Kids need sunglasses too!
Tuesday 23 June 2009
Toddlers need sunglasses too, say eye specialists.
The idea of a three year old sporting a pair of Gucci sunnies or Chanel bug shades à la Nicole Richie may seem ridiculous but it may well become a reality after the recent warning that we should be protecting toddlers’ eyes when out in bright weather.
According to the American Optometric Association, children’s eyes are at most risk from the sun’s rays due to the particularly thin lenses covering their tiny peepers.
This means that more of the damaging rays reach the most sensitive part of the eye and extensive exposure can lead to a variety of vision disorders.
As a general rule, it’s a good idea for children to be wearing sunglasses whenever they’re wearing sun cream say leading ophthalmologists.
However, don’t be fooled by all the bargain baskets while out shopping - and make sure you pick up a pair of sunglasses with the necessary protection before you assess their style credentials!
Bryan Magrath, chief executive of Vision Express, said: “It is more important to our kids’ eyes that their sunglasses have a high sun protection factor and we urge parents to avoid buying knockdown eyewear that may well increase the risks of sun damage to their children’s eyes.”
By Joanna Lewin