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The best sunglasses for your face shape

<p><strong>Best sunglasses for a round face</strong></p> <p><span>The thing to remember about selecting a frame style is that opposites are attractive, according to optician, Pete Hanlin. </span></p> <p><span>If you have a round face – defined by a wider forehead, rounded chin and full cheeks – like Adele, Michelle Williams, and Ginnifer Goodwin, a rectangular frame works beautifully to elongate the face and balance roundness.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for an oval face</strong></p> <p><span>Oval faces are very balanced (lucky you!). Genetically blessed beauties like Carey Mulligan, Kerry Washington, Julianne Moore, and Kate Middleton can really wear any style sunnies. </span></p> <p><span>The most important thing is to pick a pair that is sized in proportion to your face. Wayfarers, butterfly, and square styles are all super flattering!</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a heart-shaped face</strong></p> <p><span>Heart-shaped faces, like Reese Witherspoon, Halle Berry, and Zooey Deschanel, tend to have a broader forehead, high cheekbones, and narrower jaw with a more pronounced chin. </span></p> <p><span>“The best sunglasses for heart-shaped faces will de-emphasise the angle between the forehead and chin,” explains Catherine Brock, the founder and editor of <em>thebudgetfashionista.com</em>. </span></p> <p><span>Light-coloured frames and those with exaggerated bottoms direct attention downward and add width to lower part of the face.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a square face</strong></p> <p><span>Square faces are characterised by angular features and a strong jawline. Think Salma Hayek, Cameron Diaz, and Sandra Bullock. </span></p> <p><span>When shopping for sunglasses, look for thin, round, and oval shapes, which will help soften facial sharpness. </span></p> <p><span>Semi-rimless frames are also a great choice! “A half plastic, half metal combination frame works well,” says optometrist Dr Monica Nguyen.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a diamond-shaped face</strong></p> <p><span>“The goal when selecting sunglasses for diamond-shaped faces – see Keira Knightley and Viola Davis – is to use the frame to broaden the appearance of the forehead,” says optometrist Dr Barry Kay. </span></p> <p><span>Oval and cat-eye shapes help create balance by highlighting peepers and softening cheekbones. “Also, rimless frames are your friend, as this will really allow your cheekbones to shine,” notes model Victoria DiSorbo. </span></p> <p><span>Avoid frames with a dark bridge or darker lower rims, which tend to draw attention to the middle of the face.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for an oblong face</strong></p> <p><span>f you have an oblong face, like Liv Tyler and Sarah Jessica Parker, wider sunglasses, like aviators – especially those with decorative temples, are a great choice. </span></p> <p><span>These styles give the illusion of a shorter, wider face. Planning to spend time poolside or beachfront? Look for a wrapped style, which offers greater UV protection.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a high forehead</strong></p> <p><span>If you’re self-conscious about your forehead, opt for tall lenses or oversized frames. </span></p> <p><span>“A good trick is to pick a pair of sunglasses with a really tall browline bridge, which lifts the face and takes attention away from a high forehead,” says designer Larisa Ginzburg.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a small face</strong></p> <p><span>If you have a smaller face a la Miley Cyrus, look for more petite rectangular and square shapes and thinner frames – both metal and thinner acrylic – look best on small faces, according to designer Eva Spitzer. </span></p> <p><span>What to avoid? Steer clear of big chunky hipster type glasses.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for a prominent nose </strong></p> <p><span>For people with a large nose, Ginzburg recommends purchasing a pair of sunnies with adjustable nose pads and a broader nose bridge. </span></p> <p><span>A frame that has a floating nose bridge is also a good idea as it won’t leave marks on your skin from nose pads, and will sit comfortably.</span></p> <p><strong>Best sunglasses for wide-set eyes</strong></p> <p><span>If you have wide-set eyes, you may find a pilot-shaped frame more attractive than a retro cat-eye to complement your facial features,” explains Hanlin.</span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared in <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/culture/the-best-sunglasses-for-your-face-shape" target="_blank">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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Ray-Ban and Facebook collaborate on a controversial project

