Dry Eye Syndrome in Invercargill: Causes, Symptoms, and What Treatment Looks Like

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common eye conditions seen in optometry practice, yet a significant number of people living with it have never received a formal diagnosis. Many attribute the discomfort to tiredness, ageing or the Southland weather and in part, they are right about the last one. Invercargill's persistent winds, high UV exposure and cold dry winters create conditions that aggravate the ocular surface year-round. Understanding what dry eye syndrome actually is, and what drives it, is the first step toward managing it properly.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eye fails to maintain a stable, healthy tear film across its surface. This happens either because the eye does not produce enough tears, or because the tears it does produce evaporate too quickly. The tear film is a three-layer structure: a mucus base that anchors the film to the eye surface, a watery middle layer that hydrates and nourishes the cornea, and an outer oil layer that slows evaporation. When any part of this system breaks down, the ocular surface becomes exposed, irritated and uncomfortable.

The Two Types of Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome falls into two broad clinical categories, and distinguishing between them matters because each requires a different treatment approach.

Aqueous-deficient dry eye occurs when the lacrimal glands do not produce enough of the watery layer to keep the eye adequately lubricated. Evaporative dry eye, the more common of the two, occurs when tear production is adequate but the oil layer is insufficient, causing tears to evaporate from the eye surface too quickly. The leading cause of evaporative dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a condition in which the small oil-producing glands along the eyelid margins become blocked or produce poor-quality secretions. Inflammation plays a central role in both types, often perpetuating the cycle of symptoms and surface damage regardless of the original cause.

Type Primary cause Key characteristic
Aqueous-deficient Reduced tear production from the lacrimal glands Not enough tears
Evaporative Meibomian gland dysfunction Tears evaporate too quickly

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Dry eye syndrome develops from a combination of physiological, systemic and lifestyle factors rather than a single cause. Age is one of the most consistent risk factors as tear production and meibomian gland function both decline from around 40 years of age. Women are more likely to develop the condition than men, and hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause are a well-established contributor. Contact lens wear alters the tear film and reduces the oxygen supply to the cornea, raising the risk significantly. Several medication categories including antihistamines, some antidepressants and oral contraceptives, can reduce tear secretion as a side effect. Systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren syndrome, rosacea and diabetes are also associated with dry eye.

Risk factors at a glance:

  • Age 40 and over
  • Female sex, particularly during and after menopause
  • Contact lens wear
  • High daily screen time
  • Certain medications including antihistamines and oral contraceptives
  • Systemic conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren syndrome and diabetes
  • Previous eye surgery, including laser refractive procedures
  • Rosacea (associated with meibomian gland dysfunction)

Environmental Triggers in Invercargill and Southland

Invercargill's climate creates specific conditions that place additional stress on the ocular surface. The region's persistent westerly and south-westerly winds accelerate tear evaporation and carry airborne particles that irritate the eye surface. Cold, dry air in winter reduces ambient humidity, and indoor heating compounds this by lowering it further still. New Zealand also has some of the highest ultraviolet radiation levels in the world, and sustained UV exposure affects the health of the conjunctiva and ocular surface over time. Screen use, particularly in lower-humidity indoor environments during the cooler months, reduces blink rate and disrupts the tear film with each hour of use.

Environmental triggers relevant to Southland residents:

  • Persistent westerly winds that accelerate tear evaporation
  • Cold, dry winter air with reduced ambient humidity
  • Indoor heating that lowers humidity further in homes and workplaces
  • High UV radiation year-round, not only in summer
  • Extended screen use combined with low-humidity indoor environments
  • Air conditioning in commercial and office settings

Recognising the Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms vary between people and can fluctuate significantly depending on environment and daily activity, which is why many people do not immediately connect what they are experiencing to a clinical condition. One symptom that frequently surprises people is excessively watery or teary eyes. This is a reflex response to ocular surface irritation and is a well-recognised presentation of dry eye rather than evidence that the eyes are adequately lubricated. Symptoms tend to worsen in windy or low-humidity conditions and during or after prolonged screen use.

