They seem intact, but they may no longer protect your eyes: experts sound the alarm on a danger that many ignore. Your sunglasses, even those that you have loved for years, may have lost their anti-UV filter, leaving you exposed to irreversible damage. According to a study by the University of São Paulo, daily exposure to intense light would be enough to make your glasses ineffective in just two years.
When should you change your sunglasses?
According to the manufacturer Beautynot only the years that matter. The stripes on the glasses, poor storage, or even leaving them in the sun in the car all participate in the deterioration of UV protection. On average, a quality pair can last from two to five years, but it largely depends on use.
Prolonged exposure to damaged glasses can cause a photokeratitis, a sunburn on the eye. Also, in the long term, cataracts and macular degeneration, warns the National Eye Institute. The danger is insidious, because the eyes do not perceive the failure of UV filters. We can therefore continue to wear glasses while exposed to the most harmful effects of the sun.
The signs that your glasses no longer protect your eyes
Some clues should alert you immediately:
- Your eyes seem more sensitive to light despite the tinted glasses;
- You feel unusual visual fatigue outside;
- The glasses are scratched, cracked or tarnished;
- You tend to fold your eyes even with the glasses.
Spectators Also recommends to be wary of glasses without mention of UV400 certification, often sold in fashion or online brands. The price or the brand does not guarantee real eye protection.
How to prolong their efficiency or replace them?
For those who hold their mount, it is sometimes possible to change only glasses, provided you consult an optician. Some high -end glasses offer interchangeable glasses, but the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed with rigor.
Experts also recommend some simple gestures:
- Store glasses in a rigid case;
- Clean them with a microfiber cloth;
- Avoid contact with hard surfaces on the lentil side;
- Never leave them in a car in full sun.
Finally, if you doubt the quality of your current pair, it is better to prevent than cure. Opting for certified and verified glasses in store remains the only guarantee of reliable protection.