Expensive sunglasses aren't necessarily the best. Make sure you choose the right shades to protect your eyes from damaging rays this summer...

Expensive sometimes means better, but not always in the case of sunglasses. What really matters is how effective the lenses are in filtering out harmful UV rays.

Dynamic sunglasses with mirrored lenses look fantastic, but always ensure they will block UVA and UVB rays.

When you choose sunglasses the first thing to look for is the CE mark. That means they have been made to high standards which are clearly set out in EC directives. Don't assume that you get more UV protection with pricier sunglasses, or glasses with a darker tint. Look for a label or sticker that specifically states that the glasses block 100 per cent of UVA and UVB.

UV rays are the part of the spectrum that cause sunburn, premature aging of the skin and, in some cases, skin cancer. These same harmful rays can also cause eye damage, including increased risk of developing cataracts and degeneration of the macula (the most sensitive part of the retina on which light rays are focused). Even brief exposure often results in a temporary but painful condition called photokeratitis – effectively sunburn of the cornea (front surface of the eye).

All glasses with plastic lenses provide some UV protection, but there are still a worrying number of sunglasses found on sale every year that don't block all the harmful rays. Wearing these, especially if they are a dark tint, can actually result in more eye damage than if you wear no sunglasses at all. That's because the tint may encourage the pupil to open up, letting more UV into the eye.

Even with glasses that provide 100 per cent UV protection, light from the sides can be reflected into the eye. It's a good idea to choose fashionable wrap-around styles that sit close to the face as they help to prevent this. Ideally everyone, and children in particular, should wear good quality sunglasses and a peaked hat when spending time outdoors. Places where there is a lot of reflected light – such as the beach or by a pool – present the greatest risk.

Children are thought to be at higher risk because the cornea, lens and fluids of their eyes are much clearer, allowing more light to reach the retina.

By the age of 16, more than half-a-lifetime's worth of damaging Ultra Violet (UV) light is likely to have been absorbed. Protecting your child's eyes from UV when they are young could help to prevent macular degeneration when they are older.

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Here's some useful advice for choosing safe sunglasses:

• Check that the glasses carry the CE mark or British Standards number BS 1836, and that they have a label or sticker clearly stating that they filter out 100 per cent of UVA and UVB light.
• Sunglasses are available in filter categories from 0-4, where 4 is the darkest lens. Category 4 offers more comfort in bright sunlight as it avoids straining the eyes. However, when buying sunglasses which will be worn for driving, make sure they are in the filter category range of 0-3, as category 4 will be too dark for safe driving.
• Before you buy, ask to try the sunglasses in bright sunshine. If your vision feels cool and comfortable with no sense of glare, the glasses are likely to be right for you.
• Tints in neutral grey, amber, brown or green are good choices as they have less effect on the way we see colours. Some pink or blue tints can distort colours and are not recommended for driving.
• If possible choose a close-fitting, wrap-around style to prevent stray UV entering the eye from the side.
• Children should be encouraged to wear sunglasses whenever they are out in the sun. They need smaller versions of real, protective adult sunglasses – not toy sunglasses. Polycarbonate lenses are generally recommended for children because they are the most shatter-resistant.
• Wearing contact lenses to correct your vision gives you the freedom to choose any style of sunglasses, including the latest sports styles that may not be available with prescription lenses. People who wear contact lenses that offer UV protection should still wear sunglasses.
• Remember, the more UV light you are exposed to, the greater the eye damage is likely to be, so it's never too late to start protecting your eyes.

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