Ultraviolet light (UV) is non-visible light that is quite harmful to the eyes.
Research has shown thatUV can cause damage to the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye), the cornea (the clear part of the front of the eye and the lens inside the eye.
Yellowish patches on the white of the eyes, known as pingueculae can be caused by exposure to UV. UV is also implicated in damage to the cornea. One of the big contributing factors to cataracts is UV radiation.
UV is always present - not just on sunny days. Most skin creams and make up products now contain UV blocks to prevent the signs of ageing. A lifetime of exposure to UV causes damage to the eyes, as well as the skin. It has been shown that nearly eighty per cent of the cumulative damage to UV light occurs by the age of eighteen!
How can we protect against this?
All spectacle lenses absorb UV light to some extent, but some are better than others. Lenses made from a material called polycarbonate or from Trivex are not only lighter, thinner, tougher and safer for children's eyes, but they also absorb all of the UV, helping to protect against the harmful effects of this radiation. You wouldn't let your child go in the car without a seat belt, or ride a bike without a helmet. The benefits of suntan lotion for the skin are now well known. The same protection can also be afforded the eyes. Look after children's eyes too!
Kids tend to be the most physically active members of the community, spending more of their lives outdoors than most adults. It makes sense to keep them safe.
They are also a good option for adult lenses too!
Having sunglasses and/or photochromic lenses (Transitions/Reactions/Reactolite) also helps to protect sensitive eyes from the dangerous UV.
