Oh Baby!

Have you noticed that many stores are now carrying sunglasses for children? While it may seem frivolous, sunglasses are actually very important for everyone to wear including small children.


Children are quite vulnerable to UV (ultra-violet) rays that can damage eyesight. Just like sunscreen and hats, sunglasses are now recommended whenever your child is outside. Children tend to spend longer periods of time outside causing more exposure to the rays.


When choosing sunglasses, make sure that list protection against both UVA and UVB rays. So what�s the risk of not wearing sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection? Exposure over the years to UV rays increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other conditions of the eye.


Make sure sunglasses protect the entire area of the eye. Wrap-arounds protect both the eye and the sensitive skin around the eyes.  Purchase polycarbonate lenses instead of glass in case your child falls. Choose lenses that are dark for best protection against the sun.


For more information on sunglasses, please visit the American Optometric Association website at http://www.aoa.org/uv-protection.xml




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