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Facebook and Ray-Ban have announced the launch of a “first generation” pair of sunglasses that has divided fans of the brand. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ‘smart glasses’ combine a sleek looking pair of sunnies that showcase the brand’s signature style, but with a very unique feature. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The glasses boast a tony 5MP camera lens in each of the glasses that can be used to capture life’s special moments completely hands free. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The glasses feature a simple touch button to start a 30-second video recording that says stored on the glasses. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When the user opens the Facebook View app, the photos and videos download onto your phone and can be shared on any social media platform. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Facebook's president of their Reality Labs Andrew Bosworth said the glasses are introducing a new way of connecting. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">"Ray-Ban Stories is designed to help people live in the moment and stay connected to the people they are with and the people they wish they were with.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">He said, "We're introducing an entirely new way for people to stay connected to the world around them and truly be present in life's most important moments, and to look good while doing it."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While the glasses certainly seem impressive, many potential customers have questions about privacy. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Facebook predicted the hesitancy, and said the glasses were “designed with privacy in mind”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a blog post announcing the product, they say "we have a big responsibility to help people feel comfortable and provide peace of mind, and that goes not only for device owners but the people around them, too."</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While Facebook assures users that the glasses are equipped with software to protect the privacy of others, it’s up to each individual customer to not abuse the new technology. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Facebook's Ray-Ban Stories are now on sale from $449 in Australia, at OPSM and Sunglass Hut or Ray-Ban online.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check out the promotional video here.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CTm1mBSBE8i/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CTm1mBSBE8i/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Ray-Ban (@rayban)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><em>Image credit: <span style="font-weight: 400;">Getty Images / Instagram @rayban</span></em></p>

Technology

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Tourists who buy cheap glasses overseas are putting themselves at risk of eye cancer

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A new study has found that tourists who buy cheap sunglasses from beach sellers overseas are putting themselves at risk of blindness and eye cancer.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A total of 35 per cent of the rip-off of famous brands offer zero protection against UV rays, which means that wearing them in bright sunlight could cause irreversible damage. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">According to </span><em><a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/travel/9825387/cheap-sunglasses-blind-eye-cancer-warning/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Sun</span></a></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">travellers should be hyper aware of cheap fakes, including “Ray-Bon” which are on sale at many international destinations.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">High UV exposure can cause photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis — a kind of sunburn to the eyeballs or eyelids, insurance company Direct Line said. It said drivers should always use good eyewear.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A survey by insurance company Direct Line found that 18 per cent of those buying sunglasses did not check for UV protection and 11 per cent said they would still purchase the sunglasses even after finding out that they offered no UV protection.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An added problem for drivers was that many who normally wear prescription glasses wear non-prescription sunglasses in bright sunshine. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Steve Barrett, head of motor insurance at Direct Line, said: “We urge all motorists to wear appropriate eye protection and prescribed lenses including prescription sunglasses while driving.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“If people cannot see to drive safely, either through not wearing the correct prescription lenses or sunglasses to protect from glare, they pose a real danger to themselves and everyone else on our roads.”</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>

Travel Trouble

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BIG W issues urgent recall for popular sunglasses

<p>The consumer watchdog has issued an urgent recall for a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses sold at BIG W amid concerns the lenses could shatter and damage eyes.</p> <p>The Australian Competition &amp; Consumer Commission said consumers who bought the Ray-Ban brown tortoiseshell sunglasses at the discount department store should stop using the product immediately and return them for a full refund.</p> <p>The recall applies to the non-prescription sunglasses sold at BIG W optical stores in South Australia, Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales between November 2016 and January 2019.</p> <p>The style number RB4175 can be found on the inside of the affected Ray-Ban sunglasses’ left arm.</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 278.129px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7826199/sunnies.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5b16cba791eb44c082f9a6b296182765" /></p> <p>According to the ACCC, the lenses of the sunnies might not be strong or robust enough, increasing the risk for cracking or breakage under pressure, or there might be some variation between the left lens and the right lens.</p> <p>“BIG W apologises to its customers for any inconvenience caused by this recall,” the statement read.</p> <p><span>Last week, the retailer also issued a recall for the Little Tikes 4-in-1 Trike stroller and the Emma Wiggles </span><a rel="noopener" href="/finance/money-banking/big-w-safety-recall-check-your-grandkids-don-t-have-this" target="_blank">children pyjama set</a><span> sold in their stores.</span></p>

Body

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How to find the right sunglasses for your face shape

