Sunglasses - prevention against eye damage

Sunglasses - essential prevention against eye damage

With our love of the outdoors, Kiwis often forget how important it is to protect our eyes from the harsh summer sun and glare.

From babies to adults, sunglasses should be worn by everyone of all ages. During summer New Zealanders spend a lot of time outdoors, at the beach, and on the water where there is increased reflection and glare.

The Cancer Society of New Zealand recommends the use of high quality sunglasses that are UV resistant*, and also states that children wear sunglasses around highly reflective surfaces such as water, sand and snow. OPSM offers a wide range of quality children’s sunglasses for babies, to children aged up to 10 years.

Eyes are as susceptible to sunburn as skin. Most people are aware of protecting their skin as they can feel it burning, but don’t consider the health of their eyes. By exposing the naked eye to excess sunlight and harmful UV rays, New Zealanders are increasing the risk of eye growths, impaired vision and performance.

"Excessive exposure to UV light can cause the premature formation of cataracts and in addition, surface conditions such as pingueculae or pterygia. These surface conditions manifest as yellowish red elevated growths on the white of the eye, while cataracts cause a reduction in transparency of the lens located within the eye," says Donald Klaassen, OPSM professional services manager.

Polarised lenses minimise surface or reflected glare, and are ideal for popular sports such as fishing, boating and snow sports.

Transition lenses are also a good option for New Zealanders on the go as they work as sunglasses outdoors, and clear glasses inside. Transition lenses block out 99.9% of UV radiation, as well as harsh artificial light and the glare from computer screens.

OPSM has a wide range of sunglasses available this summer – from fashionable brands Gucci and Guess, to the popular sport classics. In addition, a wide range of sunglasses at OPSM are available with prescription lenses, so there’s no forsaking style for accurate vision.

Metallic sunglasses in classic and mirror lenses are going to be big this summer, with natural and bronze tones remaining glamorous, and sun tints able to be fitted to most styles - which reduces the amount of light that reaches the eye.

This season’s range hosts styles designed to meet everyone’s style. Outdoor brands such as Adidas, Oakley and Bolle cater for sporty Kiwis.

Wrap-around styles provide almost complete protection and elimination of glare, which reduces squinting and damage to the delicate eye tissue area – perfect for outdoor Kiwi summer living.

OPSM stocks the widest range of styles and brands in sunglasses. For advice and a free fitting consultation contact your local OPSM store or call 0800 MY OPSM (0800 696 776), or visit www.opsm.co.nz.

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