Common symptoms include:

  • Gritty or foreign body sensation, as though something is in the eye
  • Burning or stinging
  • Persistent dryness or ocular discomfort
  • Intermittent blurred vision that improves when blinking
  • Watery or excessively teary eyes
  • Eye and eyelid redness
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Discomfort or intolerance with contact lens wear
  • A persistent urge to blink more frequently
  • Eye fatigue during screen use or reading

Is Dry Eye a Chronic Condition?

Dry eye syndrome is typically a chronic condition that requires ongoing management rather than a single course of treatment that resolves it permanently. This does not mean symptoms cannot be well controlled. For most people, appropriate treatment produces significant and sustained relief. A useful parallel is hay fever or high blood pressure: both are managed over time rather than cured, and both respond well to the right clinical approach. Without treatment, dry eye tends to progress. The inflammation that drives it can worsen over time, leading to greater ocular surface damage, reduced contact lens tolerance and, in more significant cases, corneal involvement. Early assessment and consistent management are the clinical reasons to act rather than wait.

When to See an Optometrist

Self-managing dry eye with over-the-counter drops is reasonable for mild, infrequent symptoms. Professional assessment becomes important when symptoms persist, worsen or begin to affect daily life. An optometrist can identify the type of dry eye present, assess the health of the meibomian glands and ocular surface, and develop a treatment plan that addresses the cause rather than just the symptoms, something a trip to the pharmacy cannot provide.

Consider booking an appointment if you notice:

  • Eye discomfort or grittiness that has persisted for more than a few weeks
  • Symptoms that interfere with work, driving or screen use
  • Contact lens discomfort that is worsening or making wear increasingly difficult
  • Blurred vision that does not resolve by blinking
  • Increased sensitivity to light or wind
  • A significant change in the frequency or intensity of symptoms

Talk to Lobb Optical

The team at Lobb Optical has experience assessing and managing dry eye syndrome for patients across Invercargill and Southland. A consultation starts with a thorough examination of your tear film and eye surface, giving us a clear picture of what is driving your symptoms and what treatment will suit you best. Book an eye examination today.


Back-to-School Eye Health: What Invercargill Parents Need to Know Before Term Starts

Back-to-School Eye Health: What Invercargill Parents Need to Know Before Term Starts

Early detection of vision problems can prevent months of unnecessary struggle in the classroom. Many children do not realise their vision is unclear because they have nothing to compare it to, which means symptoms often go unnoticed until learning is already affected. Understanding the warning signs and knowing when to schedule an eye exam helps ensure your child starts the school year with the visual clarity they need to learn confidently.

Early Signs of Vision Issues in Children

Children with vision problems rarely complain about blurry vision because they assume everyone sees the way they do. Instead, vision issues often show up as changes in behaviour, school performance or physical symptoms that parents might not immediately connect to eye health.

Common signs include difficulty concentrating on schoolwork, frequent headaches after reading or screen use, and holding books or devices unusually close to their face. You might notice your child squinting when looking at the whiteboard, rubbing their eyes often throughout the day, or avoiding reading and homework more than usual. Some children lose their place while reading, skip lines or show frustration with tasks that require sustained visual focus.

Younger children may complain of tiredness after school or show less interest in activities that require detailed vision work. If your child tilts their head to see better, closes one eye when reading, or sits very close to the television, these behaviours can indicate an underlying vision issue that warrants professional assessment.

How Uncorrected Vision Affects Learning and School Performance

Clear vision is essential for nearly every aspect of classroom learning, from reading the board to completing written work. Children with uncorrected vision problems must work harder to process visual information, which leads to faster fatigue, reduced concentration and slower progress in reading and writing.

When a child cannot see clearly, they may avoid participation in class, miss important visual cues from teachers, or fall behind in subjects that rely heavily on reading. The constant strain of trying to compensate for poor vision can result in headaches, eye discomfort and a reluctance to engage with schoolwork. Over time, this can affect their confidence and willingness to participate in learning activities.