<p>Whether your face is heart shaped, round, rectangular or otherwise, there are some specific types of sunglasses that will suit you (or not!).</p> <p><strong>1. Square</strong></p> <p>Try to soften your strong jaw line or wide forehead by choosing styles with rounded edges and curves. Think Tom Cruise aviators or round John Lennon style circular frames. This face shape also suits cat’s eye frames as they are wider than the cheekbones.</p> <p><strong>2. Round</strong></p> <p>In the opposite way, a round face will want to avoid glasses with too many curves or circles as these will accentuate the circular face shape rather than complement it. Focus on styles with thin sharp lines and edges (like square or rectangle frames) to elongate your face and make it appear thinner.</p> <p><strong>3. Diamond</strong></p> <p>With a narrow forehead and jaw line, diamond shaped faces need to ensure their frames aren’t wider than their cheekbones. Go for oval styles and round glasses that complement the face.</p> <p><strong>4. Heart</strong></p> <p>This face shape is widest at the forehead with a narrow chin. Many styles suit the heart shaped face, including wrap around glasses, aviators or Jackie O style butterfly shaped frames (which are wider at the top of the glasses). Try to find glasses with thin arms to enhance the symmetry of the face shape.</p> <p><strong>3. Oval</strong></p> <p>These are the symmetrical people who look good in almost any style. Try to avoid larger than life frames though as these will drown your favourable face shape. Try to find frames that cover your eyebrows as this looks best with this face shape. Have fun with bright colours and fun styles that you love.</p> <p><strong>6. Rectangle</strong></p> <p>There are lots of options for the oblong or rectangular face shape, with most large sunnies working well (while small frames don’t work at all). Think wayfarers, wrap-around or shield styles, square and rectangle frames.</p> <p>Do you consider face shape when choosing sunglasses? We would love to hear from you in the comments.</p>

Beauty & Style

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10 celebrities who make wearing glasses en vogue

<p>Whether they are actually vision impaired or are just using them as a fashion accessory, we love the way celebrities are embracing glasses. Here we look at 10 famous faces and their spectacles.</p><p><strong>Woody Allen</strong></p><p>Aside from his talent as a film director and actor, Woody Allen is equally famous for his dark, horn-rimmed glasses. He has worn the same style of glasses for decades – and his unchanged look is now considered “vintage”.</p><p><img width="360" height="450" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3913/woody-allen.jpg" alt="Woody Allen (2)"></p><p><strong>Diane Keaton</strong></p><p>Like the actress herself, Diane Keaton’s glasses are always elegant and stylish. She often opts for darker shades and is often seen in the classic “D shape” frames.</p><p><img width="375" height="500" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3914/diane-keaton.jpg" alt="Diane Keaton"></p><p><strong>Elton John</strong></p><p>With as many pairs of glasses as he does smash hit singles, Elton’s style is anything but subdued. Big, bold, sparkly – you name it, he’s worn it. Elton is also not afraid of a coloured lens, having worn large round yellow lenses on the cover of his Greatest Hits album.</p><p><img width="500" height="333" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3915/elton-john_500x333.jpg" alt="Elton John"></p><p><strong>Johnny Depp</strong></p><p>The small dark and round glasses really suit the 51-year-old actor. He’s also not afraid to wear glasses in his films, such as in <em>Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas</em>, <em>Charlie and the Chocolate Factory</em> and<em> Blow</em>.</p><p><img width="400" height="500" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3916/johnny-depp-glasses.jpg" alt="Johnny -Depp -Glasses"></p><p><strong>Tina Fey</strong></p><p>Famous for her <em>Saturday Night Live</em> impersonations and her <em>30 Rock</em> character, Liz Lemon, Tina Fey is often seen in her signature dark eyeglasses.&nbsp; To copy her look, go for a classic “cat eye” shape.</p><p><img width="492" height="371" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3917/tina-fey-glasses.jpg" alt="Tina -fey -glasses"></p><p><strong>Stevie Wonder</strong></p><p>Blind since shortly after birth, Stevie Wonder is always seen sporting his famous dark sunglasses. The accomplished singer and musician has never let his blindness hold him back, playing many instruments including the piano, harmonica, guitar and the bongos.</p><p><img width="497" height="385" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3918/stevie-wonder_497x385.jpg" alt="Stevie -Wonder"></p><p><strong>John Lennon</strong></p><p>The glasses worn by John Lennon are now so iconic they are often referred to as “John Lennon Glasses” – small, round, and wire framed. The style was so preferred by John Lennon that he wore it both as sunglasses and clear reading glasses.</p><p><img width="273" height="400" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3919/john-lennon.jpg" alt="John Lennon (1)"></p><p><strong>Heston Blumenthal</strong></p><p>Famous for his quirky cooking methods and over the top cooking experiments, Heston is rarely seen without his specs. And while the glasses themselves may change, the shape tends to be the same: wide-set and rectangular. He was even asked to design a range of glasses for UK optician Vision Express.</p><p><img width="500" height="313" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3921/heston-blumenthal_500x313.jpg" alt="Heston Blumenthal"></p><p><strong>Nicole Kidman</strong></p><p>The ever-evolving actress has really embraced fine-rimmed glasses of late. Can’t picture them? You’ll probably remember the look from her role in Eyes Wide Shut. Nicole is also very sun-conscious and you’ll often see her in dark sunglasses and long sleeved shirts when out in the sun.</p><p><img width="451" height="594" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3923/nicole-kidman.jpg" alt="Nicole Kidman (1)"></p><p><strong>Susan Sarandon</strong></p><p>The 68-year-old actress (yes, you read that correctly) really rocks her square frames – both as sunglasses and reading glasses. And who could forget her trademark cat eye sunglasses from <em>Thelma and Louise</em>.</p><p><img width="300" height="425" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/3924/susan-sarandon-glasses.jpg" alt="Susan -sarandon -glasses"></p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/health/eye-care/2014/12/the-evolution-of-glasses/" target="_blank">A look back at glasses over the years</a></span></strong></em></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/health/eye-care/2014/09/sunglasses-through-the-ages/" target="_blank">Sunglasses through the ages</a></span></strong></em></p><p><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="/health/eye-care/2014/12/choosing-glasses-to-suit-you/" target="_blank">How to choose glasses to suit your face shape</a></span></strong></em></p>

