As the Melbourne weather starts to warm up, many of us find ourselves enjoying more outdoor activities. While we all know the importance of protecting our skin from the sun’s harsh glare, we often overlook the impact ultraviolet (UV) rays have on our eyes.
UV rays are invisible but they can cause significant damage to the external and internal structures of the eye. In fact, it has been estimated that around 20% of cataracts and almost 50% of pterygium (tissue growth on the cornea) treated every year in Australia are the direct result of sun damage.
Damage to our eyes can occur directly from the sun but also from indirect exposure, like reflections from the water, windows, or even buildings.
While a brimmed hat helps block out some of the sun, good quality sunglasses are the most effective way to protect your eyes from both direct and indirect UV rays.
Peter Merrett has been helping his customers choose the right type of sunglasses for their eye health and lifestyle since 2002.
Luckily you can stay protected while also looking good at Peter Merrett’s. Our store has a great range of designer sunglasses to suit everyone’s taste, budget, personality and lifestyle. Classic or contemporary silhouettes, all these frames can accept prescription lenses.
A new delivery of the fashionable IC Berlin sunglasses are arriving in early November.
It’s important to know that not all sunglasses are created equal. Be wary of sunglasses you see on the racks at service stations and department stores. Look for a lens category of at least 2 or preferably 3 and forget about those with a 0 or 1 on the label. And remember, a dark tint doesn’t always mean they protect you from UV rays!
There’s a lot of choice for consumers when it comes to prescription sunglasses - from polarised to transitions to photochromic - so it’s worthwhile receiving guidance from an experienced Melbourne optometrist to choose a frame you love.
Build a relationship with your local optometrist
Your long term eye health is about more than just getting an eye test and the right prescription sunnies for a Melbourne summer. Of course, that’s a good start!
Just like any other part of your body, your eye health changes as you get older. Having someone who has a complete history of your eyes is a great approach. It's also a good idea to continue seeing the same optometrist who can provide an understanding of your eyes over time.
If you’d like to learn more about the best sunglasses for protecting your eyes, you can drop into our Chapel St store in Windsor or make an Appointment Online. It’s the perfect location for anyone who lives in St. Kilda East, Prahran, Armadale, Toorak or South Yarra.