Category: Eye Health

Your Eyes Need Sun Protection Too: Why UV-Blocking Lenses Are Essential for Healthy Vision

At Lauder and Rees, we’ve been proud to serve the Paddington community for over 50 years, offering the broadest range of eyecare solutions tailored to your needs. Our commitment to quality and innovation means we don’t just help you see clearly—we help you protect your eyes for life. While many people focus on protecting their skin from the sun, it’s equally important to remember that your eyes need protection from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, too.

Sunlight contains invisible UV radiation, which can cause significant damage to your eyes over time. This damage can accumulate gradually, even on cloudy days when you might not feel the sun’s heat directly. Wearing UV-blocking lenses is one of the simplest and most effective ways to guard your vision from this invisible threat.

Why UV Protection Matters for Your Eyes

Here are five key reasons why UV-blocking lenses are an essential part of your daily eyewear:

1. Prevent Cataracts: Protect the Window to Your World

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision impairment worldwide. This condition occurs when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred or dim vision. Research has shown that long-term exposure to UV rays can accelerate the development of cataracts. Wearing lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays significantly lowers this risk, helping to preserve your vision as you age.

2. Protect Your Retina: Safeguard the Most Sensitive Part of Your Eye

Your retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye that sends images to your brain. Damage to the retina can lead to serious eye conditions such as macular degeneration, which affects central vision and can severely impact your quality of life. UV radiation contributes to retinal damage, so UV-blocking eyewear acts as a shield, maintaining your eye health and helping prevent long-term vision loss.

3. Avoid Corneal Sunburn: Shield Your Eyes from Painful Irritation

Just like your skin, your eyes can get sunburned—a condition known as photokeratitis. This happens when the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, is damaged by intense UV exposure. Symptoms include redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and a feeling of grit in the eyes. UV-blocking lenses protect the cornea, preventing this painful condition and reducing the risk of temporary vision problems.

4. Reduce Skin Cancer Risk: Protect the Sensitive Skin Around Your Eyes

The skin surrounding your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it especially vulnerable to UV damage. Prolonged exposure without protection can lead to skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Wearing sunglasses with full UV protection provides an important barrier, shielding this sensitive skin and reducing your risk of developing skin cancer around your eyes.

5. Stop Sun-Related Eye Growths: Prevent Unwanted and Harmful Growths on the Eye

Conditions such as pterygium—a fleshy growth that can spread over the white part of the eye—are linked to UV exposure. These growths can cause discomfort, redness, and in severe cases, affect your vision. Regular use of UV-blocking lenses helps minimize your risk by protecting the delicate tissues of the eye from sun damage.

Stylish Protection Starts at Lauder and Rees

At Lauder and Rees, located on Praed Street in Paddington, we combine decades of expertise with the latest technology to bring you eyewear that does more than just look good—it protects your eyes from harmful UV rays all year round.

Our extensive collection includes:

  • Prescription sunglasses: Tailored to your vision needs with full UV protection.
  • Non-prescription sunglasses: Perfect for everyday wear, designed to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
  • Polarized lenses: Reduce glare and enhance visual clarity, ideal for driving and outdoor activities.
  • Photochromic lenses: Adapt to changing light conditions, offering UV protection indoors and out.

Whether you’re searching for a classic look or the latest trendy frames, our expert team will help you find the perfect pair that fits your style and lifestyle.

Why Choose Lauder and Rees?

With over half a century of experience, Lauder and Rees is a trusted name in eyecare. We pride ourselves on:

  • Personalized eye exams and consultations
  • Comprehensive eyewear fittings
  • Access to the latest lens technologies
  • Friendly, knowledgeable staff committed to your eye health

Protecting your vision is a lifelong commitment, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Visit Us Today

Don’t wait until the damage is done. Protect your eyes stylishly and effectively with our UV-blocking eyewear. Visit our store on Praed Street, Paddington, to explore our full range and speak with our experts. BOOK NOW

Your eyes deserve the best care—and at Lauder and Rees, we’re proud to provide it for over 50 years.

7 Best Foods for Optimal Eye Health

We’ve all heard that carrots are good for our eyes, but did you know there’s a whole spectrum of colourful, delicious foods that can help maintain and even improve your eye health? As your trusted opticians, we’re not just here to fit you with the perfect pair of glasses – we’re passionate about helping you take care of your precious peepers from the inside out. So, let’s dive into the world of eye-friendly nutrition and discover how you can eat your way to better vision – the best food for eye health!

Colourful Foods for Vibrant Vision

When it comes to eye health, think of your plate as an artist’s palette. The more colourful your meals, the better! Here’s why:

1. Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, and collard greens are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that act like internal sunglasses for your eyes. These compounds help filter harmful blue light and protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. Try adding a handful of spinach to your morning smoothie or whipping up a tasty kale salad for lunch.

2. Orange You Glad We Mentioned Carrots?

Yes, the rumours are true – carrots are fantastic for your eyes! They’re rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A, essential for good vision. But don’t stop at carrots – sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and apricots are also excellent sources of this eye-loving nutrient.

3. Berry Good News

Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are bursting with vitamin C and other antioxidants that support the health of your eye’s blood vessels. Snack on a handful of mixed berries or top your morning yoghurt with these tiny treasures.

4. Go Fish!

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are swimming with omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA. These healthy fats are crucial for proper retinal function and can help prevent dry eye syndrome. Aim for two servings of fatty fish per week, or consider a high-quality fish oil supplement if you’re not a seafood fan.

5. The Incredible, Edible Egg

Eggs are a true powerhouse of eye nutrition. The yolks contain lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins D and E – all of which play important roles in eye health. Start your day with a veggie-packed omelette or enjoy a hard-boiled egg as a satisfying snack.

6. Nuts About Eye Health

Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are rich in vitamin E, which may help slow the progression of age-related eye diseases. A small handful of mixed nuts makes for a crunchy, satisfying snack that your eyes will thank you for.

7. Citrus Sensation

Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are bursting with vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the health of your eye’s blood vessels and may help prevent cataracts. Squeeze some fresh lemon into your water or enjoy a juicy orange as a refreshing snack.

Beyond the Plate: Lifestyle Factors for Eye Health

While a nutrient-rich diet is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional tips to keep your vision sharp:

1. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for producing tears and maintaining overall eye health. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day.

2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection when outdoors, even on cloudy days.

3. Practise the 20-20-20 Rule

If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain.

4. Get Regular Eye Exams

Even if your vision seems fine, regular check-ups can catch potential issues early.

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking increases your risk of developing cataracts, AMD, and other eye problems. If you smoke, consider quitting for the sake of your overall health, including your eyes.

Bringing It All Together – A Day of Eye-Healthy Eating

Now that we’ve explored the best foods for eye health, let’s put it all together with a sample day of eye-friendly eating:

Breakfast: Spinach and mushroom omelette with a side of berries

Snack: Handful of mixed nuts and an orange

Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with leafy greens and avocado

Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Dinner: Baked sweet potato topped with black beans, salsa, and a dollop of Greek yoghurt

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to nutrition and eye health. You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet overnight – start by incorporating one or two of these eye-friendly foods into your meals each day and gradually build from there.

At Lauder & Rees Opticians, we believe that good vision is an essential part of living your best life. By nourishing your eyes with the right foods and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, you’re investing in clear, comfortable vision for years to come. Of course, a nutritious diet is no substitute for regular eye exams, so be sure to schedule your next check-up with us. Together, we’ll keep your eyes healthy, happy, and seeing clearly!

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