More Than Just a Summer Accessory: The Health Benefits of Wearing Sunglasses

Sunglasses are more than just a fashionable accessory
What would a sunny day at the beach be without our beloved sunglasses? While many people associate sunglasses with summer holidays, these pieces are more than just a seasonal fashion accessory — they play an important role in protecting your eyes. That's why sunglasses are a helpful and essential eye-care companion all year round.
Reasons why you should wear sunglasses

Protection from Harmful UV Rays
UV (ultraviolet) rays can damage your eyes at any time of the year, not just in the summer. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation has been linked to serious eye conditions that can affect your vision.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), eye damage from UV exposure is cumulative and irreversible, making consistent protection essential. Even on cloudy days or in winter, UV rays can penetrate the atmosphere and harm your eyes, especially when reflected off surfaces like snow or water.
Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer Around the Eyes
The skin around your eyes is some of the thinnest and most sensitive on your body, and it's extra vulnerable to UV damage. Sunglasses with UV protection provide a physical shield against UV rays, helping to prevent skin cancer in this delicate area. Choose large frames for extra protection.

Minimising Glare and Enhancing Visual Comfort
Bright sunlight or reflected light from surfaces like roads or water can cause intense glare, leading to eye strain and discomfort. Polarised sunglasses, in particular, reduce the effects of glare, improving contrast and clarity. Try out polarised sunglasses specially designed for driving, sports or time spent by the water (such as Esprit - ET19691P 576 and ET19689P 505).
Relief from Dry Eyes
Wind, dust, and direct sunlight can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Sunglasses act as a barrier, reducing exposure to these irritants and helping to keep your eyes moist. This brings great relief to people with dry eye syndrome as well as those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

What to Look For in Protective Sunglasses
Not all sunglasses are created equal. Here's what to consider:
UV Protection: Ensure the label states 100% UVA/UVB protection or UV400.
Don’t Rely on Lens Colour: Dark or stylish lenses don't necessarily mean better protection. Always check the UV label.
Price Doesn’t Equal Protection: Affordable sunglasses can protect your eyes as well as designer models. Always check the UVA/UVB protection details, no matter what the price.
A simple investment in your wellbeing
Sunglasses are essential for more than just style — they are a vital tool in safeguarding your long-term eye health and overall comfort. Whether it’s sunny or cloudy, summer or winter, a good pair of UV-protective sunglasses is a smart and simple investment in your well-being.
Be inspired and find your perfect everyday sunnies at CHARMANT: CHARMANT Group is a Japanese eyewear manufacturer with over 60 years of expertise in the optical field. The company offers a wide variety of sunglasses from its licensed brands.

Sources
WHO, Radiation: Protecting against skin cancer, 16 July 2024, https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/radiation-protecting-against-skin-cancer
CDC, Sun Safety Facts, 1 July 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/sun-safety/index.html
Harvard Health Publishing, Polarized sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from harmful glare, 15 August 2024, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/polarized-sunglasses-protecting-your-eyes-from-harmful-glare
Harvard Health Publishing, A look at dry eye, 1 July 2023, https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/a-look-at-dry-eye
