Red, White & Velvet!

The Fourth of July is an all-American holiday typically celebrated with barbecues, beach trips, fireworks and A LOT of sunshine! But just because it’s a holiday, it doesn’t mean that the UV rays are any less harmful. So for everyone who is headed off on a weekend getaway, or even just hanging out by the pool, Velvet wants to make sure that your eyes are covered! The same way that you would never lay out in the sun without sunscreen, you should NEVER go out in the sun without sunglasses. The sun gives off powerful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause some serious damage your precious eyes. Temporary damages consist of side effects such as swollen or red eyes and hypersensitivity to light, but the long term effects are MUCH worse. Years of failing to protect your eyes from UV rays can eventually lead to eye or eyelid cancer, crow’s feet and fine lines. With all of this in mind, make sure you don’t forget to bring your sunglasses wherever this long weekend may take you!

Happy 4th of July, everyone!  #GetYourVelvetOn

June 27th – National Sunglasses Day

June 27th is National Sunglasses Day!

Every single day, millions of Americans make the decision NOT to wear sunglasses or any other form of ultraviolet (UV)-protective eyewear. In fact, statistics show that although 75 percent of Americans would identify themselves as “concerned” about UV eye exposure, only 31 percent actually wear sunglasses every time they go outside. And although this decision may seem harmless, the truth of the matter is that going outside without sunglasses is actually EXTREMELY dangerous!

Often times, people associate UV radiation with sunburns and skin cancer – but what about all of the other harmful effects? Just the same way that UV rays damage exposed skin cells; they can also burn unprotected eyes. Forgetting your sunglasses for just one day can actually cause immediate damage to your eyes. Temporary damage consists of side effects such as swollen or red eyes and hypersensitivity to light, but the long term effects are much, much worse.  Years of failing to protect your eyes from UV rays can eventually lead to eye or eyelid cancer, crow’s feet and fine lines.

National Sunglasses Day is observed annually on June 27th. It is a day that is not only meant to be observed, but also to remind people just how important UV protection really is. You wouldn’t go outside without sunscreen on – so don’t go outside without your sunglasses, either! Get your Velvet Sunglasses ON!