With the arrival of Spring and Summer, many parents are concerned about their children's exposure to the sun. On the one hand, being exposed to the sun helps to produce vitamin D, on the other hand, excessive exposure can cause damage to our children's eyes.

The effect of UV radiation on children's eyes is a serious concern for parents, which is why many make sure to equip their babies with sunglasses.

Why is it important for children to wear sunglasses?

It is estimated that up to 80% of the damage caused to people's eyes by UV radiation over our lifetime occurs by the age of 10. This is because the lenses of babies' and young children's eyes are cleaner and much more sensitive. UV light is associated with increased chances of developing retinal diseases as well as abnormal growth on or around the eye.

Therefore, it is commonly accepted that babies and young children face risks of eye damage if their eyes are not properly protected with sunglasses. Studies have shown that while 80% of parents regularly apply sunscreen to their children, less than 1/3 make sure to provide them with sunglasses.

How else can I protect my child from the sun?

Sunglasses offer good protection to your child's eyes, but there is always room for greater safety. You can, in combination with sunglasses, wear your child a hat with a wide brim to give him the extra sun protection he needs.