Understanding UV rays and their effects on the eyes
The solar radiation that reaches the Earth's surface contains several types of light :
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Visible light (400 to 700 nanometers)
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Ultraviolet rays (UVA, UVB, UVC)
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HEV light (high energy visible, blue light)
UVC rays are blocked by the ozone layer , but UVA and UVB rays penetrate the atmosphere and reach your eyes and skin . UVA rays can accelerate eye and skin aging , while UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and can, in the long term, cause serious diseases such as cataracts or macular degeneration .
In high mountains or on snow , the reflection of UV rays increases the risk . It is therefore crucial to protect your eyes with optimal sun protection such as UV400 sunglasses.
What does UV400 actually mean?
The UV400 designation on a pair of glasses means that the lenses filter 100% of UVA and UVB rays , up to a wavelength of 400 nanometers . This is the highest level of protection recognized by the European standard and the World Health Organization for eye protection .
🔍 Warning : The color or intensity of a lens tint does not guarantee any protection against UV rays. Dark lenses without a UV400 filter can even be dangerous: they dilate the pupil and allow a greater amount of ultraviolet radiation to penetrate the retina .
💡 Tip : For full sun or strong sunlight , opt for a suitable protection category (often category 3 or 4) in addition to UV400 treatment , as on Portofino sunglasses with smoked lenses .
The importance of UV400 protection in sunglasses
Why the shade is not enough
Dark -tinted lenses can reduce glare but only block a small portion of ultraviolet radiation . What provides protection is the UV filter , not the tint .
The advantages of UV400 treatment
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Maximum protection against UVA and UVB rays
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Reduction of skin aging around the eyes and eye aging
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Prevention of diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration
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Visual comfort even in bright light
Stylish example : Saint Tropez sunglasses with blue lenses offer both UV400 protection and a trendy look , perfect for the outdoors and bright light .
CE and UV400 categories: two complementary concepts
Understanding the categories of sun protection
The category of a sunglass lens indicates the amount of visible light filtered, but not the level of UV protection .
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Category 0 : very clear lenses, no sun protection , for indoor use.
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Category 1 : low filtration, for soft sunlight or cloudy weather.
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Category 2 : medium filtration, for moderate light.
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Category 3 : strong filtration, ideal for full sun (beach, driving).
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Category 4 : maximum filtration, for high mountains or snow (prohibited for driving).
Match category and UV400
Category 3 or 4 lenses with UV400 protection are ideal for reducing glare and protecting your eyes from UVA and UVB rays . Conversely, high-category lenses without UV400 protection allow a significant amount of ultraviolet radiation to pass through, increasing the risk of eye damage .
💡 Tip : For water sports or mountain activities, opt for polarized lenses in addition to UV400 to reduce glare, such as Ibiza sunglasses with pink lenses .
How to check if your glasses offer UV400 protection
Markings and standards to look for
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CE marking in accordance with European Union regulations.
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UV400 or “ 100% UV protection ” clearly indicated.
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Certification or guarantee provided by the optician or manufacturer.
Practical and in-store tests
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Opticians have devices that measure the amount of UV rays that lenses actually filter .
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Home tests (UV lamps, special filters) can give an indication, but the most reliable result remains that provided by a professional.
💡 Tip : Before wearing your new sunglasses , check that they meet safety standards and offer complete UV protection . UV400 sunglasses are a safe and certified choice.
Choosing sunglasses with UV400
Depending on the activity and the environment
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Full sun in the city or at the beach: category 3 + UV400 .
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High mountain or skiing: category 4 + UV400 , maximum protection against strong light and snow reflections.
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Water sports : polarized lenses + UV400 to reduce water reflections.
Depending on style and visual comfort
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Brown or grey tint: natural vision and glare reduction.
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Yellow or amber tint: improves contrast , useful in cloudy conditions.
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Blue tint or mirror effect: a trendy look while ensuring sun protection .
Example of fashion and safety : Saint Tropez sunglasses with blue lenses offer UV400 protection while adding an aesthetic touch to your look.
UV400 and technological innovations
Smart glasses and adaptive filters
New optical technologies allow lenses to modulate UV filtration according to light intensity . Photochromic lenses automatically darken in bright sunlight and lighten indoors , while maintaining 100% UV protection .
Combined blue light and UV400 protection
Some sunglasses incorporate both a UV400 filter and blue light (HEV) protection . This reduces the harmful effects of sunlight and artificial light , ideal for protecting the retina and preserving visual comfort during prolonged use.
💡 Tip : Portofino sunglasses with tinted lenses combine style , sun protection and comfort, ideal for everyday outdoor use.
Maintenance and lifespan of UV400 protection
Best practices for maintaining efficiency
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Store the glasses in a rigid case to prevent scratches on the UV coating .
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Clean with a microfiber cloth and a suitable spray .
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Avoid abrasive products or hot water which can damage the UV-resistant coating .
When to change your glasses
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After a significant impact or deep scratches on the surface of the glass.
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Every 2 to 3 years if the filter quality is no longer guaranteed by the manufacturer.
💡 Tip : Ibiza glasses with pink lenses are a good example of a trendy model that offers optimal protection while being durable if well maintained.
FAQ – UV400 and sun protection
Is UV400 sufficient to protect my eyes?
Yes, it blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays and offers maximum protection against the dangers of solar radiation .
Can cheap sunglasses offer UV400 protection?
Yes, but you need to check the markings and ask for a certificate . Some low-priced glasses advertise UV400 protection without complying with the European standard .
Are UV400 and polarized lenses the same thing?
No, polarization reduces glare but does not block UV rays. Ideally, choose polarized lenses with UV400 protection for complete sun protection .
Should I wear my UV400 glasses on cloudy days?
Yes, because up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate the atmosphere even on cloudy days, reaching your eyes and the surface of your skin .