Vision clarity also influences hand-eye coordination, which is important for writing, sports and other physical activities at school. Children who struggle to see clearly may appear clumsy, have messy handwriting, or show less interest in playground games that require tracking moving objects.

When Children Should Have a Full Eye Exam

Regular eye exams are recommended for all children, even when no obvious vision problems are present. Early detection of refractive errors, eye coordination issues and other conditions allows for timely intervention before school performance is affected.

Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam between the ages of three and four, before starting school. A follow-up exam is recommended before beginning primary school to ensure vision is developing normally and to identify any issues that could impact early learning. During the primary school years, children should have their eyes examined every two years, or more frequently if concerns arise or if a family history of vision problems exists.

Back-to-school in late January and early February is an ideal time to assess any visual changes that may have developed during the previous year. Growth spurts, increased screen time during holidays and the demands of a new school year can all influence vision, making this a practical checkpoint for children's eye exams before term starts.

Teenagers also benefit from regular eye exams, particularly as academic workload increases and screen use becomes more intensive. Annual or biennial exams help ensure vision keeps pace with the demands of secondary school study.

Local Factors Affecting Invercargill Children's Eye Health

School holidays often bring changes in routine that can affect developing eyes, particularly increased screen time from gaming, streaming and social media. Extended periods of close-up screen work can strain the visual system in children, especially when combined with reduced outdoor activity during winter months or poor summer weather.

Outdoor time plays an important role in healthy vision development and may help slow the progression of myopia in children. Invercargill families have good access to parks, beaches and outdoor spaces during summer, and encouraging children to spend time outside before school starts supports both general wellbeing and eye health. Natural light exposure and distance viewing give developing eyes a break from the constant near work that dominates screen-based activities.

Balancing screen use with outdoor time during the final weeks of the school holidays helps children transition back into routines that support long-term vision health. Simple changes such as setting time limits on devices and prioritising outdoor play can reduce eye strain before the demands of the school year resume.

Early Intervention and Modern Treatment Options

Early intervention for vision problems such as myopia can make a significant difference in how a child's vision develops over time. When detected early, refractive errors and other conditions can be managed with approaches tailored to each child's needs, reducing the impact on daily life and learning.

Prescription eyewear remains the most common and effective solution for correcting vision in children, providing immediate clarity for reading, writing and classroom activities. Modern frames are durable, comfortable and designed specifically for active children, making glasses a practical choice for school-aged students.

For children developing myopia, myopia management options are now available that aim to slow progression rather than simply correct vision. These approaches involve professional guidance and regular monitoring to assess changes and adjust treatment as needed. Early consultation with an optometrist allows parents to understand which options may suit their child and what level of intervention is appropriate.

Self-diagnosis or delaying professional assessment can mean missed opportunities for treatment when it is most effective. A comprehensive eye exam provides clarity on your child's current vision status and any steps that may benefit their long-term eye health.

Book a children's eye exam at Lobb Optical

If you have noticed changes in your child's behaviour, school performance or visual habits, or if it has been more than two years since their last eye exam, contact Lobb Optical to schedule an appointment. Our team provides comprehensive eye exams for children in a supportive environment, with advice tailored to Invercargill families.


Childhood Myopia: What Causes It and How Early Intervention Helps

Childhood Myopia: What Causes It and How Early Intervention Helps

Myopia, or short-sightedness, is a vision condition where distant objects appear blurred while close objects remain clear, and understanding it early helps Invercargill families protect their children's long-term eye health. The condition typically develops during childhood and can progress as children grow, which means early detection and management play an important role in reducing the impact on daily life and future vision. More children across Southland are developing myopia at younger ages, making it essential for local parents to recognise the causes and know when professional assessment is needed.

Why Myopia Is Becoming More Common in Invercargill and Across Southland

The rise in childhood myopia across New Zealand reflects broader environmental and lifestyle changes that affect how children use their vision throughout the day. Increased 

screen time for schoolwork, entertainment and social connection has shifted the balance away from distance viewing and outdoor activity, both of which support healthy vision development in growing eyes.

