Amid warnings about unsafe and illegal sunglasses sold online, it’s time to think of sunglasses less like an accessory and more like SPF for your eyeballs.
We know sunscreen is non-negotiable, but what about sun protection for your eyes?
As temperatures soar and we spend more time basking in the sun’s golden glow, it’s easy to grab the first pair of oversized shades you can find and call it a day.
But there’s more to sunglasses than their It-girl appeal.
A Which? investigation revealed that a third of the children’s sunglasses it bought from online marketplaces including Amazon and Temu failed to provide the eye protection from UV damage legally required in the UK.
This has understandably raised concerns, with many left wondering whether their favourite sunnies are actually protecting their eyes.
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Why do we need to protect our eyes from UV light?
Although you can’t see UV radiation from the sun, it can have both short- and long-term effects on our eyes. Non-profit organisation the Eyecare Trust states that eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV than skin.
The Trust says that in the UK, cumulative exposure to UV is one of the main causes of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts — the leading cause of sight loss, which affects one in three people aged over 65 years.
Other impacts of high UV exposure include photokeratitis (eye sunburn), pterygium and pinguecula (eye growths) and eyelid cancer.
The UV index (the strength of the sun) can be high at many times of the year. It’s worth remembering that it doesn’t have to be hot and the sky doesn’t have to be cloudless for UV levels to be high. Be sure to check the Met Office website for the latest UV forecast.
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What to look out for when shopping for sunglasses
Yes, we all love a statement frame, but wellness expert Star Freudenberg urges a more practical approach. “Prioritise protection over pretty. And if you can get both, that’s a bonus.”
Here’s what to look out for when shopping:
- UV protection: Look for a ‘UV400’ label, a guarantee that the sunglasses offer 100% UV protection, or a CE or UKCA mark
- A CE mark shows they meet all the legal health and safety requirements to be sold in the EU, while a UKCA mark shows they meet the requirements to be sold in the UK. These marks will be on the inside arms of the glasses.
- Polarised lenses: These reduce glare — ideal for driving, holidays, or sea gazing from a yacht (manifesting).
- Darker shades: Light-coloured eyes (green, blue) absorb more sun and need deeper tints — think black or dark brown. Dark-eyed folks can experiment with greens, reds and even violets, but the darker the shade, the better the UV protection.
- Size matters: Bigger lenses and wraparound styles offer more coverage — crucial for shielding the delicate skin around the eyes. Wraparound sunglasses offer the best protection.
- Build to last: “Pay extra for impact-resistant and scratch-resistant lenses,” says Star. “You’ll thank yourself in six months when they’re still in top shape.”
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How to take care of your sunglasses
You wouldn’t leave your favourite moisturiser on the dashboard of your car, so why do that with your sunglasses?
“Heat damages the protective coating,” warns Star. “Leaving them in the sun — like in the car — is one of the worst things you can do.”
Storage and cleaning are key. Here’s Star’s foolproof sunglass survival guide:
- Always use a case: Preferably hard-shell. “Too often, women toss them into handbags and men leave them by the front door — both hotspots for scratches.”
This is a great budget-friendly pick from New Look.
- Clean smart: No paper towels. No clothes. “Use lukewarm water, a little gentle soap and a microfibre cloth,” she advises.
- Avoid alcohol-based products unless they’re designed for eyewear. Star says disposable wipes like this one are a lifesaver.
- Don’t breathe and wipe: It’s tempting, but that can scratch lenses over time.
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When should you replace your sunglasses?
Unlike mascara, sunglasses don’t come with a set expiry date, but that doesn’t mean they’re forever.
“If the lenses are scratched, the frame’s warped, or the UV coating is compromised —it’s time,” says Star.
If you’re clumsy with your shades (guilty), you’ll want to replace them every two to three years. But there’s no shame in bringing your sunglasses into the opticians to get their opinion.
If you’re lucky enough to have a good optical insurance cover, treat yourself to a new pair more often.
L360’s UV-safe sunglasses top picks
New Look Brown Gradient Lens Wrap Sunglasses
Not only does the wraparound look very Y2K, it also offers more protection for your eyes.
This option from New Look is a strong budget option.
Guess Rectangular Sunglasses
Sleek and stylish, while offering excellent protection for all UV types. Guess recommends this model for oval, round, inverted triangle and heart face shapes.
M&S Collection Oversized Mask Sunglasses
Not only are these on trend, but the super oversized frame means more of your face is covered and thus UV protected.
These statement glasses truly elevate any outfit by adding instant interest.
Lilac & Faux Tortoiseshell Wide Arm Rectangular Sunglasses
Designed with an oversized lilac rectangular frame, these sunglasses have wide brown faux-tortoiseshell arms for a bold, retro touch that offers extra sun coverage.
The sunnies come with a fabric pouch, but we recommend purchasing a hardshell case.
Buy from Oliver Bonas for £26.
Van Rysel Perf 500 Light Sunglasses
Ideal for outdoor exercising, including running or cycling, these modern frames offer ultimate protection.
The lenses are made from high-resistance polycarbonate plastic, meaning they’re super robust and so are less likely to scratch.
Buy from Decathlon for £29.99.
Feature image: Canva
