Tests on sunglasses show deficiencies in protection against ultraviolet rays

Are Your Sunglasses Really Protecting Your Eyes from UV Rays?

Sunglasses are a popular accessory for protecting our eyes from harmful solar ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to various eye diseases. However, a recent study published in the journal Research on Biomedical Engineering has revealed alarming deficiencies in the protection provided by many sunglasses on the market.

The study evaluated 12 models of sunglasses and found that only one model met the safety limits for ultraviolet radiation exposure set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). Researchers from the Ophthalmic Instrumentation Laboratory at the University of São Paulo in Brazil discovered that most lenses did not meet the safety standards and lost their UV-blocking ability over time, increasing the risk of eye damage.

It is crucial for sunglasses to provide adequate protection against UV radiation, which is divided into three bands—UVC, UVB, and UVA. The study emphasizes the importance of adopting ICNIRP limits as standard practice in the industry to enhance the quality of UV protection in sunglasses.

Research and Innovation in Sunglass Protection

Professor Liliane Ventura and her team have been conducting research on sunglass protection since the 1990s. They have developed technologies to measure UV exposure and assess the condition of sunglasses for driving. Their efforts have led to patent applications for prototypes that can test UV radiation blocking in sunglasses and ensure consumer safety.

Another study by the research group highlighted the necessity for sunglasses to provide over 86% UVA protection, regardless of lens category. The research showed that inadequate UV protection in sunglasses could lead to increased UV exposure due to the widening of the field of vision, especially in bright outdoor environments.

Ensuring Effective UV Protection

The study advocates for extending UV protection in sunglasses up to 400 nm to minimize the risk of unnecessary UV exposure. Over the years, the researchers have collaborated with regulatory bodies to establish guidelines for sunglass protection in Brazil, leading to the development of standards that ensure UV protection within the recommended limits.

Despite the advancements in sunglass protection standards, there is still a need for certification of sunglasses before they are sold in the market. Professor Ventura is working on a prototype for measuring UV exposure of the eye and introducing a sun protection factor label to assist consumers in choosing sunglasses that offer adequate UV protection.