Go to any park, beach, ski resort and you’ll see kids everywhere – but hardly any of them will be wearing the “proper” sunwear…. even though the reasons for wearing them are quite compelling. In fact, scientific studies indicate that kids need sun protection even more than adults do, and it’s been estimated that 80 % of our lifetime sun exposure occurs before the age of 18. Most importantly, UV protection is a year-round concern, as UV rays penetrate even on cloudy days. Consequently, damage from UV is proven to be cumulative over time- contributing to such things as cataracts, macular degeneration, ptergium, and other ocular concerns.
Parents are more than conscientious in using sunscreen to protect their childrens’ skin and the eyes are often overlooked. Parents need to check sunglass lenses to make sure lenses provide at least 99% UVA&UVB protection. Just as they are mindful to check the SPF of sunscreen they are putting on their childs’ skin, they need to check lens stickers for their childrens ‘ eyes. Be wary of sunglasses that say “block UV” or “provides UV protection” without specifying exactly what percentage of UV rays the product blocks. In addition, all eye care professionals recommend that children wear lenses that are polycarbonate, this must be on the lense sticker as well.
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