptive lenses.
Glare is commonly caused by reflections from water, snow, highways, and
metallic surfaces.
A normal absorptive lens reduces the intensity of light evenly, which also reduces
reflected glare.
Yet a normal absorptive lens leaves the glare at the same level relative to the
surroundings as it was before.
Light reflected from a smooth, nondiffusing surface is peculiar in that for the most
part it has been polarized through the reflection process.
3. How Polarizing Lenses Work
A light wave is not so restricted and is free to vibrate up and down, sideways, or
obliquely.
In other words, in their nonpolarized state, light waves vibrate perpendicular to the
direction in which the light is traveling, but with no particular degree orientation
The process of polarization, however, causes the vibration direction to be
restricted. Instead of vibrating in just any direction, polarized light will be
vibrating only in one plane
4.
5. When Should Polarizing Lenses Be Used?
1. To decrease driving fatigue and increase driving safety: Because much of the
light reflected from large pavement areas is polarized, those who do a lot of
daytime driving will benefit from polarizing lenses.
2. For fishing and for boating on the water: Reflected light from the surface of
water makes it hard to see below the surface. Wearing polarizing lenses not only
removes the discomfort of reflected glare, but makes it easier to see below the
surface.
3. For more visual comfort at the beach: Sand and water are both sources of
polarized glare. Polarizing lenses are especially helpful here.
6. 4. Bright, snowy days are not as blinding: Snow is highly reflective. It is also
polarizing. Those who are out working or driving in the snow will benefit from
using polarizing lenses.
5. To block UV radiation: Virtually all prescription polarizing lenses, both glass
and plastic, are made to block UV radiation. This is not a function of the
polarizing filter, but rather foresight on the part of the manufacturers.
6. Polarizing lenses are good sunglasses: Polarizing lenses should be considered
for ordinary sun lens wear.
7. It is helpful to explain how polarizing lenses work to a prospective buyer.
To demonstrate how polarizing lenses work with this method, hold one lens still,
then rotate the other lens back and forth 90 degrees. Watch objects viewed through
the lenses dim out completely, then brighten up as the lens is rotated back
