Holiday eyecare tips
With summer on its way, many of us have already booked that all-important annual holiday. But before you jet off abroad or plan your daily excursions, it’s worth considering how changing environments can impact your eye health. Understanding how best to care for your vision during the warmer months will not only stave off headaches, but it will also help your eyes to stay comfortable. Here are our top holiday eye care tips.
1. Make sure you’re up-to-date with your eye examinations
The changing of any season is a good time to book in for an eye examination. Sight changes over time and the prescription you’ve been using may no longer be suitable. The best eye tests won’t just focus on your vision. They will also analyse the health of your eyes and check for any changes that could signify problems in the future. Having the right prescription glasses before your holiday will ensure you enjoy every moment, rather than battling with blurred vision or headaches.
2. Always wear sunglasses
They aren’t just for style. Sunglasses play a key role in protecting our eyes from potentially harmful UVA and UVB rays. Your eyes are ten times more sensitive than your skin, and excessive exposure to direct sunlight can lead to complications such as cataracts and macular degeneration. For optimum protection, check that your glasses offer a minimum of UVA400 protection and carry the CE mark.
If you wear prescription sunglasses, ensure the prescription is up to date. Investing in photochromic lenses can be beneficial too, as these will change from clear to dark when exposed to the sun’s UV rays.
3. Use UV protected contact lenses
Technology has evolved to the point where you can opt for contact lenses that also provide protection from the sun’s rays. Two options are available: Class 1 UV blocking, which block 90% of UVA rays and 99% of UVB rays; and Class 2 UV blocking, which block 70% and 95% of UVA and UVB rays respectively. It’s important to wear them in addition to your sunglasses (instead of as a substitute) for full protection over your entire eye.
4. Remove contact lenses when swimming
Before you take a dip in the pool, remember to remove your contact lenses as the bacteria found in water can attach itself to your lenses, increasing the risk of eye infections. Make sure to wear well-fitted goggles too as these will provide protection and allow you to see clearly when you're diving down to the bottom.
5. Check the condition of your glasses and sunglasses
Look over the lenses on last year's sunglasses and any transition lens glasses you may be using. Deep scratches can break the UV protective barrier, allowing light in and reducing the protection they can provide. If you need a new pair of sunglasses, the team at The Eye Establishment can help.
In addition to offering a range of high-quality designer sunglasses, we at The Eye Establishment offer the best eye test in London. Our experts assess your vision and conduct a thorough eye health check to ensure you’re ready for summer. If you’re based in Kensington, simply search ‘best eye test near me’ and book an appointment with us.