Change your sunglasses every TWO years

Sunglasses should be replaced at least every two years, scientists warned today        

Rays from the sun damage lenses over time - meaning they gradually let more UV light through and provide less protection.
Without adequate UV filters, the eye is exposed - and the damage can cause long-term, irreversible harm to vision.

Brazilian researchers have now called for standards that test the quality of sunglasses to be revised, so that safe limits for the filters can be established.
They say a new test would guarantee sunglasses were safe to wear for a period of two years.
Exposure to sunlight varies across the world, but tropical countries have the highest amounts as UV levels are extremely high in summer and remain high in the winter.

Therefore, sunglasses worn in the southern hemisphere may need replacing more often than in those worn in the northern half.
Lenses may also break more easily a result of consistent exposure to sunlight, experts say.
And wearing sunglasses which don't offer proper protection can cause oedema - distorted vision from a swollen eye.

Meet Coco and Breezy, the Designers Behind Demi Lovato's Favorite Sunglasses Brand

Twin sisters Coco and Breezy Dotson are known as street style stars, eyewear designers, dancers, and DJs — and that’s just the beginning. The Dotson girls have captivated the world with their one-of-a-kind style and unique vision. Now, at 26 years old, the sisters are lauded for their genuine personalities, great energy, and, of course, impeccable fashion sense.

Although they began designing their own eyewear when they were 16, it didn’t just start as a cute way to accessorize – it was their way of surviving. “Growing up in Minnesota, we lived in the suburbs where a lot of people thought we were weird, or we really stood out. Some people would stare at us or laugh at us, and we did get bullied. So, we always wore sunglasses to block our eyes to avoid making eye contact from the people who didn’t understand us. It gave us this level of confidence we never had,” Breezy says.

Prince isn’t the only one to take notice though of their talent. Foot Locker’s new athleisure store SIX:02 tapped the girls to design an exclusive line of eyewear, which came out this summer. “They’re so fashion-forward and they are at a low price point, but still such great quality because they are hand-made,” Breezy says.

They’re also stepping even further outside the box, designing eyewear inspired by Twizzlers and Jolly Ranchers for Hershey’s. That collection debuted in July. “That’s what our brand stands for: breaking the rules, we create our own rules, and doing these things with Hershey’s and Foot Locker really shows that about us.”