Ahead of Sun Awareness Week from 1st to 7th May, Boots Optometrist Opinder Malhi, explains why it’s important to wear your sunglasses and what you should look out for when purchasing a new pair.
Sunglasses are the ultimate summer fashion accessory, but they are also essential to protect your eyes from UV light, not just in summer but all year round, and even when it’s cloudy.
To help Brits prepare for summer, Boots Opticians is offering 25% off sunglasses across prescription and non-prescription lenses from today the 26th April until 6thJune.
Boots Optometrist, Opinder Malhi, comments:
Why should we wear sunglasses?
“Our eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV damage compared to our skin and exposure to the sun’s UV rays at any time of the year can damage your eyes. So, it’s important that you wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect the eyes, even when it’s cloudy. Damage from UV light in the eyes can lead to issues such as cataracts or age-related macular degeneration.”
What level of UV protection do our eyes need?
“Sunglasses have varying levels of UV protection. At Boots Opticians, all of the sunglasses we offer meet the international standard. Don’t be fooled by dark or mirrored lenses as the shade does not mean sunglasses have a higher UV protection. Polarised lenses are a good option for driving and bright conditions as they also reduce glare on flat and shiny surfaces and can also help increase contrast, leaving you with comfortable, clear vision on sunny days, but they won’t offer extra UV protection.”
Does price matter when it comes to sunglasses?
“Good quality sunglasses at Boots Opticians are available at a variety of price points so that protective eyewear is accessible to all. With prices starting from £10 in Boots own-range all the way up to designer brands such as Jimmy Choo, Ray-Ban, Mulberry and Ted Baker, there are sunglasses available for all budgets.”