Not All Sunglasses Protect Your Eyes Equally
Dark lenses do not automatically mean safe lenses. A pair of cheap sunglasses with dark tinting but no UV filter is actually worse for your eyes than wearing nothing at all. This is because dark lenses cause your pupils to dilate, letting in more UV radiation — the opposite of protection. Understanding UV ratings is essential when choosing sunglasses, and UV400 is the standard you should look for.
What Does UV400 Mean?
UV400 means the lenses block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometres. This covers the entire ultraviolet spectrum — both UVA rays (315 to 400nm) and UVB rays (280 to 315nm). In practical terms, UV400 lenses block 99 to 100 percent of harmful ultraviolet radiation. This is the highest level of UV protection available in sunglasses and matches the recommendation of the World Health Organisation.
UVA vs UVB: What Is the Difference?
UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburn and are strongest during midday. They affect the outer layers of your skin and eyes. UVA rays are less intense but far more penetrating — they pass through clouds and glass, and they account for roughly 95 percent of UV radiation reaching the Earth's surface. Long-term UVA exposure is linked to cataracts, macular degeneration, and premature ageing of the skin around your eyes. A proper pair of UV400 sunglasses blocks both.
UV400 vs Polarised: Are They the Same?
No. UV protection and polarisation are two completely different things. UV400 refers to blocking ultraviolet radiation — it is a safety feature. Polarisation refers to reducing glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, or roads — it is a comfort feature. You can have UV400 lenses that are not polarised, and polarised lenses that do not have adequate UV protection. Ideally, you want both, but UV protection should always be the priority.
How to Tell If Your Sunglasses Have UV400
Look for a label or sticker that says UV400 or 100 percent UV protection. In the European Union, sunglasses must comply with the EN ISO 12312-1 standard, which requires adequate UV filtering. However, unregulated online sellers and market stalls often sell sunglasses that claim UV protection but do not actually meet the standard. Buying from a reputable brand with clear UV specifications is the safest approach.
Every Frame Studio Pair Is UV400
All Frame Studio sunglasses come with UV400 protection lenses as standard — not as an upgrade or add-on. Whether you choose the round NOVA, the aviator DUNE, the cat-eye LUNA, or any other model, your eyes are fully protected. Combined with premium acetate frames and reinforced hinges, you get safety and style from €49.
