
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, August 2, 1995                   TAG: 9508020013
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 1   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

GAUGE YOUR EXPOSURE TIME WHEN CHOOSING SHADES

How do you know which sunglasses are right for you? Fashion concerns aside, the most important factor is how much time you spend in the sun.

The American National Standards Institute is working on categories of sunglasses, based on ultraviolet-ray protection. They eventually will be adopted as minimal standards by sunglass manufacturers, says Carol Norbeck, an optician and spokeswoman for the Better Vision Institute.

The categories under consideration:

Cosmetic. They would absorb at least 20 percent of UV-A rays (the more powerful and potentially more dangerous ultraviolet rays) and 70 percent of UV-B (less powerful) rays. Recommended use: For short-term wear, such as taking a quick drive or walk or ``sitting at poolside for a looking-good session,'' says Norbeck.

General Purpose. They would absorb 60 percent of UV-A rays and 95 percent of UV-B rays. Recommended use: Most outdoor activities, when you're exposed for a longer period, such as skiing below tree lines or sunbathing for several hours.

Special Purpose. They would absorb 99 percent of UV-B rays and 60 percent of UV-A rays. Recommended use: Situations in which the ultimate protection is needed, such as skiing above tree lines or activities on the water or in areas with thinner ozone layers.

by CNB