King's Pharmacy
Why You Need Prescription Sunglasses All Year Round
As it starts getting warmer, we know that you will be reaching for your sunglasses to shield you from the sun. However, healthline claims that you should wear sunglasses everyday, no matter what the season. Find out why eyecare in the sun is essential, and how you can get prescription sunglasses in Birmingham.
Why is it important to protect your eyes from the sun?
The sun gives off three types of UV rays. These are UVA, UVB and UVC; while UVC does not present a threat to your eye health, UVA and UVB can have both short and long term negative effects on your eyes. The NHS states that you should never look at the sun directly. This is especially true when a solar eclipse is occurring. Essentially, looking directly at the sun can cause irreversible damage to your eyesight, even causing blindness in some cases. Sunlight exposure can also be a risk factor for developing cataracts.
When should I wear sunglasses?
Even if it appears cloudy, it is important to protect your eyes and skin from the sun. This is because harmful UV rays can still be present, causing sunburn/ sun damage. It is important to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses on a daily basis.
How can I protect myself from the sun?
Sunglasses are the most efficient way to enjoy the sun, whilst protecting your eyes. This is because they offer protection from harmful ultraviolet radiation and glare. When looking for sunglasses, it is important to ensure that you look for lenses offering a safe level of protection against UV rays. According to The College of Optometrists, you should look for one of the following factors when buying sunglasses:
– The CE mark (European Conformity)
– British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1:2013
You should also make sure to use other sun protection methods, such as sunhats, alongside regularly applying SPF. You can find out more about sun safety, and how to prepare for travel, with our ultimate travel health checklist!
Is the tint of the lenses important?
Essentially, the answer is no. It is a common misconception that the darker the lens, the more protection it provides. However, the College of Optometrists states that you can choose from a range of tints to suit your needs. Moreover, they recommend wraparound sunglasses for those who are out in the sun for long periods of time.
What if I wear glasses but want to protect my eyes?
If your vision is impaired in any way, there are a number of solutions. These include wearing contact lenses, as well as having sunglasses made to fit your prescription.
Where can I get prescription sunglasses in Birmingham?
If you are looking to enjoy the sun whilst protecting your eyes, we are here to help. At King’s Opticians, we offer a range of stylish frames that can be fitted with your prescription lenses, providing 100% UVA and UVB protection. This means that you can feel both confident and protected, wearing brands such as Ray Bans and Swarovski without compromising your eye health.
If you are looking to filter out the glare of the sun, as well as the stress of finding the right sunglasses for you – visit King’s Opticians to start your summer holidays in style, with all the protection you need!
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