Eye Care

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Study reveals Aussies don’t prioritise UV protection for their eyes

<p>We’re the land of sun and surf but that title comes at a cost. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world and each year Aussies are four times more likely to develop skin cancer than any other form. Despite this, a recent poll commissioned by Specsavers revealed that 57 per cent of Australians do not prioritise UV protection for their eyes.</p><p>The Galaxy Research survey found that Australians prioritise style, comfort and cost when they purchase new sunglasses, rather than looking at the UV protection offered. The survey also found that more than a third of the population do not even check if their sunglasses offer UV protection. A national standard for sunglasses was introduced in Australia in 1971 to better inform people when purchasing lenses. All sunnies sold in Australia must be labelled and categorised under a five-tier classification system ranging from fashion spectacles that provide little UV protection to sunglasses with high protection. Despite this, only 4 per cent of surveyed Aussies checked if their lenses met with Australian standards.</p><p>“As we head into another hot summer, it’s a concern that so many Australians are not prioritising UV protection when choosing sunglasses,” says Specsavers Optometrist and Director of Professional Services, Peter Larsen.&nbsp;</p><p>“Although the eyelid is designed to protect the eye, the skin is very thin and contains fragile tissues that can be damaged by UV light,” explains Mr. Larsen, adding, “UV damage to the eye and eyelid can cause serious conditions such as eyelid skin cancers, melanoma, conjunctival cancers, macular degeneration and more.”</p><p>The survey also found that eye tests are a low priority for many Australians. While one in five get routinely checked for sun spots, just 6 per cent of Australians have regular eye tests.</p><p>“These days most people know about the damage UV rays can cause to the skin. However, it can also have severe effects on the delicate eye area. For most people I recommend they get an eye test every two years to keep their eye health in check,” Mr Larsen says.</p><p>“The key to keeping your eyes safe in the sun is wearing lenses that block UV, which offer a strong defence against eye and eyelid damage. Check with your optometrist to ensure your prescription sunglasses meet the Australian Standard.’”</p><p><a href="/health/eye-care/2015/01/what-are-protective-sunglasses/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Related link: How to check for UV protection in sunglasses&nbsp;</strong></span></a></p>

Eye Care

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Are your sunglasses ACTUALLY protective?

