International Sunglasses Day

How & Why You Need to Protect Your Eyes - NRG Gym Advice

It’s time to not only look cool, but also let people know you’re more than just a pretty face… on International Sunglasses Day 2018 on 27th June.

Not only do shades stop you squinting in bright sunlight, and not only can they look cool – but years of research has shown that people who don’t wear sunglasses could be seriously damaging their eyes because of the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.

To promote International Sunglasses Day 2018, the Vision Council – an association for optical industry manufacturers & suppliers – is encouraging groups and individuals to take sunglass selfies. These photos can then be shared on social media with the hashtags #SunglassSelfie and #NationalSunglassesDay.

Here are some facts on why and how you need to protect your eyes:

  • Early signs of sun-related eye damage are often unnoticeable. They can only be discovered during a thorough eye examination. A common early sign of damage is eye dryness.
  • Reflected sunlight from sand, concrete, snow and water, and light from sunbeds, is especially dangerous. Not wearing sunglasses in these places can cause a temporary burn to the eye’s surface, a bit like sunburn.
  • Your eyes need protection from the sun all year round – even on cloudy days.
  • Ensure you have a pair of sunglasses with the CE mark that also says “UV400” (for 100 per cent UV protection). Wraparound frames give the best protection.

So look sharp, stay cool, and keep your eyes shining brightly!