Australians are exposed to some of the highest levels of solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the world.

While we tend to focus on avoiding UV damage to our skin, it’s important to remember our eyes as well.

Last summer, only six in ten Australians who spent time outside during peak UV exposure times said they wore sunglasses.

But sunglasses are much more than a fashion statement. Here’s why they’re important for our eye health (and our skin) – and some tips on how to choose a pair that works.

UV radiation is a type of energy produced by sources like the sun. There are three types: UVA, UVB, UVC. UVA and UVB are responsible for the sun-related damage to our skin and eyes.

UV can be direct, scattered or reflected, bouncing off surfaces such as water, sand and snow. But unlike the other types of energy the sun makes (visible light and infrared radiation), we can’t see or feel UV radiation.

This is why we can’t rely on clear skies or hot temperatures to work out if UV levels are high.

Instead, we use the UV Index, a scale from low (1–2) to extreme (11 ).

Official guidelines recommend sun protection when the UV index is 3 or higher. This includes protecting our eyes.

Excessive UV radiation can have both short and........

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