TOKYO - As ultraviolet radiation reaches stronger levels with the onset of summer, the number of days with intense UV readings has doubled over the past 30 years. While people often remember to protect their skin, experts are warning that protection for the eyes is equally essential—and often forgotten.
According to recent findings, glasses are four times more effective than hats at shielding the eyes from harmful rays.
Eyewear retailers are reporting booming demand. At JINS, a major Japanese glasses chain, sales in March and April rose 2.5 times year-on-year. "We believe this is due to the increasing frequency of extreme heat," said Honda from JINS. More people can now be seen wearing sunglasses on the streets, yet many remain reluctant, citing discomfort or the impression that sunglasses make them look pretentious.
A common misconception is that darker lenses provide better protection. In fact, lens darkness only reduces visible light and glare—it has no direct correlation with ultraviolet protection. As explained by Professor Yamada of Kyorin University, "UV rays are invisible and not related to glare. A darker tint doesn't guarantee UV protection." This means even clear lenses can block UV rays effectively if they have proper UV-cut coating.
New technologies have improved eye protection further. Double-sided UV-cut lenses, which also block UV rays reflected from behind, are gaining popularity. These lenses offer enhanced protection and have seen a 70% increase in sales compared to the previous year. UV damage to the eyes can lead to symptoms such as redness, headaches, and tearing. Over time, exposure may cause conjunctivitis or even pigmentation on the sclera, similar to sunspots on the skin.
One of the top-selling items this season is a hybrid type of eyewear: clear UV-protective lenses that darken automatically when exposed to sunlight. These photochromic glasses transition into sunglasses outdoors, eliminating the need to switch pairs. Demonstrations show the lenses changing to a gray tint within seconds when worn outside.
UV protection for children is also becoming more common, with special kids' sunglasses and even clear UV-cut options now available in response to parent demand. Professor Yamada stresses that UV protection should begin in childhood to minimize long-term damage.
As attention to skincare grows during the summer months, experts are encouraging people not to forget their eyes—an area made up of living tissue that is highly vulnerable to UV exposure.
Source: FNN
