1. Reading in Dim Light Damages Your Eyesight
Verdict: Myth
Neglecting to turn on a lamp while engrossed in a good book as dusk sets in won't result in permanent vision impairment. It’s a total vibe and we’ve all been there! The more probable outcome is eye fatigue, which is typically resolved with rest. So if you plan on doing it, don’t forget your beauty sleep.
2. Sunlight is Harmful to Your Eyes
Verdict: Fact
UV rays pose a real threat. Excessive exposure can cause gradual, often unnoticed, ocular deterioration, potentially leading to irreversible damage. No matter whether you're sunbathing or hiking on a cloudy day, safeguarding your eyes from UV rays is essential. Luckily, we have a variety of stylish and comfortable sunnies to choose from. Why would you pass up a chance to celebrate your personal style?
3. Sitting Close to the TV Degrades Eyesight
Verdict: Myth
This ever-repeated advice from times past is completely baseless! It may cause eye strain or dryness, but it doesn't contribute to vision loss.
However, it’s important to note that if your child usually watches TV from a close distance, it might suggest a need for glasses, indicating a possible initial optometrist visit.
4. Eye Exams are Only Needed When Vision Problems Arise
Verdict: Myth
Several ocular issues can progress unnoticed until they advance significantly — and we want to avoid that. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends regular eye exams, ideally yearly for adults, and more frequently for children and the elderly.
5. Glasses or Contact Lenses Hasten Vision Loss
Verdict: Myth
Contrary to popular belief, eyewear improves vision! In fact, prescription lenses can slow down the progression of certain conditions, extending the duration of healthy vision.
6. Carrots Enhance Eyesight
Verdict: Partly True
Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like carrots, clementines, blueberries, and broccoli, high in vitamins A, C, and E, help shield the corneas and crystalline lenses, aid in preventing cataracts, and combat eye fatigue. All good things!
While these nutrients maintain eye health, let’s keep in mind that they don't affect conditions like myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia.
7. Laser Pointers Pose a Threat to Eyes
Verdict: Fact
While rarely powerful enough to cause significant damage, a laser beam directed at the eye could potentially cause injuries.
8. Parents' Optical Health Issues Will Be Inherited
Verdict: Partly True
While genetics play a significant role in eye diseases, they aren't a guaranteed predictor of future health concerns. Myopic parents can have a child with perfect vision, and vice versa.
9. Reading Fine Print Degrades Vision
Verdict: Myth
The most likely consequence is eye fatigue, which dissipates after rest. Now you have no more excuses for skipping the terms and conditions!
10. Wearing Incorrect Prescription Lenses Harms Eyesight
Verdict: Myth
While it can cause discomfort and eye strain, your eyesight will remain the same. Nonetheless, we always advise using the prescription from your eye health professional for optimal vision.
11. All Sunglasses Offer Equal Protection
Verdict: Myth
Although they all might look stylish, only sunglasses bearing the UV400 or CE mark provide UV protection. Rest assured, all BonLook sunglasses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.
12. Extensive Screen Time Damages Eyes
Verdict: Myth
While there are numerous reasons to limit screen time, permanent vision damage isn't one of them. Blue light from digital screens can lead to eye strain and dryness, which can be alleviated by regular breaks and simply blinking more often.
Remember the 20-20-20 rule when spending long hours in front of your computer: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to gaze at a point 20 feet (ca. 6 m) away. Your eyes will thank you for it!