Seasons in the sun

As we enter half term for schools and with the Easter holidays just around the corner, we have the excitement of dusting down suitcases and anticipating some sunshine! During this time, it’s important to remember our eyes won’t be as happy to see the sun as we will…

Experience the new Range Rover 2025 Sunwear collection at Ray-Lewis and Insight Opticians

Sunglasses are central to effective eye protection. If existing sunglasses are old or scratched, schedule an eye test to ensure their prescription remains up to date. If you need a new pair, we stock a comprehensive range to suit all ages, with various lens options available. Never take cracked or damaged sunglasses away with you – if they fall apart mid-holiday, your eyes could be exposed to dangerous amounts of ultraviolet light. Also avoid cosmetic sunglasses, which don’t offer the 100 per cent UV protection our lenses provide.

The Ray-Lewis team in Munnar, India

Effective eyecare also involves appropriate clothing. Wide-brimmed hats and baseball caps keep direct sunlight at bay, preventing heat headaches, sunburned scalps and eyestrain. Suncream should be lightly but regularly applied, avoiding direct contact with the eyes. Try to choose a water-repellent brand, so a quick dip won’t wash it off.

Always test suncream before setting off, since some brands contain ingredients and fragrances capable of causing eye irritation. Immediately treat stinging or burning by flushing your eyes out with running water and applying cool damp cloths. Avoid eye rubbing, which pushes the cream further into your skin and eyes, increasing irritation.

Finally, the above advice applies to children as well as grown-ups. Youngsters may struggle to tell you their head hurts or their skin feels hot, so ensure they’re appropriately protected at all times. Pack snug-fitting sunglasses and wide hats, ensure suncream is regularly and liberally applied, and drink plenty of water.