When you think of preparing for winter we think of hats, scarves, gloves and a big wooly jumper. But very few people realise that sunglasses are as important in the winter as they are in the summer.
We recommend you keep your sunglasses out in the winter just as much as in the winter and here’s why:
The Sun’s Rays
The suns rays are just as strong in the winter as they are in the summer, we just don’t feel the heat as much. Ultra Violet (UV) are just as present in the winter months and can damage your cornea, eye lens and other parts of your eyes. UV rays from sun exposure can be a great contributing factor the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. It’s worth protecting yourself.
The Sun Sits Lower
The sun sits lower during the winter months which leads to more direct exposure to harmful UV radiation. Your sunglasses can help you see more clearly on those sunny days in winter give you better vision when driving.
Protects You From Dry Eyes
Cold winds and snow are more harmful to your eyes than you might think. Wind and snow causes the moisture in your eyes to dry up causing your eyes to suffer from dry eyes. This common condition causes irritation, red, sore and gritty eyes which can be painful. You’re much less likely to suffer from dry eyes by wearing a good pair of sunglasses for protection making your eyes feel more comfortable.
Our Top Winter Protection Tips:
- When purchasing sunglasses, remember to check the sun protection factor. Choose a pair that has a high protection factor. A large amount of damage to the eye comes from indirect light which can be either from the side or reflection from the ground.
- Wear your UV protected sunglasses and a hat whenever you’re outside and the sun is shining.
- Choose a close fitting, wraparound pair or classic style with thick arms can help prevent glare and damaging rays from coming in the sides of sunglasses.
- Sunglasses are also available with tinted and polarised prescription lenses for those requiring glasses for clear vision. Choose a polarised lenses to help with reflected glare if you are out in the snow.
- Remember that kids and older members of the family need protection as well.
There are many options for sunglasses, you can have a separate pair of sunglasses with your prescription, you can have a Transition tint put into your current glasses that helps your glasses go dark when you’re outside, you can even have a polarised lens to help reduce the glare.
