Why You Should Protect Your Eyes From UV Rays With Designer Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an essential summer accessory, especially when hitting the beach for that golden tan! However, it is crucial that you protect your eyes from the glare of the sun all year round. In my latest article, I will be looking at the dangers of UV rays and how to protect against them – carry on reading to find out more.
Even though sunglasses are considered a stylish accessory, many people choose to wear them even during cold and rainy days, and it is sometimes more than simply a fashion choice! Even though there is seemingly less sunshine between autumn and spring (traditionally colder and duller months of the year), there is still a huge risk of harmful UV hitting our eyes.
Additionally, it is stated that 90% of UV radiation can cut through clouds (so even the typically dull UK is hazardous).
In the following points, we will discover why designer sunglasses are so beneficial throughout the year and highlight the dangers of UV light across all four seasons.
The Dangers Times For Harmful UV Rays
The most significant danger period for UV exposure is between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is a substantial amount of time each day. However, these risks are not just apparent during the summer; the sun’s rays are equally perilous during the winter as well. As such, many people wear sunglasses all year long for extra protection from unwanted medical conditions.
Whether you opt for a pair of basic shades from your local high street store (although ASOS have a great selection!) or that inner fashionista demands you rock the latest popular Prada sunglasses (one of my favourite brands!), it will allow you to shield your vision from these harmful UV effects.
Reflected Light
Even though the vast population knows the dangers of looking into the sun directly, reflected light is equally treacherous (especially during the winter months). UV reflection can cause high risks thanks to its ability to bounce off various surfaces, including sand, sea, grass, concrete windows and snow (one of the key factors in why wearing sunglasses during snowfall is a huge benefit).
If you are unfortunate to be exposed to UV via reflection, you are at risk of these conditions –
Cataracts
Medical experts believe one in every five cataracts develops largely due to prolonged exposure to UV rays (or, even worse, if you already suffer from the condition). It is a huge risk to your sight, causing the lens within the eye to become cloudy, resulting in blurry vision or even blindness if not treated.
Australia is considered one of the highest-risk locations in the world, and the cost of cataract extraction each year is around $320 million.
Macular Degeneration
If your eyes are repeatedly exposed to prolonged blue light and short wavelength radiation throughout the eye (both during the summer and even the winter), it can cause macular degeneration.
This particular affliction manifests as damage to the retina (the sensor layer positioned at the back of your eye) and the macula (the layer responsible for regulating your central vision).
Pterygium
One of the more severe conditions is pterygium, which is when a wing of fleshy tissue begins to grow on the eye’s front surface. One of the main reasons it appears is because of light entering your eye (from the side closest to your ears) and reflected internally to a focal point on the opposite side. Once this tissue appears, it can become highly irritated and affect your vision as the growth becomes larger.
The condition is often referred to as ‘surfer’s eye’ as many beach-goers can succumb to it. As such, sunglasses that feature a wraparound style (such as Oakley or Ray-Ban) are popular brands to protect the sides of your eyes.
Ocular Melanoma
Occasionally, in very extreme cases, long-term exposure to UV light can cause ocular melanomas, which is cancer that affects your eyes and eyelids. After diagnosis, it is considered very hard to treat – another reason it is essential to keep your eyes protected from the sun with quality sunglasses.
Tips to protect your eyes throughout the year
In this final section, I will share a handful of tips when purchasing new sunglasses.
- Select sunglasses with excellent UV defence.
- Style is important, but ensure they meet your country’s sun protection standards.
- Polarised lenses help protect if you are a frequent visitor to the beach or heavy snow areas to counteract glare.
- Wraparound, classic and close-fitting styles offer better protection for your face shape from all angles.
- Wear sunglasses even in cloudy weather or winter (when the sun is visible).
- If you have poor eyesight, choose shades with polarised or tinted prescription lenses.
Summary
Now that you know the heavy risks of sun damage to your eyes all year round, it’s time to grab your favourite designer sunglasses and keep yourself well-protected!
What are your thoughts on my latest style/health-based article? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