Southland's climate means children often spend more time indoors during colder months, reducing exposure to natural daylight that helps regulate eye growth. Study patterns have also intensified, with more homework, reading and close-up tasks starting earlier in a child's education. These factors combine to create visual environments that favour near work over distance viewing, contributing to higher myopia rates.

This trend is not unique to Invercargill, but local families face specific challenges around balancing indoor routines with outdoor time, particularly during winter when daylight hours are shorter and weather limits time spent outside. Recognising these patterns helps parents make informed choices about daily habits that support vision health.

The Main Causes of Childhood Myopia

Childhood myopia usually develops from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors rather than a single cause. Children with one or both parents who have myopia are at higher risk of developing the condition themselves, though family history alone does not determine whether a child will become short-sighted.

Prolonged near work is one of the most significant environmental contributors to myopia development and progression. Activities such as reading, writing, using tablets and gaming require sustained focus at close distances, which places continuous demand on the visual system. When this near work dominates a child's day without adequate breaks for distance viewing, it can influence how the eye grows and develops.

Limited exposure to natural daylight is another key factor in myopia development. Time spent outdoors, particularly in bright natural light, appears to have a protective effect on vision and may help slow myopia progression. Invercargill children who spend most of their time indoors, whether due to weather, screen habits or structured activities, miss out on the benefits that outdoor time provides for developing eyes.

The age at which myopia first appears also matters. Children who develop myopia earlier tend to experience faster progression and reach higher levels of short-sightedness by adulthood, which can increase the risk of eye health complications later in life.


How Early Intervention Can Help Slow Myopia Progression

Early assessment and intervention can help reduce the speed at which myopia progresses, giving children better long-term vision outcomes and reducing potential risks associated with high myopia in adulthood. When myopia is detected early through comprehensive eye exams, optometrists can track changes over time and recommend management strategies tailored to each child's needs and lifestyle.

Children whose myopia is managed from an early stage often experience slower progression compared to those who receive standard vision correction alone. This does not reverse existing myopia, but it can help limit how much worse it becomes during the critical years of eye development. Slowing progression means children may need less frequent prescription changes and may avoid reaching higher levels of myopia that carry greater long-term health implications.

Intervention works best when combined with broader lifestyle adjustments, such as increased outdoor time, reduced prolonged screen use and good visual hygiene during study periods. Professional guidance helps parents understand which changes will have the most impact for their individual child and how to balance practical realities with evidence-based recommendations.

Myopia Management Pathways Available Through Lobb Optical

Several myopia management options are now available that aim to slow progression rather than simply correct vision, and each approach works differently depending on the child's age, lifestyle and rate of progression. Treatment selection requires a thorough assessment and ongoing monitoring to ensure the chosen method remains appropriate as the child grows.

Orthokeratology, often called Ortho-K, involves wearing specially designed contact lenses overnight that gently reshape the front surface of the eye while the child sleeps. The lenses are removed each morning, and the reshaping effect provides clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or daytime contact lenses. This drug-free and non-surgical option suits active children and teenagers who prefer not to wear correction during the day.

Daily soft contact lenses designed specifically for myopia control use optical designs that help slow myopia progression while providing clear daytime vision. These lenses are comfortable, easy to use and suitable for children aged eight and above who are capable of following proper hygiene routines. They are worn during the day and removed at night, making them a practical choice for children who prefer daytime lens wear.

Advanced spectacle lenses provide clear vision while helping to control eye growth through specially designed optical features. These lenses are ideal for younger children and offer a simple, safe and effective way to manage myopia progression without the need for contact lens wear or additional treatments.

Low-dose atropine eye drops may be prescribed to help slow myopia progression in some children, often used in combination with other treatments. They provide a simple, non-invasive daily routine and can be an effective part of a broader management strategy when recommended by an optometrist.

