Good sunglasses 'do not have to cost hundreds'

Optometrist Matt Thoume says it is best to wear a combination of sun protection measures

A Guernsey optometrist is reminding islanders in Guernsey to check if their sunglasses protect their eyes from ultraviolet (UV) rays and to make sure they fit correctly.

Matt Thoume, optometrist at Specsavers, says, "you don't have to be spending hundreds and hundreds of pounds on a pair of sunglasses, as long as they've got those markings on them that say they're cutting out UV light".

He said it was important to wear a "combination" of sun protection measures, especially at a young age, as "even a small amount of UV exposure over time can increase risks of cataracts and macular degeneration".

"Wearing sunglasses and a brimmed hat can cut UV levels down into the eyes by about 98%."

Mr Thoume recommends looking for British and European standards on sunglasses to check for UV protection

To avoid sun damage, Public Health recommends:

• Covering up, wearing lightweight clothes during the spring and summer months

• Finding shade or staying out of the sun particularly between the hours of 11:00 am and 15:00

• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat

• Wear some suncream with a high SPF (skin protection factor)

• Wear sunglasses that have UV protection

To make sure sunglasses have UV protection, Mr Thoume recommends looking for British and European standards, which are marked on the glasses.

He said a good pair of sunglasses "doesn't have to cost the world and be a designer brand".

But he explained it is also important to make sure the glasses fit properly and are comfortable.