A study of 2,000 people conducted by Specsavers saw 71% of respondents confess to prioritising looking good over protecting their eye health when buying sunglasses.
The multiple found that 40% overlooked UV protection ratings or did not know what it meant, while 67% said they bought sunglasses without checking how well they protect their eyes from the sun.
Giles Edmonds, Specsavers’ clinical services director, said: ‘It’s essential that sunglasses meet the safety standards to protect against UV damage. Sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory – they’re a legitimate form of sun protection.’
Other survey results revealed that the average adult was willing to spend up to £71.50 on sunglasses and 38% said although they wore spectacles they do not own prescription sunglasses.