<p>With our harsh Australian sun it’s vital that we protect our eyes, which like our skin is susceptible to harmful UV rays. Long-term exposure to UV rays can lead to serious eye damage, including cataracts and cancer, while short-term complaints include eye sun burn, swelling and irritation. The best way to protect your eyes is wearing sunglasses but not all sunglasses are created equally – and cost or darkness of shades has nothing to do with quality. Here are five things to consider when purchasing your sunnies so you know they are actually protecting your eyes!</p><p><strong>Numbers matter</strong>&nbsp;<br> When shopping for sunglasses, check the swing tag. All sunglasses sold in Australia are tested and labelled according to a five-category classification. Look for categories two, three or four, which guarantee sufficient UV protection.<br> Lens category 0: Fashion spectacles<br> These are not sunglasses. They provide limited UV protection and very low sun-glare reduction.&nbsp;<br> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lens category 1: Fashion spectacles</span><br> Like category zero, these are not sunglasses. They provide limited sun-glare reduction and UV protection. These are not suitable for driving at night.&nbsp;<br> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lens category 2: Sunglasses&nbsp;</span><br> These sunglasses provide a medium level of sun-glare reduction and good UV protection.<br> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lens category 3: Sunglasses</span><br> These sunglasses will provide a good level of UV protection and a high level of sun-glare reduction.&nbsp;<br> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Lens category 4: Special-purpose sunglasses</span><br> These special purpose sunglasses provide a very high level of sun-glare reduction and good UV protection. Lens category four sunglasses must not be used when driving at any time.</p><p><strong>EPF rating</strong>&nbsp;<br> The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency has developed an eye protection factor (EPF) where sunglasses that comply with the above standards can be assigned an EPF rating from one to 10.<br> Sunglasses with EPF values of nine and 10 block almost all UV radiation.</p><p><strong>The right fit</strong>&nbsp;<br> A good level of UV protection won’t matter if your sunnies don’t fit properly. The best types are close fitting, wrap-around styles that will reduce amount of sunlight infiltrating from the sides. Remember, UV radiation rays can reach our eyes in many ways besides the sun – especially through reflective glare from water, clouds, roads and passing cars.</p><p><strong>Polarised lenses</strong>&nbsp;<br> Polarised lenses reduce glare by filtering out reflected sunlight but they don’t offer UV protection. Make sure you check the label to ensure its providing adequate UV protection.</p><p><strong>Lens colour</strong>&nbsp;<br> Think the darker the lenses the better the protection? Super-dark shades might work for going incognito but they don’t provide better sun safety. For the most part, the colour of the lenses doesn’t make a difference in sun protection.</p>

Eye Care

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Eyes can get sunburnt too

<p>We all know when the weather starts to heat up to grab the sunscreen and slather liberally. After all, we know the danger of the sun’s rays in causing skin cancer and unpleasant sunburns. But what often is missed in sun protection is our eyes. Just like our skin, our peepers need to be protected from the sun’s damaging rays. Not only can unprotected eyes exposure to UV rays cause sunburnt eyes (watering, itchy, dry or gritty after spending time in the sun) but continual exposure to sun increases our risk of eye diseases, including cataract, growths on eyes, cancer and macular degeneration which can cause vision loss. According to the Macular Disease Foundation, one in seven people over the age of 50 in Australia are affected by macular degeneration. Don’t gamble with your eyes and protect them.</p><p><strong>Invest in quality sunglasses</strong></p><p>Don’t rely on cheap sunnies from the bargain store. They won’t offer any protection from harmful sun rays. Purchase quality sunglasses, which offer 100 per cent protection against the damaging UVA and UVB sun rays. Polarised lenses also eliminate glare especially when driving.</p><p>In Australia, all sunglasses need to be tested for sun safety standards. The lens categories for protection against UV damage range from zero to four. Sunglasses with a rating of two only offer medium sun glare reduction and good UV protection so look for higher ratings.</p><p><strong>Choose a sufficient size</strong></p><p>Look for sunnies that have large frame size to shield eyes, eyelids and surrounding areas and stop rays from sneaking in. A wraparound style will stop sunlight from entering the sides. Remember, the more skin covered, the better.</p><p><strong>Wear broad-brimmed hats</strong></p><p>Wear a hat with at least a three-inch brim around as that can block up to half of rays.</p><p><strong>Sun damage can happen anytime</strong></p><p>Sun damage to the eyes can occur any time of year, not just in summer. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun’s rays can easily pass through haze and clouds.</p><p><strong>Be careful during intense condition</strong></p><p>The time of the day and year does influent the severity of the harmful UV rays. Unlike skin though, the worst time is not noon but during morning and mid-afternoon. This is because the eye is naturally shaded by the brow ridge when the sun is high in the sky. Sun exposure to eyes is usually worst not in summer but the other seasons as the sun is lower in the sky.</p><p><strong>Remember direct sunlight is not the only threat</strong></p><p>Reflected UV rays are also harmful although they feel less irritating to the eyes. Sun can be reflected on the snow, dry sand and sea.</p><p><strong>Be prepared</strong></p><p>Remember to bring your shades and hat whenever you go outside even if it’s just to pop down the shops. Squinting in the sun is bad for eyes even for short periods of time. Build up the habit and eye protection will come as second nature soon.&nbsp;</p>

