Whether at home or on vacation: the right UV protection is not only important for the skin, but also for our eyes. Because the sun can be dangerous. Experts therefore advise sunglasses and reveal how to recognize good models with UV protection.
No clouds in the sky, it is hot: that we apply cream with sunscreen is a matter of course for most. After all, nobody wants to risk skin damage. But the intensive sun rays in summer can also be dangerous for the eyes. This is pointed out by the Eye Foundation. UV radiation can lead to diseases such as pterygium or melanoma of conjunctiva and gray star.
Sunglasses: How to recognize models with UV protection
However, damage can be avoided by protecting the eyes from the sun. Especially when the UV index increases over 3-a value that is often reached in the morning. And: “The further south, the higher the UV index in general,” said Professor Dr. med. Gerd Geerling, director of the University Eye Clinic Düsseldorf and media spokesman for the AUGE Foundation, in 2024 to the German press agency (dpa).
The wearing of sunglasses with CE sign is recommended. This can be seen that the sunglasses according to EU standards offer sufficient UV protection. Ideally, the glasses should shield the eyes from above and from the sides.
Optician Irk Halter advised in 2025 to the SWR to pay attention to the UV400 stamp. This shows that the glasses cover UV protection in the ultraviolet area. Some of the term “100 percent UV protection” is also used.
Sufficient sun protection doesn’t have to cost much. In a test from Marktcheck, a model also met the specified UV protection requirements for 1.50 euros. Here, however, protection often consists of a thin coating. “Coated glasses in which the UV protection is evaporated to the surface are not so durable. They are not so resistant to scratches, environmental situations, heat, etc.,” said the optician. Glasses with included UV protection are more stable and higher quality.
Protection particularly important in the mountains and by the sea
Special caution is required in vacation regions such as the sea or the mountains. The sun is strongly reflected there and the UV intensity increases additionally due to the altitude. In the mountains in particular, the UV radiation can increase by 15 to 20 percent per 1000 meters of altitude.
“Regardless of fashionable trends, rather large -scale models should also be reached, which shield the eyes at the top and on the side,” advised Professor Dr. med. Frank Holz 2024 compared to the dpa. He is the director of the University Eye Clinic Bonn and chairman of the Eye Foundation. Large sunglasses are particularly important at the typical holiday locations by the sea and in the mountains, where a lot of sunlight is reflected from the surrounding area.
Recognize good sunglasses-further purchase tips
Tips for buying sunglasses: When buying sunglasses, not only should the UV protection and fit should be observed, but also the breaking strength and the optical quality, especially if you do sporting activities. According to the foundation, models that represent the substrate in contrast and not splinter in the event of a fall are to be preferred, according to the foundation.
And: Especially in the sun -intensive lunch hours, it is recommended to stay in the shade or in closed rooms if possible in order to avoid intensive solar radiation.
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