Did you know that you can get sunburn even on overcast days? Or that if you have blue eyes you need to take extra care in the sun? Many underestimate the level of protection necessary when outdoors. As we head into the final days of British summer, Vision Direct are helping to debunk seven of the most common myths about eye health. By dodging these myths, we can all do the best to protect ourselves from UV rays. Another good excuse to pop those sunnies on, Victoria Beckham-style at the drop of a hat!

Myth #1: In the UK, UV exposure is highest in the summer.

Reality: Regardless of the season, exposure is the same year round. So even in the depths of winter, it’s always a good shout to have a pair of sunnies in your bag ready to whip out!

Myth #2: UV damage to the eyes can be reversed.

Reality: Sun damage to the eyes is cumulative, meaning the lasting damage can slowly build up. Protect to prevent is the motto to live by.

Myth #3: You don’t need to worry about wearing sunglasses on a cloudy day.

Reality: UV rays can get through clouds and they only reduce the amount of UV by around 10 per cent. Overcast days can still leave you vulnerable to high levels of UV exposure so it’s important to wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.

Myth #4: Young people are just as vulnerable to UV as everyone else.

Reality: Children under the age of five years are most vulnerable to sunlight. This is because as you get older, the lens becomes more yellow and naturally absorbs more UV to protect the retina. Because the effects of UV are cumulative, exposure at a young age can result in problems later in life. This is why it’s important for children to wear sunglasses.

Myth #5: Darker tinted lenses will give you a higher level of UV protection.

Reality: We’re guilty of thinking this too but actually, the tint of the lens will have no effect on UV protection but will change the amount of light that goes into your eye.

Myth #6: Your eyes are just as sensitive to UV light as your skin.

Reality: It makes our eyes water just thinking about this but your eyes are, in fact, ten times more sensitive to UV light than your skin. Just as UV rays can burn your skin, they can also cause damage your eyes and your eyes are much more susceptible to damage than skin. Eek!

Myth #7: People with blue eyes have the same UV risk as everyone else.

Reality: People with blue eyes have less protective melanin pigment in their iris, making them more at risk to UV exposure and more susceptible to damage. All the Blue-eyed beauties out there, it’s time to invest in a good pair of shades. Another reason to shop… Yay!

We love these French Connection sunnies, but there are TONS of stylish options on www.visiondirect.co.uk where you can select your face shape and the lens shape to help narrow down your search.