Combination therapy involves using two or more treatments together, such as overnight lenses with atropine drops, to provide enhanced control of myopia progression. This approach is tailored to individual needs and may be appropriate for children experiencing rapid progression or those who require additional support beyond a single treatment method.

Each pathway requires professional assessment, fitting and regular follow-up to track effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed. Children's eye exams at Lobb Optical include detailed measurements and discussions about which management approach best fits your child's individual circumstances and your family's preferences.

When Parents Should Act

Parents should seek a professional eye exam when they notice signs such as squinting at distant objects, sitting close to screens, difficulty reading the whiteboard at school or complaints of blurred vision. Children with a family history of myopia should have regular eye exams from an early age, even when no obvious symptoms are present, as early detection allows for timely intervention when it is most effective.

Age-based guidance recommends comprehensive eye exams before starting school, with follow-up assessments every one to two years during primary school years. Children who already have myopia or who show signs of rapid progression may need more frequent monitoring to track changes and adjust management strategies accordingly.

Waiting until a child struggles noticeably at school or reports vision problems can mean missed opportunities for early intervention. Many children do not realise their distance vision is unclear because they have adapted to their visual environment, which is why proactive screening matters even when children seem to be coping well.

Parents who notice their child's prescription changing rapidly, requiring new glasses every year or more frequently, should discuss myopia management options with an optometrist. Rapid progression during childhood is a clear indicator that active management may help protect long-term vision and reduce the risk of complications associated with high myopia in later life.

Book a children's eye exam in Invercargill

If you are concerned about your child's vision, have noticed changes in how they see distant objects, or want to understand their myopia risk, contact Lobb Optical to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our team provides detailed assessments and clear guidance tailored to Invercargill families.


Sunny Days

Sunny Days, Safe Eyes: Kids’ Prescription Sunglasses

Sunny Days, Safe Eyes: Kids’ Prescription Sunglasses

Kids love being outdoors — whether they’re exploring the backyard, playing sport, or heading out on family adventures. But just like their skin, children’s eyes need extra protection from the sun, wind, and other outdoor elements. At Lobb Optical, we understand how important it is to keep young eyes safe and healthy. That’s why we recommend prescription sunglasses for kids — not just for style, but for long-term vision protection and comfort.

Here’s why they matter:


1. UV Protection for Developing Eyes

Children’s eyes are more sensitive to UV rays than adults’, which increases the risk of long-term eye damage. Prescription sunglasses with full UV protection act like sunscreen for their eyes, helping to prevent conditions that can develop later in life.


2. Clear Vision for School and Play

If your child wears glasses, prescription sunglasses ensure they can see clearly both indoors and outdoors. From the playground to the sports field, they’ll enjoy sharp, comfortable vision in bright light — no squinting, no strain.


3. Less Glare, More Fun

Reflections from water, sand, or pavement can make it hard for kids to see clearly. Polarised lenses help reduce glare, so children can focus on having fun and stay comfortable even in bright sunshine.


4. Protection from Wind and Dust

From biking to the park to windy beach days, sunglasses shield young eyes from dust, debris, and irritants that can cause discomfort or distraction.


5. Durable and Designed for Kids

Kids need eyewear that keeps up with them. Our range of kids’ sports and lifestyle sunglasses are lightweight, durable, and available in fun, colourful styles they’ll love to wear — making protection effortless and stylish.


Visit us at Lobb Optical to explore our selection of children’s prescription sunglasses — made for clear vision, safe play, and all-day comfort.


Clarity Meets Comfort with HOYA Vision Care Lenses

Clarity Meets Comfort with HOYA Vision Care Lenses

At Lobb Optical, we’re passionate about delivering the highest standard in eye care and vision solutions. That’s why we’re excited to announce our new partnership with HOYA Vision Care, a global leader in innovative lens technology.

When it comes to eyewear, lenses are just as important as frames — often even more so. HOYA Vision Care is one of the most trusted names in lens technology worldwide. With a legacy of research and innovation spanning decades, HOYA offers lenses that cater to people of all ages, lifestyles, and visual needs.


