Sunglasses: why they are important!
When most people think about sun-related damage, they protect themselves from the damage the sun can do to their skin.
But the sun also damages your eyes!
Sunglasses protect your eyes from sun damage that could
- cause cataracts
- increase your risk of macula degeneration
- cause photokeratitis, which can cause blotchy vision or temporary blindness
Sun damage is greater when light is reflecting off water and car windshields. Sand and wind can irritate your eyes.
Sunglasses can protect your eyes from damage caused by the sun, but not all sunglasses are equally effective.
It doesn’t matter how dark they are, or the colour of the lenses, and price is not an indicator either. The most important thing is that your sunglasses block UVA and UVB rays and reduce glare.
You can check if your sunglasses are offering you protection.
- Polarised glasses offer protection from glare
Put on your sunglasses and rotate your phone while looking at the screen. If your phone turns completely black, your sunglasses are polarised.
- Larger frames protect from glare and UV rays
Sunglasses that wrap around the side of your face reduce sunlight reaching your eyes.
- Anti-glare coating on the back surface of the lens
This layer stops sun glare reflecting off the lens and into your eye. It’s a good idea if you are outside for long periods or sensitive to light. Usually only glasses ordered from an optometrist will have this protection.
- Prescription sunglasses provide clear protected vision
Your sunglasses can be created to suit you if you want to see clearly in the distance and up close without needing to change glasses.
- Cancer Council recommended
The Cancer Council recommends that your sunglasses are Category 3 or higher for maximum protection.
