IT'S not just our skin that we need to think about protecting in the warm weather. During the summer, our eyes are especially vulnerable to harmful UV light. Here are some tips for getting your eyes summer-ready:
1. Start wearing the right sunglasses from a young age
"Up to 80 per cent of a person's lifetime exposure to UV will occur before the age of 18, according to a study by the World Health Organisation, and with UVA sun rays causing premature ageing and age-related illnesses, it is important to protect your eyes from an early age," says Dan McGhee of Vision Express.
"Young people's eyes are more sensitive to UV absorption and under-12s are particularly susceptible, because the clear lenses in their eyes are not yet properly formed."
2. Have regular eye examinations
"The best way to start protecting your eyes is by having regular eye tests at the optician. These will highlight any sight problems or damage, such as cataracts, macular degeneration or skin cancer around the eye area, and can determine other health issues, such as high cholesterol and even diabetes."
3. Wear sunglasses even when it's cloudy
"Make sure you wear sunglasses while outdoors at all times, even if your eyes feel fine, as some of the effects of too much light can be delayed, just as in sunburn. Prolonged sun exposure has been directly linked to cataract formation and pterygium (a pinkish, triangular tissue growth on the cornea of the eye) and are seen more commonly on people who spend a lot of time outdoors and in hot climates."
4. Consider polarised shades
"Polarised lenses offer the best protection from the sun, blocking indirect glare and reducing the need to squint, which can cause muscle fatigue, headaches and eye strain. No longer just a sports essential, coloured lenses are now a big fashion win with celebs – so you won't look out of place on the beach."
