According to the IRIS eye care professionals, the answer is unanimous: Yes!
Ultraviolet (UV) and blue light radiation from the sun increase the risk of age-related eye problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Studies show that the higher your exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays and blue light, the more likely you are to be exposed to these eye health conditions. Because children spend more time outdoors than most adults, they are more susceptible to UV damage. Also, a child's lens, the natural lens of the eye, is less able than an adult's to block UV rays so that these harmful rays can penetrate deeper into the eye.
By purchasing quality children's sunglasses, you are helping your child enjoy a lifetime of good vision. In addition to choosing sunglasses with lenses that block virtually 100% of the sun's UVA and UVB rays and a significant amount of blue light, the eye care professionals at IRIS recommend that kids' sunglasses also have the following features:
Impact-resistant lenses
The best lenses for children's sunglasses are made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate lenses are more impact resistant than standard plastic lenses to provide superior eye protection while playing. Polycarbonate lenses are also lighter than standard glass or plastic lenses, which improves comfort.
Safe, well-fitted frames
For the best protection from the sun's ultraviolet rays and to keep dust and other debris out of your child's eyes, a relatively large but snug-fitting frame is the best choice for kids' sunglasses.
Spring Hinges
Hinges extending to an angle exceeding 90 degrees and having a spring to hold the frame in place will reduce the risk of your child's sunglasses falling off or being damaged during sports and other activities.
Elastic strap
An elastic strap that attaches to the end of each frame arm can help prevent children's sunglasses from being lost or damaged.
For superior UV protection, it's also a good idea for kids to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when spending a lot of time outdoors on sunny days.
And don't forget the sunscreen!
To ensure your child's safety and find sunglasses that they will be happy to wear comfortably, consult our IRIS eye care professionals.
Make an appointment today!
