Protect Your Pupils!
Although the eye takes up less than two percent of the body’s surface area, it plays a vital role in allowing visible light into the body, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). These vital organs are protected from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays in a variety of ways such as the brow bridge, eyebrows and eyelashes, as well as the pupils’ ability to naturally contract in bright sunlight. This contraction regulates the light intensity by minimising the penetration of the sun’s rays into the eye, preventing over-exposure and safeguarding the eyes from the sun. However, this process of self-protection is usually accompanied by the discomfort of squinting and watering eyes, resulting in eye fatigue and reduced vision. Whilst our eyes are able to manage the light intensity they are not fully equipped to completely combat the effects of harsh glare and harmful UV ray exposure.
“Naturally, we reach for our shades to ensure eye comfort. But, sunglasses that don’t provide full UV ray protection can cause more damage,” says Martine Larroque, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa of Maui Jim® Sunglasses. “When you put on a pair of sunglasses, you shade your eyes and your pupils react by dilating. This allows more light and UV rays into the retina. This reaction, makes a pair of premium polarised sunglasses a must-have to maintain eye health and comfort’’
According to the US Vision Council, the most important factor in choosing sunglasses is effective UV protection, followed by suitability to daily activities, comfort and personal style. Protecting your eyesight is as simple as choosing a pair of premium polarised sunglasses. Look for a label, sticker or tag indicating UV protection before purchasing a pair of sunglasses. Maui Jim Sunglasses, for example, feature PolarizedPlus2® lens technology which eliminates 99.9% of harsh glare and blocks 100% of harmful UV rays, and carries the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation as an effective UV ray filter for the eyes and surrounding skin.
For more information please visit Mauijim.com or @OfficialMauiJim
