Sunglasses

The sun from a real source of life can develop into a dangerous enemy for our eyes, which due to the special function they perform, but also because of their anatomical position, are very exposed to its light.
The damage that the sun’s rays can cause to our eyes and vision is very serious.
UVA and UVB cause photochemical damage, resulting in cataracts, i.e. clouding of the crystalline lens.
Ultraviolet and violet radiation (blue radiation) of the visible light spectrum are responsible for macular degeneration.
The macula is the point on the retina where rays from the objects we look at are focused. This area receives more radiation than the rest of the retina, resulting in degeneration and gradual loss of central vision.
UVB is responsible for photokeratitis, ie. corneal burn and generally sun exposure without protective sunglasses, can cause eyelid skin cancer and melanoma.
Young children, especially infants and those of preschool age, are in greater need of protection because their ocular system allows a greater amount of radiation to pass inside the eye and up to the retina.

How can we protect ourselves from the harmful rays of the sun?

Of course with quality sunglasses!

Both the shape and colors of sunglasses lenses depend on fashion trends. Sunglasses beautify us, but above all they save us from disease and irreparable damage. It is safer to wear sunglasses with a frame that covers at least up to the eyebrows, thus protecting the very sensitive skin around the eyes.

Sunglasses should be purchased exclusively from optical stores because this ensures that the protection is absolute and they are certified by the European Union. The Optician is the most competent to give a scientific and responsible opinion on the choice of sunglasses.
Sunglasses should offer perfect protection.

Quality sunglasses sold in optical stores allow visible light to pass through and block 99% – 100% of UVA and UVB ultraviolet radiation.
According to recent research, maximum protection from the light is provided only by sunglasses with advanced technology lenses, that filter in addition to ultraviolet and violet radiation (blue radiation), which is more harmful to the eyes.

How do we choose the right sunglasses?

• Sunglasses should be selected based on our needs, daily activities, profession and hobbies. Lenses should have the appropriate shade and darkness.
• Sunglasses, however, for those who drive must meet the requirements for driving. Excessively dark lenses with light transmittance of less than 8% are considered unsuitable because they significantly limit the brightness and ability of the driver to distinguish clearly in cloudy weather, shade, tunnels and at dusk. This is because the radiation that reaches the driver’s seat is about 10% of that which falls on the windscreen of the car. Unsuitable for driving are the frames of sunglasses with wide arms as they limit the peripheral vision of the driver.

How necessary is the use of sunglasses by people who wear eyeglasses or contact lenses?

Sunglasses are equally essential for people who wear glasses. Corrective eyeglasses are also manufactured with lenses that ensure the exact same sun protection as simple sunglasses, whether they are myopia, presbyopia, or multifocal (for long and short distances).
Those who wear contact lens, even if their lenses have a UV filter, need to wear sunglasses to reduce bright light and protect the skin around the eyes.
Sunglasses must be worn all year round, as Greece has intense sunshine over 300 days a year.