BIGGER is better when it comes to sunglasses, with leading optometrists warning that the latest trend for tiny Matrix-style sunnies could lead to eye disease.
Australia's peak professional body of optometrists, Optometry Australia, has warned the '90s-inspired "microshades" trend, which made an impact at the recent London and Paris Fashion Weeks, do not adequately protect eyes from harmful UV rays.
The smaller "Matrix" glasses are often worn on the bridge of the nose (as donned by actors Keanu Reeves and Hugo Weaving in the 1999 sci-fi action movie of the same name) and have recently been worn by the likes of top models Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid.
Optometry Australia's Luke Arundel said while the body welcomes any celebrity attention given to sunglasses, "microshades appear to be worn as pure fashion accessories and not serious UV protectors".
"We welcome sunglasses being made the must-have accessory, but they must also protect your eyes rather than just your image," he said.
Our eyes are 10 times more sensitive to UV than our skin - and too much exposure to UV light increases the risk of various eye diseases and cancer.According to Cancer Council Australia, 300 Aussies are diagnosed with eye cancer every year.
Cataract and macular degeneration have also been linked to cumulative UV exposure.
"Choosing sunglasses that don't protect from the side and reflected UV is a common mistake," Mr Arundel said.
"Light entering the eyes from the side of the head can cause pterygium - a wing of fleshy tissue to grow over the surface of the eye, which in turn can cause redness, irritation and affect vision (along with the eyes' cosmetic appearance)."
Also called "surfer's eye", pterygium is common in occupations where people spend a lot of time outside.
"Wearing close-fitting sunglasses with a wide arm or a wrap-around style, along with a broad-rimmed hat, is the best way to protect your eyes," Mr Arundel said.
He said most optometrists stock the latest range of designer sunglasses in styles that not only protect against UV but that are also fashionable.
Mr Arundel emphasised the importance of wearing sunglasses year-round.
"Don't be fooled by clouds or the fact that you're in the shade," he said.
"A significant amount of UV penetrates cloud cover and is reflected off surfaces such as the ground, sand or water."
When buying sunglasses, Mr Arundel advised people to check the sun protection factor and look for high category (Australian standard) lenses - and he warned that a high retail price doesn't always mean better protection.
Find an optometrist in your area - www.goodvisionforlife.com.au
