Expert explains why UV protection should come before fashion when buying new sunglasses and what to look for in new shades
Sunnier days are on their way! And with the government announcing that people will soon be able to socialise more outdoors and enjoy alfresco dining at restaurants – it’s a good time to start thinking about sunglasses.
When buying sunglasses, it’s vital to remember the health benefits of shaded lenses as well as finding the right style of frame.
Leading eye expert Dr Andy Hepworth from www.essilor.co.uk explains what to look for when choosing sunglasses – and warns why people could be jeopardising their eye health by choosing cheap sunnies that offer no protection.
“Shockingly, research shows that only 40 per cent of people cite protecting their eyes as a reason for wearing sunglasses, with a further 30 per cent of those questioned completely unaware of the damage that UV rays can do.
“But as well as being a popular fashion accessory, sunglasses are designed to protect eyes from over exposure to UV light that can lead to premature ageing, plus serious eye health issues such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Excessive UV exposure also has been linked to corneal sunburn and retinal tissue damage. It can also cause eye strain and headaches.
“Your eyes have a natural filter, crested by the cornea and crystalline lens. This filter absorbs UV light to protect the retina. However, it is wearing the right sunglasses that will block UV rays from reaching your eyes in the first place, helping to prevent any potential damage to your cornea and crystalline lens.
“For optimum eye health you should be wearing sunglasses all year round”, adds Dr Hepworth, “but with the longer brighter days on the horizon and more time allowed outside, now is the perfect time to check that your existing pair of sunglasses have the correct level of protection and perhaps ditch those that don’t – treating yourself to products that will offer long term eye health benefits.”
How to check the UV levels of sunglasses
The easiest way is check the label on your sunglasses, if buying new, or if you still have the box and paperwork.
You can also take your sunglasses to an eye care professional and opticians who can measure the UV filters using specialist equipment. Scratched lenses may not be offering full protection as light may be filtering through.
There are some simple checks that can be carried out at home with a UV flashlight.
Not all sunglasses are created equal
“When it comes to buying a new pair of sunglasses you may think you are spoilt for choice, with clothing retailers, supermarkets, luxury brands, instagrammers, online shops, sunglasses specialists, opticians and many more offering you the latest styles and frames. But the first thing to remember is that not all sunglasses are created equal and they should always be so much more than a style statement.
“Only buy glasses that show the UV protection, which will be indicated on the label or shown on the product description. The minimum should ideally be UV 400 protection, which blocks nearly 100% of the sun’s harmful ultra violet rays, with both UVA and UVB protection. Just don’t assume all cheap sunglasses provide this level of protection, even if a sticker on the lenses says, ‘blocks UV’.
“As well as UV protected it’s also important that that you can see clearly whilst wearing sunglasses. You can also select different types of lenses that are right for your specific visual needs.
“If you’re buying new sunglasses, the best place to start is at your opticians. If you haven’t had an eye test in the past 12 months then first and foremost you should get your eyes tested as you may benefit from prescription sunglass lenses or specialist coatings or lenses. Your optician can advise what other specialist lens types will suit your eyes. Larger frames or those that wrap around the eye will generally provide better protection – even from the sides.”
Reduce glare with polarised lenses
“Sunlight can create glare which is caused when the sun’s rays bounce of flat surfaces such as a road. This which can be distracting and dangerous – especially if you’re driving. It can also create issues for people who suffer from light sensitivity, also known as photophobia.
“If you find that glare is an issue for you then you should consider polarised lenses. The technology behind these lenses can counteract glare from the sun reflecting off horizontal surfaces. Xperio Polarised technology only allows vertical light through the lens – making it safer driving and providing a high level of UV protection.
Maintain clarity, contrast and colour perception with tinted lenses
“The latest in tinted lens technology means that your sunglasses can be stylish and effective without compromising on clarity, colour and contrast. For example, Essicolour Tints have been created in collaboration with the Natural History Museum in Paris using the colour rendering index range to respect natural colour balance. These lenses will reduce distortion to give the very best clarity, whilst muting brightness from the sun. You can even opt to have a graduated tint making for a trend-led finish, with a dark tint at the top that gets increasingly lighter towards the bottom portion of the lens. Mirrored finishes are also available.
“Remember just because lenses are ‘dark’ in colour it doesn’t automatically mean they offer the right protection.”
Consider photochromic lenses for the ultimate convenience
“Photochromic lenses, also known as light adaptive lenses, are hugely convenient – they automatically adapt to changing light conditions, meaning that you don’t have to swop between glasses and sunglasses as you move between indoor and outdoor spaces.
“When these lenses are exposed to UV light, the molecules in the lens change and cause it to darken – this works even on overcast days and ensures you’re receiving optimal UV protection in all conditions. Most photochromic lenses typically won’t darken in the car as windshields block most UV light but there are some specialist lenses available that will work from behind a windshield so make sure that you look into all options available.
“If you think that these kind of lenses are for older generations then stop right there. Light intelligent lenses have come a long way in recent years with mirrored lenses and light tints available for those who are looking to put a more fashion conscious twist on this leading technology.”
Dr Hepworth adds:
“Whether you choose to opt for a specialist pair of lenses or not, it is not always the ‘price’ that indicates the quality and UV protection. Some lower cost sunglasses can offer the right UV protection. All sunglasses sold in the UK should have a CE mark on them to indicate that they comply with regulatory standards, blocking out 95% of all UV rays below 380 nanometres.
“Ultimately your eyes are extremely valuable and some damage can be irreversible so your opticians is always the best place to start when it comes to buying your next pair of shades. All opticians are operating within strict social distancing measures and will offer a wide range of frames and lenses to suit all budgets. You could even enquire about adding specialist lenses into an existing pair of frames.”
Dr Hepworth is an optical specialist for www.Essilor.co.uk