Blue Fin Vision® Featured in The Irish News: Five Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Sunglasses
- Posted
- Medically Reviewed by: Mr Mfazo Hove, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: August 18, 2026
- Last Updated: August 18, 2026
TL;DR: The Irish News has featured advice from Mr Mfazo Hove, consultant ophthalmic surgeon and founder of Blue Fin Vision®, on five mistakes to avoid when purchasing sunglasses. His guidance helps readers look beyond tint, price and style to check the UV protection, fit and coverage that sunglasses provide.
Looking Beyond Style
Sunglasses are often chosen according to appearance, but The Irish News highlights several practical factors that can be more important for long-term eye protection.
Mr Hove identifies five purchasing mistakes that may leave the eyes and surrounding skin more exposed to ultraviolet light.
Relying on Lens Darkness
One of the most common assumptions is that a darker tint offers greater protection. Mr Hove explains that dark lenses reduce visible brightness but do not necessarily block UVA and UVB rays.
“The darkness of the sunglasses itself doesn’t give you any idea of the UV coverage.”
UV protection therefore needs to be checked separately rather than inferred from the appearance of the lenses.
Overlooking UV400 Markings
A UV400 marking provides useful information about the protection offered by the lenses. Mr Hove advises checking the sunglasses, label and packaging, as the marking may not appear directly on the frame.
He also suggests asking an optician or shop assistant to show only sunglasses that meet the required protection level.
Assuming Expensive Means Better
Price is not a reliable measure of UV performance. Expensive designer sunglasses may prioritise appearance, while less costly frames can still offer suitable protection.
The important point is to confirm that the lenses provide the necessary UV filtering rather than assuming that a recognised brand guarantees it.
Accepting an Incorrect Fit
Sunglasses that sit poorly can allow light to enter around the lenses. Mr Hove explains that the frame should sit securely while helping to shield the eyelids, the whites of the eyes and the skin surrounding them.
An optometrist may be able to adjust frames that slide down, pinch or sit unevenly, provided they are not damaged.
Choosing Insufficient Coverage
Mr Hove recommends examining how much of the face the sunglasses cover. Larger lenses can shield more of the upper and lower eyelids, while wraparound frames can reduce light entering from the sides.
This can be particularly useful where light reflects from snow, water or other bright surfaces.
Read the Full Coverage
The Irish News: 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Sunglasses, published 18 August 2026.
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