Why HOYA?

HOYA designs lenses for all ages and eye health needs, combining advanced technology with everyday practicality and comfort.

  • Kids & Teens:MiYOSMART lenses are specially developed to help manage myopia (short-sightedness) in children, supporting healthy vision development.
  • Adults: A wide range of single-vision and digital-friendly lenses help reduce eye strain and provide exceptional clarity for modern life.
  • Mature Wearers: Advanced progressive lenses ensure seamless, natural vision at every distance — near, far, and in between.
  • Everyone: Photochromic (light-adaptive), polarised sun lenses, and durable anti-reflective coatings provide protection and comfort for all environments.

With HOYA’s innovative coatings that resist scratches, smudges, glare, and UV damage, these lenses are built for clarity, comfort, and durability — every day.


Decades of Innovation in Vision Care

For more than 80 years, HOYA Vision Care has been shaping the future of eyewear. Their focus on research, precision, and innovation has set the global standard for optical performance.

Whether you’re a child developing healthy visual habits, a professional spending long hours on digital devices, or someone seeking seamless near-to-far focus, HOYA has a tailored lens solution for your unique needs.

At Lobb Optical, we’re proud to offer HOYA lenses — helping you see clearly, live fully, and enjoy the world with sharper vision and greater comfort.


Glasses- not just for reading!

Glasses- not just for reading!

Glasses have undergone a remarkable transformation—from simple vision aids to dynamic style accessories and expressions of personality. While they still help us see better, today’s eyewear does so much more. Here’s why glasses are far more than just reading tools:

A Style Staple

Gone are the days when glasses were viewed as purely functional. Modern eyewear is a fashion essential, offering endless combinations of frames, hues, and silhouettes. Whether you're dressing up or keeping it casual, the right pair can instantly elevate your ensemble and bring out your signature style.

Your Personality, Amplified

The glasses you wear say a lot about you. Sleek metal frames might signal a minimalist mindset, while bold, chunky styles can suggest creativity and confidence. Whether you lean toward retro chic or contemporary edge, your choice of glasses helps the world see who you are—before you say a word.

Tech-Time Allies

With digital screens becoming a constant part of our daily routine, our eyes need extra care. Enter blue light-filtering glasses: they don’t just protect your vision, they can help to reduce digital fatigue and keep your eyes feeling fresher, longer. A smart choice for both work and relaxation.

Confidence in Every Frame

Wearing glasses can be empowering. They frame your face in a way that enhances your features and can even help project confidence and competence. For many, glasses offer a sense of reassurance and presence, blending comfort with self-assurance.


Whether you're reading, working, or simply showing off your style, glasses have become a dynamic part of how we live and present ourselves. From utility to identity, they’re a small accessory with a big impact—so why not explore what they can do for you?


See the Potential – Why Eye Tests Are Key to Your Child’s Success

See the Potential – Why Eye Tests Are Key to Your Child’s Success

As parents, we're committed to providing our children with the best possible foundation for success. Yet, one aspect that is often overlooked is their vision. Did you know that undiagnosed eye problems can significantly impact a child's development, both academically and socially?

At Lobb Optical, we are dedicated to ensuring your child's visual well-being. With school holidays just around the corner, it's an opportune time to schedule your child's comprehensive eye test. Let's dive into the significance of this crucial step:

  • Unveiling hidden issues:Pediatric eye exams can uncover common vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and strabismus (crossed eyes). Identifying these issues early can prevent academic struggles and promote proper eye development.
  • Amblyopia detection:Amblyopia, often called "lazy eye," can be treated most effectively when detected in childhood. Timely intervention can help your child develop strong, healthy vision in both eyes.
  • Binocular vision skills:Testing binocular vision skills is essential. Poor coordination between the eyes can affect depth perception, making sports and other physical activities challenging.
  • Digital eye strain awareness:In today's digital age, children are exposed to screens more than ever before. We evaluate their eyes for digital eye strain symptoms, ensuring that they can comfortably engage in both screen-based and traditional learning.
  • Color vision assessment:Identifying color vision deficiencies early on is crucial, as this can influence educational activities and career choices later in life.