Eye Care

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Eyes can get sunburnt too

<p>We all know when the weather starts to heat up to grab the sunscreen and slather liberally. After all, we know the danger of the sun’s rays in causing skin cancer and unpleasant sunburns. But what often is missed in sun protection is our eyes. Just like our skin, our peepers need to be protected from the sun’s damaging rays. Not only can unprotected eyes exposure to UV rays cause sunburnt eyes (watering, itchy, dry or gritty after spending time in the sun) but continual exposure to sun increases our risk of eye diseases, including cataract, growths on eyes, cancer and macular degeneration which can cause vision loss. According to the Macular Disease Foundation, one in seven people over the age of 50 in Australia are affected by macular degeneration. Don’t gamble with your eyes and protect them.</p><p><strong>Invest in quality sunglasses</strong></p><p>Don’t rely on cheap sunnies from the bargain store. They won’t offer any protection from harmful sun rays. Purchase quality sunglasses, which offer 100 per cent protection against the damaging UVA and UVB sun rays. Polarised lenses also eliminate glare especially when driving.</p><p>In Australia, all sunglasses need to be tested for sun safety standards. The lens categories for protection against UV damage range from zero to four. Sunglasses with a rating of two only offer medium sun glare reduction and good UV protection so look for higher ratings.</p><p><strong>Choose a sufficient size</strong></p><p>Look for sunnies that have large frame size to shield eyes, eyelids and surrounding areas and stop rays from sneaking in. A wraparound style will stop sunlight from entering the sides. Remember, the more skin covered, the better.</p><p><strong>Wear broad-brimmed hats</strong></p><p>Wear a hat with at least a three-inch brim around as that can block up to half of rays.</p><p><strong>Sun damage can happen anytime</strong></p><p>Sun damage to the eyes can occur any time of year, not just in summer. Even if it’s cloudy, the sun’s rays can easily pass through haze and clouds.</p><p><strong>Be careful during intense condition</strong></p><p>The time of the day and year does influent the severity of the harmful UV rays. Unlike skin though, the worst time is not noon but during morning and mid-afternoon. This is because the eye is naturally shaded by the brow ridge when the sun is high in the sky. Sun exposure to eyes is usually worst not in summer but the other seasons as the sun is lower in the sky.</p><p><strong>Remember direct sunlight is not the only threat</strong></p><p>Reflected UV rays are also harmful although they feel less irritating to the eyes. Sun can be reflected on the snow, dry sand and sea.</p><p><strong>Be prepared</strong></p><p>Remember to bring your shades and hat whenever you go outside even if it’s just to pop down the shops. Squinting in the sun is bad for eyes even for short periods of time. Build up the habit and eye protection will come as second nature soon.&nbsp;</p>

