Out of necessity or to complete your look, we all wear them. Sunglasses are undeniably the key accessory of summer. Here are some tips to make the right choice and face the sun safely.
The first safety rules are to check that your lenses have 100% UV protection and the CE standard with an index of 1 to 4 indicating the level of protection. A CE2 index is suitable for the countryside, but if you are heading to high mountains, open sea, or under the tropical sun, choose a CE4 index. Moreover, since glare at sea or on snow is very strong, opt for a wrap-around shape to prevent UV rays from entering from the sides.
Children are particularly vulnerable. An infant’s eyes filter only 10% of UVA and 50% of UVB. Always protect your children! Additionally, contact lenses often have a UV filter offering some protection, but if the exposure is intense, sunglasses are necessary.
The sunglasses you buy should be accompanied by an information leaflet with the name and address of the manufacturer or an authorized representative established in an EU state.
Failing to protect yourself correctly exposes you to certain risks. Among them, repeated conjunctivitis, edema, or early cataracts. Ophthalmia is a burn of the cornea that causes red, watery, and stinging eyes. Beware!
Lens Colors
Dark lenses are not necessarily more protective. There are some color codes. For example, gray lenses restore color well and are ideal for driving. They suit those with hyperopia. For myopes, brown lenses improve contrast. Green lenses combat glare. Yellow lenses provide good visibility in fog or low light. Blue and violet lenses are very stylish and offer relative protection in moderate sunlight, but pink or red lenses are only suitable in low light.
Material
Surface treatments increase prices and are not always essential. However, it’s useful to know that mineral silica lenses are effective against scratches, while tempered lenses resist shocks. Organic (plastic) lenses are unbreakable and lightweight, making them particularly suitable for athletes and children. Polycarbonate lenses are also lightweight and resistant.
In any case, do not rely too much on the brand, as the price is not an assurance of good protection!
Style
The trends of 2011 lean towards retro style. Butterfly-style ’50s glasses are very fashionable, as are large formats. The colors favor black and bright tones.
However, to choose well, you must consider the shape of your face. A round face prefers square, geometric, or elongated glasses. Conversely, round or oval glasses suit a square face. The same goes for a triangular face: avoid butterfly shapes and opt for lighter frame shades. Finally, an oval face is ideal as everything suits it!
Another important point: make sure that the pair of glasses does not hide the eyebrow line.
Lastly, you can harmonize the color of the glasses with your hair. Cool tones complement gray hair, warm tones with brown and blond hair, and shades of red with red hair.
Now you are ready to enjoy the summer!
