Co-Founder Deep Dive: Labs Optics' UV Protection

Hi There,

We’re hitting the vernal equinox today in the Northern Hemisphere. That means every day we’ll have increasingly more sunlight... and with it, power from the sun’s rays. 

 
Solar panel data shows how time of year and latitude make a big difference in how much of the sun’s energy we receive. 

Proper sun protection is critical for minimizing UV exposure and preventing sunburns, premature aging and risk of melanoma. Sunscreen is a must for mitigating these issues, as well as wearing clothes that help block the UV spectrum (like our AeroZero°, Kinetic and Pace fabrics). But last year, we realized there was another step we could take to help protect our customers - and thus, Labs Optics Sunglasses were born.

 

====

UV Light: A Quick Refresher

You may remember your friendly ROY G BIV mnemonic for the color spectrum, but he has a dangerous little suffix... UV. Ultraviolet light is short-wavelength, high-energy light that vibrates at 290-400nm - a frequency with the ability to penetrate deeper into the body, causing considerable long-term damage to the body if not properly mitigated.

LABS OPTICS: Ocular UV Protection, Solved

With Labs Optics, our approach to UV protection uses Triacetate Cellulose (TAC) lenses with three crucial layers:

1. UV blocker: This layer absorbs the 280-400nm UV light and transforms it into lower-energy infrared rays. Our ANSI Z80.3 certification for Labs Optics ensures 100% UVA/UVB Protection. As an added benefit, this layer also achieves 85% visible light reduction, reducing the overall amount of energy hitting your eyes at any given moment.
2. Polarization: Much like slotted blinds, properly oriented polarization film prevents horizontally-oriented rays (like reflections off the road or a body of water on a sunny day).
3. Durable scratch resistance: A scratch resistant outer layer offers long-lasting protection and helps maintain optical clarity.

 

Fitting Frames

While the lenses are the true star of the show, we wanted to make sure the overall design would resonate (and slot into your existing workleisure wardrobe). As such, we chose premium materials and design techniques to ensure a solid and durable set of sunglasses: 

1. Cellulose acetate: Derived from wood pulp and offered in a beautiful blue tortoise matte finish for an elevated aesthetic (also available in Black).
2. Stainless steel lens rims + plated copper hinges: Enhanced durability and a nice pop of contrast.
3. Internal metal frame: While many sunglasses lack an internal frame, our design ensures strength and resilience through years of wear.
   
   

===

UV protection is critical when the sun's rays are much stronger, and in dry environments where there's less humidity to refract and absorb high-energy UV wavelengths. Sunscreen will always be a no-brainer, but as you shop for work and travel clothing this season, don’t forget to protect your eyes too!

 

Stay Curious,

Gihan

 

PS: Enjoyed this deep dive? Reply directly with any thoughts or questions - your feedback will help shape future emails!

You received this email from Ministry of Supply. If you would like to unsubscribe, click here.