Eye Care

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Sunglasses through the ages

<p>The likelihood is that you currently own a few pairs, have previously owned many over the years, and that in your lifetime you will own, well, too many to count. In fact, if you recounted and thought about all of the styles you’ve had in your collection over time, you could probably chart the evolution of the popular accessory.</p><p><img width="309" height="499" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/1833/jackie-o_309x499.jpg" alt="Jackie O" style="float: left;">I am sure you’re familiar with style’s big players – the 1950’s cat eye channelled by Audrey Hepburn and the teashades championed by Ringo Starr – now on-trend with the grandkids. But have you ever navigated through the archives and uncovered the real codes of the stylish duo that perch below your brow, disguising those tell-all up-and-down glares and rolling eyes?</p><p>Sunglasses, I’m sure you’ll agree, have been on our radar for longer than we’d care to remember. A firm fixture since the 1900s, their evolution is almost as remarkable as the artsy forms they’ve taken today. The earliest note of any form of sunglasses came courtesy of the Roman emperors who manipulated semi-precious stones into smooth, transparent panes of protective glass.</p><p>Fast forward a few decades to 1936 and sunglasses, as we know them, began their journey to cult-accessory status, as style came into play and Hollywood took hold. Once polarised lenses were introduced – courtesy of Edwin H. Land – the functional side of sunglasses was complete, paving the way for style to take centre stage.</p><p><img width="323" height="332" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/1834/james-dean_323x332.jpg" alt="James Dean" style="float: left;">Come the 1940s, they were officially considered a fashion accessory. The “aviator” has its glory moment as the first style to gather pace and popularity through celebrity, championed equally by Hollywood’s elite and the general public. By the early 1950s, 1952 to be precise, the “wayfarer” made its debut. The trapezoidal lenses that were famously worn by James Dean, came in trademark black frames with silver hallmark diamond – they style that half a century later still exudes the same err of cool. Cat-eye sunglasses also had their heyday in the 1950s. Frames were exaggerated, winged and smattered with rhinestones or made from glitter-dusted plastic. Icons of the times, Jackie Kennedy, Sophia Loren and Marianne Faithfull all championed the drawn-out frames reinforcing their cult status.</p><p>Come the 1960s the aesthetic of wire-rimmed teashades became a hit with colourful-mirrored lenses radiating the carefree approach of the times. Mick Jagger and John Lennon quickly propelled them into the spotlight making them the style hero of the decade.</p><p>Today fashion has done a style 360 and the current favourites see the clock turned back to those iconic styles of 50 years past. Like Nero, the Roman Empire, who used to watch his gladiators through polished gems, we’ll be keeping an eye on this season’s offerings through the on-trend gilt-framed look.</p>

Eye Care

Placeholder Content Image

Sunglasses through the ages

<p>The likelihood is that you currently own a few pairs, have previously owned many over the years, and that in your lifetime you will own, well, too many to count. In fact, if you recounted and thought about all of the styles you’ve had in your collection over time, you could probably chart the evolution of the popular accessory.</p><p><img width="309" height="499" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/1833/jackie-o_309x499.jpg" alt="Jackie O" style="float: left;">I am sure you’re familiar with style’s big players – the 1950’s cat eye channelled by Audrey Hepburn and the teashades championed by Ringo Starr – now on-trend with the grandkids. But have you ever navigated through the archives and uncovered the real codes of the stylish duo that perch below your brow, disguising those tell-all up-and-down glares and rolling eyes?</p><p>Sunglasses, I’m sure you’ll agree, have been on our radar for longer than we’d care to remember. A firm fixture since the 1900s, their evolution is almost as remarkable as the artsy forms they’ve taken today. The earliest note of any form of sunglasses came courtesy of the Roman emperors who manipulated semi-precious stones into smooth, transparent panes of protective glass.</p><p>Fast forward a few decades to 1936 and sunglasses, as we know them, began their journey to cult-accessory status, as style came into play and Hollywood took hold. Once polarised lenses were introduced – courtesy of Edwin H. Land – the functional side of sunglasses was complete, paving the way for style to take centre stage.</p><p><img width="323" height="332" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/1834/james-dean_323x332.jpg" alt="James Dean" style="float: left;">Come the 1940s, they were officially considered a fashion accessory. The “aviator” has its glory moment as the first style to gather pace and popularity through celebrity, championed equally by Hollywood’s elite and the general public. By the early 1950s, 1952 to be precise, the “wayfarer” made its debut. The trapezoidal lenses that were famously worn by James Dean, came in trademark black frames with silver hallmark diamond – they style that half a century later still exudes the same err of cool. Cat-eye sunglasses also had their heyday in the 1950s. Frames were exaggerated, winged and smattered with rhinestones or made from glitter-dusted plastic. Icons of the times, Jackie Kennedy, Sophia Loren and Marianne Faithfull all championed the drawn-out frames reinforcing their cult status.</p><p>Come the 1960s the aesthetic of wire-rimmed teashades became a hit with colourful-mirrored lenses radiating the carefree approach of the times. Mick Jagger and John Lennon quickly propelled them into the spotlight making them the style hero of the decade.</p><p>Today fashion has done a style 360 and the current favourites see the clock turned back to those iconic styles of 50 years past. Like Nero, the Roman Empire, who used to watch his gladiators through polished gems, we’ll be keeping an eye on this season’s offerings through the on-trend gilt-framed look.</p>

Eye Care

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