Shopping For Sunglasses In Tauranga? Check The UV Rating

Choosing sunglasses can be hardwork.

And it’s not only fashion you have to think about, because UV protection is important too.

What are UV Rays?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays occur when the sun breaks through our ozone layer to reach our little piece of paradise here in Tauranga.

UVA and UVB rays cause wrinkles, sunburn and skin cancer – but your eyes themselves are also vulnerable.

How does UV affect your vision?

UV radiation can damage your cornea, lens and other parts of your eye including your eyelid and surrounding skin.

UV exposure can cause:

• Cataracts (where your eye’s lens turns cloudy)
• Macular degeneration of the retina (the leading cause of blindness)
• Snow-blindness or photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea which happens when UV is reflected off water, sand or snow)
• Pterygium (a growth on the surface of the eye)

What should I look for when buying sunglasses?

1.Check the label

Always look for UV protection details. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100% of UVA and UVB rays or are rated EPF 10 (Eye Protection Factor rating 10). Also check if they comply with or exceed the requirements of the AS/NZS 1067:2003 standard. If there’s no information listed, don’t buy them.

2.Lens colour

Don’t be fooled into thinking a darker lens will block more UV light. The chemical coating added to the lens during manufacturing is what counts when it comes to UV absorption, so again, check the label.

3.Style

Wraparound or close-fitting sunglasses with wide lenses or side-panels are your best bet. These styles help protect your eyes from every angle. Wearing a hat with a wide brim will also help prevent UV rays from damaging your sight.

What about polarised lenses?

Polarised lens also follow the same UV rating system, but have the added bonus of cutting out reflection/glare and make vision easier on the water.

Looking for the help choosing your next sunglasses?

Call in and see us at Langford Callard in Tauranga or contact us.