MILLIONS of Brits are putting their eyesight at risk by opting for style over protection when it comes to wearing sunglasses, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 adults found one in four (23 per cent) are more likely to purchase a pair of sunglasses based on looks alone.
It comes as temperatures could rise to 30C as early as next week, bringing the sun out in full swing.
While 19 per cent admit they don’t know how effective their shades are in protecting them from UV rays.
And 37 per cent are unaware sunglasses have different levels of UV protection, with 66 per cent only caring that they match their outfit.
As well as this, only 18 per cent wear sunglasses all year round, despite the risk of sun damage during any season.
Giles Edmonds, clinical services director at Specsavers, which commissioned the research, said: “Long-term sun exposure can cause irreversible damage to your eyesight and can increase the risk of specific eye conditions such as cataracts or age-related macular degeneration, a common cause of blindness.
“The right sunglasses can protect the eyes by filtering UV light from the eyes.
“However, many people still choose a cosmetic pair over safety, which may cause the pupil to dilate, increasing the amount of UV light filtering into the eyes.”
The study also found 31 per cent are concerned about sun damage if they forget their shades on a sunny day.
However, a little over one in 20 (six per cent) confessed their biggest concern would be adding to the wrinkles around their eyes.
It also emerged half of those polled believe their eyesight has worsened over the last 10 years, with more than one in 10 reporting a significant deterioration.
And 39 per cent wish they’d taken better care of their peepers when they were in their younger years.
The research, conducted via OnePoll, also looked at misconceptions surrounding sunglasses – and found 23 per cent believe those with larger lenses provide better protection from UV rays.
While 14 per cent think that darker sunglasses always offer better UV protection.
Giles Edmonds from Specsavers, which has addressed some common sunglasses misconceptions, added: “There are a lot of myths around sunglasses and their UV protection.
“For example, the darkness of your sunglasses lenses has nothing to do with UV protection — it only helps to reduce the brightness of light that reaches your eyes.
“There are different lens categories and levels of UV protection to choose from and it can be hard to know which to choose from.
“So, we recommend speaking with someone at your local store to help you find the best pair for you.”
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