UV Rays: It’s more than meets the eye

As we all know, British summertime comes with unpredictable weather changes. One moment it’s sunny and we’re outdoors soaking up the sun, and the next moment we’re pulling jumpers out of our winter wardrobe. Whatever the weather, there is one accessory that everyone needs. Come rain or shine, you’ll always need a trusty pair of sunglasses. Sunglasses not only offer style, but they provide essential protection for your eyes against nature’s elements.

Summertime is when sunglasses transform from accessories that live on the top of your head to essential tools that sit across your nose. As stylish as you may look, it isn’t all about aesthetics. It’s about protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays that are present even on cloudy days. Even if you’re in the shade, these rays bounce off surfaces and find their way to you.

When people think of sun protection, the first thing that springs to mind is their skin. However, our eyes are also sensitive to UV radiation. Squinting, and struggling to see from the harsh brightness can significantly affect your eye health. This is due to UVA and UVB rays. UV radiation can be as high as 70 to 75% on the ground due to reflection and dispersion. Water, for instance, reflects up to 20% of UV radiation, fresh snow roughly 88%, sand up to 25%, and a concrete road around 12%.

The earlier you start protecting your eyes, the better – but it’s never too late to start! Children’s eyes are particularly sensitive to UV rays. By the time we turn 20, we’ve already been exposed to around half the amount of UV radiation a 60-year-old has experienced. Without protection, we risk damaging our eyelids and the skin around our eyes, or even developing diseases like conjunctivitis and photokeratitis. Continuous intense light exposure can cloud the eye’s lens, leading to premature cataracts, and UV radiation is also suspected of causing tumours on the eyelid.

We understand that choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses is more than just about how they look. It’s about practicality and suitability in your daily life. We consider your unique face shape, skin tone, features, and personality to curate a selection of frames that reflect who you are at your core. But beyond mere functionality, your sunglasses should be an extension of your personality and style, allowing you to make a statement and express yourself to the world.

So go ahead, try on a few pairs, and let them speak to you. Because ultimately, it’s not just about finding sunglasses – it’s about discovering a piece of yourself in those frames and crafting your own unique style story with every choice you make.