The unseen damage of UV

Zeiss has launched its new UVProtect technology, providing full ultraviolet (UV) protection in all clear Zeiss lenses.

“This is the first time that sunglass-level UV protection is available in standard clear lenses, giving spectacle wearers complete protection for their eyes and surrounding area,” said Hilke Fitzsimons, general manager of Zeiss Vision Australia and New Zealand, adding the technology establishes a new standard of care in the eye care industry.

The World Health Organisation recommends 400 nanometres (nm) as the standard for UV eye protection (the required level in sunglasses), however in clear lenses, the industry considers protection up to 380nm (UV380) acceptable, so lens clarity isn’t compromised, said Zeiss. “The introduction of Zeiss UVProtect technology bridges a critical gap in UV protection between 380 and 400nm… responsible for exposing around 80% of spectacle wearers to as much as 40% of the most harmful rays in the spectrum.”

Although some UV absorbing lens dyes do, in fact, block UV up to 400nm in clear lenses, Zeiss said UV dyes are often applied inconsistently, resulting in problems with lens performance and aesthetics. Zeiss said its UVProtect technology can modify clear lens polymers for full UVR protection without altering the look of the lens. The company also said the UVProtect technology will last for the life of the lens, since it is embedded into the lens material. “Zeiss has succeeded in transforming clear plastic lens material so that they absorb the entire UV spectrum without compromising lens clarity.”

Zeiss has not patented its UVProtect technology so that other lens companies can use it in their products.