Protection: Sun Safety for little eyes
Many of us had the sun smart Slip, Slop, Slap message drummed into us from childhood. But are you aware of Slip, Slop, Slap, and Wrap?
The message is to slip on some clothing and into the shade, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses.
Why are sunglasses important for babies and toddlers?
Sunglasses are important to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them. This is especially important for babies and children for whom overexposure to UV radiation can cause a predisposition to eye problems.
Just as a baby’s skin is more vulnerable to the sun, their developing eyes also have an increased susceptibility to UV damage.
The New Zealand Association of Optometrists (NZAO) says most of the eye damage caused by UV radiation builds up over a long period of time and cannot be reversed. So the sooner you start protecting your little one’s eyes from the sun, the lower their risk will be of ever developing future eye problems.
“There is some evidence that daily exposure to UV radiation in very bright sunlight over many years may increase the risk of developing cataracts which cause a gradual clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Exposure may also increase the risk of macular degeneration, an eye condition resulting from damage to the retina.”
In NZ and Australia, we have to be particularly careful as our peak summer UV levels are roughly 40% higher than those at comparable latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. That’s because Earth’s orbit is elliptical, which means the Southern Hemisphere is closer to the sun during our summer. The thickness of the ozone layer is also a factor as is our clearer air quality.
How to choose sunglasses for little ones
Treat sunglasses as a necessity, not just an accessory. Although they certainly can be a fun fashion accessory and look super cute on babies!
You’ll want to find sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection, like the Izipizi range.
Polarized lenses are also a bonus as they protect against glare, giving visual comfort. Opting for grey lenses also means they don’t distort but instead respect natural colours
Durability is also key with kids' glasses. Izipizi’s ultra-flexible, BPA-free, and hypoallergenic frames are also great for sensitive skin.
In addition, straight arms mean they will also adapt to your baby’s growth.
Of course, it's easier said than done to keep sunglasses on a wriggly baby every time you head outside!
That’s why Izipizi baby and kids sunglasses come with an optional ultra-flexible and adjustable silicone strap. This helps keep glasses on so they don’t get lost.
Finding a comfortable fit will also make your little one happier to wear them.
IZIPIZI offers three kids sunglass ranges:
- Baby for 0-9 months (head size 34-41 cm)
- Kids for 9-36 months (head circumference 40-47 cm)
- Kids+ for 3-5 years (head size 46-53 cm)
Lead by example, if your children see you wearing sunglasses, they’re more likely to want to wear them too!
Getting little ones to wear sunglasses not only protects their eyes now and for the future, it helps them develop habits that last for life.
Don’t forget those other sun smart rules:
- Find shade — especially for babies under 6 months. Car sunshades and stroller sun covers are a good investment.
- Choose a wide-brimmed hat
- Try to limit your sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun's rays are most intense
- Dress kids in cool clothing with good coverage
- Use sunscreen daily, even on a cloudy day.
