Eyewear myths and legends around the world

Glasses, which are essential tools for a gigantic number of people around the world, are often surrounded by myths and legends. Some claims can dissuade people from wearing glasses, or indeed from looking after their vision properly.
‍
In this blog, we're going to debunk some of the myths we commonly hear about glasses.

Wearing glasses weakens vision

Many people think that wearing glasses makes vision weaker because the eyes become "lazy" because they have no more effort to make. In reality, vision-correcting glasses help the eyes to concentrate better! Wearing glasses doesn't have a negative effect; on the contrary, it prevents eyestrain and, in particular, headaches caused by imperfect vision.
It reminds me of the armies, in the days before the arrival of the railroads, who were forbidden to take the train for fear that a soldier who didn't use his legs to get to the battlefield would go limp... something to think about

Children who wear glasses become dependent on them for life

It's true that the majority of children who wear glasses when they're young continue to need them into adulthood, but this isn't always the case. Sometimes, certain vision problems in children can be temporary or change over time. As in number 1, wearing glasses during childhood does not influence the progression of a visual defect, and can even correct certain vision problems.

Off-the-shelf reading glasses replace real glasses

Reading glasses sold in pharmacies and other outlets are not suitable for everyone. They're just a quick fix.
‍
They have a fixed power and don't take into account the differences between the two eyes, whether in power, pupillary distance or the presence of astigmatism. A personalized prescription is always preferable.

The thicker the lenses, the better they are

The thickness of lenses does not determine their effectiveness. Today, there are higher-index lenses that enable extremely precise correction with very thin lenses.

Sunglasses are only useful on sunny days

Quality sunglasses not only protect against UV rays, but also against glare and reflections. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause eye damage. Wearing sunglasses outdoors, whatever the weather, is right and good for your eyes.

Watching TV too closely damages the eyes

Watching TV up close causes eyestrain, but it doesn't cause permanent damage to vision. It's always a good idea to take regular breaks to rest your eyes, but there's no evidence that it does.

Phone screens damage the eyes

Small screens cause digital eye strain. This causes dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and neck and shoulder pain.
‍
Short-wave, high-energy blue light disrupts circadian rhythms, making it difficult to fall asleep, but does not appear to damage the eyes. Some studies suggest that the use of these small screens exacerbates myopia, especially in children.
‍
To minimize the risks, there's a rule that should be put forward: the 20-20-20 rule.
‍
That's 20 minutes of screen time - an object 20 feet (6 meters) away - for 20 seconds.
Think about the brightness of the screen, and avoid using it in the dark.

Carrots improve vision

Carrots are indeed rich in vitamin A, essential for eye health. But this does not correct vision problems. A healthy diet will always contribute to eye health, but it's still no substitute for the eye care of glasses.

Glasses prevent sport

There are many options for athletes who need vision correction. Specially designed sports glasses, contact lenses and even refractive surgeries that weaken the eye, so no boxing 
You know many professional athletes who wear glasses or contacts without affecting their performance.

Corrective eyewear protects against UV rays

Not all glasses protect against UV rays. It's the coating applied, or not, to the lens that provides such protection. Make sure your lenses are coated, or wear a sun clip or corrected sunglasses.

Glasses are timeless

Glasses are also a fashion accessory. Many styles and designs are available to suit your outfit or personality. As eyewear trends evolve, it's possible to find frames that are both functional and stylish.

Glasses are a valuable tool for correcting vision and protecting the eyes, but they are surrounded by many myths. It's important to get the right information and consult eye care professionals to get the best solutions for your eye health. We hope to encourage a better understanding and more judicious use of glasses, and Microrep remains at your service to repair and renovate your frames with superior quality.