Some children in Northern Colorado are not as “into” wearing sunglasses as adults are. However, the need for children to wear sunglasses in Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley is actually very high especially because we are at higher altitude and the rays from the sun are more intense. Because children generally spend much more time outdoors playing their need for sunglasses is greater. Some experts say that we will receive up to 80% of our personal UV ray exposure from the sun by the time we turn 18 years old.
Many styles available
Today we have so many fun and colorful styles available, your child is sure to find a pair of sunglasses that they will enjoy wearing again and again. Children’s sunglasses are available in a wide variety of styles and sizes for both boys and girls. Another added feature is that virtually any children’s frame can be transformed into sunglasses by adding prescription or non-prescription sun lenses.
We are seeing that metal frames are very popular for children’s sunglasses because of their durability. Here in Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley the wraparound style like those worn by adults are also very popular in smaller sizes for children. These wraparound glasses fit a little closer to the face providing better UV protection coverage not only for their eyes but also for the tender skin around their eyes as well which can easily become burned if not covered.
Choose lenses with 100% UV protection
Most of the children’s sunglsses that we are seeing offer 100% UV protection. this is very important in making the choice as to which pair to buy. The damaging effects of UV radiation build up over the course of a person’s lifetime. By reducing your youngster’s exposure to harmful UV rays during childhood, you will be reducing their risk of cataracts and other eye problems as they become adults.
Polycarbonate lenses are a wonderful choice for children’s sunglasses because they have 100% UV protection built-in, plus they are lighter and much more impact-resistant than lenses made of other materials. They can also be tinted to almost any shade you desire.
Photochromic polycarbonate lenses are a good choice for kids who need prescription eyewear. This type of lens darkens automatically when exposed to the sun’s UV rays, then quickly returns to a clear indoors – so one pair of eyeglasses does the job of two! These glasses also offer 100% UV protection.
Don’t forget the accessories!
To help to protect your investment in your child’s sunglasses, it is wise to purchase a durable, hard-shell carry case for the glasses. Also, if they are old enough, teach your son or daughter how to clean and care for their eyewear properly. Getting sunglass cords (commonly called “retainers”) may also be a good idea. These can attach to the temples of the frame so your child can take their sunglasses off their face and the eyewear will stay with them – hanging from their neck instead of getting put down somewhere, misplaced.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 970-204-4020 or click on the link on the side of the page.
