From 3rd – 9th May, The British Association of Dermatologists are running their Sun Awareness Week campaign. Sun Awareness Week is used to raise awareness about skin cancer and protecting yourself from the sun.
Exposure to the sun in moderation is healthy, as UVB radiation stimulates the production of vitamin D in the skin which is essential for keeping your bones strong and healthy. However, over exposure can cause damage to the skin and eyes.
People often do not realise that an overcast day can be just as dangerous as a summer’s day, as it is the UV that is harmful to our bodies, not the warmth of the sun. Most people understand the consequences of exposing the skin to UV, however very few recognise the concerns over your eye health.
Over exposure to UV can not only lead to photokeratitis – sunburn of the eye, but also the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. The best way to protect your eyes from UV is by wearing sunglasses that offer 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays.
We are often asked questions about sunglasses, and the protection they offer. Below you can find a selection of our most frequent questions and our advice.
- Are sunglasses are only for when it is sunny and hot?
NO. UV is always present, even on the most overcast days. UV levels vary depending on the height of the sun and other factors and levels can be checked using most weather apps on your phone. The sun can also be reflected off snow and ice, which can cause photokeratitis, or snow burn.
- Will my children need sunglasses?
YES. Children are at a higher risk from UV exposure due to spending more time outdoors. Most children are exposed to a lifetime’s worth of UV before they are 18 years old.
- Does the price of my sunglasses change the protection offered?
NO. The price of your sunglasses has no impact on the level of protection they offer. Sunglasses should state they offer 100% protection from UVA/UVB whatever their price may be.
- Will polarised lenses give me more protection?
NO. Most people who choose these lenses do so because it reduces glare making them incredibly useful when driving and taking part in outdoor actitvies.
- Does size matter?
YES. Obviously the size of your sunglasses will be personal preference, however the bigger the better as larger sunglasses offer more coverage for the eye and surrounding skin.
- Do the different coloured lenses offer different levels of protection?
NO. The coloured lenses are often a cosmetic preference and offer no different level of protection. A coloured lens if often chosen due to the contrast it offers compared to a grey lens.
Along with limiting your exposure to UV you can use the 5 S’s to keep yourself safe in the sun.
SLIP on a t-shirt
SLOP on SPF 30+ UVA suncream
SLAP on a broad rimmed hat
SLIDE on a pair of sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection
SHADE from the sun whenever possible.
For any more information about UV protection, speak to a member of our team today, or pop in and browse our sunglasses collection.
