The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning to anyone wearing sunglasses during the current heatwave, advising that not all styles provide adequate protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The alert comes as the Met Office recorded a scorching 35.1°C at Kew Gardens on Tuesday, with more sunshine expected.
Check for UV Rating
In a post on social media platform X, UKHSA stated: "Looking good shouldn’t come at the expense of your eye health. Some sunglasses are designed purely for style, so if you want real protection, always check for a UV rating. You can usually find it on the inside arm or as a sticker on the lens." The agency emphasised that not all sunglasses offer UV protection and urged consumers to inspect the protection level before purchasing.
The NHS recommends choosing sunglasses with wraparound lenses or wide arms that carry the CE Mark and the British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013 E. Moorfields Private Eye Hospital warns that excessive sun exposure can cause irreversible damage to eyesight, potentially leading to blindness.
Expert Advice
Mr Raj Das-Bhaumik, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Moorfields, said: "It’s extremely important to protect your eyes in the sun to reduce the risk of developing cataracts and a common type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma. You should buy sunglasses from a reputable retailer and check that they carry the CE mark to ensure that they will protect your eyes from harmful UV rays."
Sun Safety Tips
Alongside eye protection, the NHS stresses the importance of general sun safety. Sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer, and it can occur even on cloudy days in the UK. There is no safe or healthy way to get a tan. The NHS advises:
- Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- Never burn
- Cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses
- Take extra care with children
- Keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight
- Use at least factor 30 sunscreen, ensuring enough is applied and reapplied frequently
The guidance notes that the sun protection factor (SPF) measures protection against ultraviolet B radiation (UVB). SPFs range from 2 to 50+, with 50+ offering the strongest UVB protection.
