When we talk about sun protection for children, we usually think of sun creams and hats, but it's important not to forget about protecting children's eyes from the sun's UV rays.

Children are particularly vulnerable to sun damage, which can lead to short- and long-term vision problems.

Sunglasses are therefore essential for spending time outdoors, especially when the sun is shining.

The dangers of the sun for the eyes.

Children's eyes are more sensitive than those of adults, because their crystalline lens (the part of the eye that focuses light on the retina) is clearer and therefore lets more UV rays through. The crystalline lens doesn't become protective until the age of 12, and doesn't become fully operational until adulthood. Before this age, the crystalline lens allows over 75% of UV rays to pass through, and from 0 to 1 year, 90% of UV rays reach the retina in children.

As children spend more time outdoors than the average adult, they are also more exposed to risks such as photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis (inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva respectively). These often painful effects require treatment, but can easily be avoided by wearing sunglasses.

It's therefore important to get a young child used to wearing the right sunglasses as soon as possible, in order to protect his or her solar capital. So, if you're wondering "at what age should a baby start wearing sunglasses?", our answer is "as early as possible". Sunglasses are essential for prolonged exposure to the sun, or in bright sunlight.

What is blue light?

Also known as HEV (High Energy Visible), blue light is the most energetic part of the visible spectrum and is known to be 15 times more harmful to the retina than other colors in the spectrum. In particular, HEV light causes photochemical damage to the retina's pigment epithelium and photoreceptors. These retinal cell degradation mechanisms are known to promote age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Sunglasses are still stylish!

They help reduce eye fatigue

Exposure to bright light can cause eyestrain, so UV protection reduces the effort involved in blocking this light, and is a great help.

Immediate visual comfort

In sunny weather, we tend to wrinkle our eyelids and our pupils retract, but that's not enough to protect us. Sunglasses will reduce glare and provide immediate visual comfort.

Blocking the sun's reverberation

When you're at the beach, skiing or even near a wet surface, the sun's rays will intensify, causing severe glare. Sunscreen will help protect your children's eyes from this bright light.

So how do you choose the right sunglasses?

Categories 0

They are not tinted and therefore do not protect your children's eyes, so they are mainly used as goggles or sports goggles to protect eyes from wind and dust.

Categories 1 and 2

They are only slightly tinted and are therefore also recommended for sports in low light conditions, or are generally used for aesthetic purposes.

Category 3

They are ideal for walks and outdoor activities in fine weather. This category is widely used, but also highly recommended for children.

Category 4

They're best reserved for extreme light situations, such as on a boat or skiing, where the sun's reflection is very strong. If these glasses are used in a "normal" situation, your child may find his or her vision far too dark, and will probably not want to wear them.

For babies from 0 to 5 months

There's no need for him to wear sunglasses. It is, however, important to protect him from the sun with hats and to avoid the brightest hours of the day.

From 5 months to 2 years

It's important to choose glasses with an elastic band to hold them in place on their face. What's more, until the age of 2, babies have no nasal bridge, so it's essential to choose a model with a rounded shape to adapt to their nose.

From 2 to 5 years

It's important to choose comfortable, well-fitting sunglasses with soft temples that won't leave marks. A strap is also recommended, so your child can't lose them on his or her adventures.

From 5 to 7 years

Instead, opt for comfortable, lightweight glasses. You can also add a strap to make sure your child doesn't lose them, but this isn't necessary.

Over 7 years

Finally, for children over the age of 7, glasses can be similar to those worn by an adult, but the most important thing is to choose glasses that suit them.

Are you familiar with Cébé 1500 blue light lens technology?

This technology is ideal for preventing eye fatigue and visual damage in children, as it filters out up to 94% of blue light and offers 100% UV protection. Available in category 3, they enhance visual activity and provide better color perception.

Made from polycarbonate, these lenses are lightweight and offer maximum impact resistance. It's the perfect combination for children to enjoy their outdoor adventures to the full.

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