Essilor developed the E‑SPF® index in 2012 as a global index to rate the overall UV protection of a lens and help consumers choose appropriate protection through transparent or sun lenses. It follows an impartial measurement protocol which has been validated by independent third parties. Essilor also recently completed a research project with the Texas Eye Research and Technology Center to evaluate the amount of UV radiation a typical person could be exposed to in everyday life. These measures demonstrated the importance of UV reflected off the back side of an anti-reflective lens, which can represent up to 50% of total UV rays received by the eye.

Repeated UV exposure can cause long-term cumulative damage, contributing for example to premature aging of the eye and early-onset cataracts. Eyewear providing full UV protection may help prevent this risk. Essilor aims to expand the use of its E-SPF index to help consumers make an informed choice and give themselves the best possible protection for their eyes.

For more information www.espf.com