Summer may be a time to look at life through rose-colored glasses, but just make sure the glasses have enough UV protection.

''We tend to be in the sun longer and sun exposure over the summer tends to be greater,'' says Dr. Tim Murray, professor of ophthalmology at the University of Miami's Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. ``There's a higher ultraviolet exposure both in terms of the intensity and the duration of exposure.''

Both types of ultraviolet radiation -- UVA and UVB -- can damage various parts of the eye, Murray said. This can cause cataracts and an increased risk of macular degeneration, a condition affecting a part of the retina that gets concentrated light exposure and deals with fine visual activities like reading and distance driving, he said.

Macular degeneration is also hereditary and is more prevalent as we age, Murray says, so a clear link between the sun and the condition has not yet been established. Still, he said, researchers are looking at whether extreme sun exposure may cause an earlier onset of the condition.

Extreme UV exposure can also cause growths on and around the eyes, and an increased risk of cancer in the tissues around the eye and the eye itself, he said.

But with so many choices of sunglasses, how do you choose the right pair?

The American Optometric Association recommends those that absorb at least 99 percent of UV rays, a number verified by the FDA that can be found on the labels attached to sunglasses.

Murray also suggests getting a professional fitting at an optical shop. ''You want the frame to fit you well, not slide down your nose,'' he said.

At many places, fitting may be included with the purchase of the glasses, so it may not cost a dime.

For those who spend extended periods of time outdoors, the American Optometric Association recommends wearing wrap-around sunglasses that cover the temple area, as light can enter the eyes from the sides of the face.

Dr. Judi Schaffer, a Fort Lauderdale optometrist, often recommends polarized sunglasses to her patients because they are the best for blocking out harmful rays. ''Polarized is like the Mercedes-Benz of sunglasses,'' she said.

Murray recommends polarized lenses mostly for those who spend time in boats or doing water activities, and says they're not necessary for routine activities.

As for lenses, any color will do for UV protection, though when it comes to seeing colors, some lens choices may make a difference. Schaffer recommends gray lenses because they help a user see more true colors than other colored lenses.

For those who wear prescription glasses, getting prescription sunglasses, clip-on sunglasses and Transitions lenses are also options.

And make sure you don't forget the kids.

''It's easy for us to forget how important sun protection is for our children because they're outside playing for long periods of time during summer vacation,'' Murray said.

Damage to the eye is cumulative, he said, thus reinforcing the importance of wearing sunglasses early in life.

Taking care of the eyes is simple and most of it is common sense, Murray said, but the key is sticking to it.

''Get a pair of sunglasses that you like,'' he said. ``That's the key. Then you're going to wear them.''

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