A comprehensive eye exam during the school holidays can provide invaluable insights into your child's visual health and set the stage for a successful academic journey.

Reach out to usorbook an appointment onlineand secure your child's visual future today.

Protecting your child's eyesight is an investment in their future.


Considering a new pair of sunglasses? What are the benefits of buying from an optometrist.

Considering a new pair of sunglasses? What are the benefits of buying from an optometrist.

Summer is ending, but don’t forget that your eyes still need protection from those UV (ultraviolet) rays. Sure, you can find sunglasses just about anywhere these days, whether it’s in stores or online, but here are some good reasons why buying your sunglasses from an optometrist like Lobb Opticalis a smart choice.

1: Care and Expertise

At Lobb Optical we take the health of our patients very seriously. Our experienced andhighly trained optometrists are knowledgeable and experienced in assessing your eye health needs. They will recommend sunglasses that provide optimal protection against harmful UV radiation. Whether you require assistance selecting the ideal lens tint, deciding between polarized or non-polarized options, or choosing UV filters suited to your lifestyle, you will receive expert guidance to help you make an informed decision that balances both style and the protection of your eye health.

2. Prescription perfection and adjustments

We supply sunglasses that are tailor-made just for your prescription and specific vison requirement needs. We will incorporate your prescription into the frames, ensuring your vision stays clear and comfortable. We’ll take your measurements, consider the lens curvature, and tweak the frame to fit your face shape.

We stock lenses from the ZEISS, who manufacture premium sun protection and outdoor lens solutions. The range of fashionable and functional lens colours and treatments available from ZEISS covers special outdoor applications. Additionally, they provide customers with maximum sun protection and enhanced visual contrast.

3. Quality eyewear

One of the best parts of purchasing sunglasses from an optometry practice is the guarantee of quality and authenticity. We stock quality brands, giving you a range of sunglasses that meet industry UV protection standards and are crafted from durable materials. Investing in quality sunglasses not only protects your eye health but also ensures you will have them for years to come.

4. After care service

At Lobb Optical, we take pride in our after care service. You can pop by the store anytime for free adjustments, tightening, or a thorough cleaning for no extra cost.

This summer, don’t settle for anything less than the best for your eyes. Stop Lobb Optical for all your sunglasses needs. 


Protect your vision outdoors

Protect your vision outdoors

Whether you're walking, cycling, or playing tennis, outdoor sports expose your eyes to harmful elements like UV rays, dust, and glare. Prescription sunglasses are an essential item to protect your eyes, improving your performance, and preventing long-term damage. Here's why they're a smart choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

  1. UV ProtectionPrescription sunglasses block harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration. UV-blocking lenses are especially important for sports like skiing or mountain biking where exposure to higher UV levels is common.
  2. Clear Vision for Better PerformanceCustomized prescription lenses ensure clear vision, whether you need correction for near-sightedness or astigmatism. This helps you stay focused, react quicker, and perform better, free from the distraction of blurry sight.
  3. Reduced GlarePolarized lenses reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water or snow, making it easier to see and focus. This reduces eye strain and enhances visibility, allowing you to maintain concentration in bright conditions.
  4. Protection Against Wind and DebrisPrescription sunglasses not only block UV rays but also protect your eyes from wind, dust, and other irritants, helping to prevent discomfort and distractions during physical activity.
  5. Durability and StyleSports prescription sunglasses are made from durable, impact-resistant materials like polycarbonate, ensuring they withstand outdoor activities. They are lightweight and stylish, so you can find a pair that suits both your vision needs and personal style.

Visit Lobb Optical to find the perfect pair of prescription sunglasses that offer both protection and comfort in any environment.


Eye health and wellbeing

Eye health is a vital aspect of overall wellbeing, yet it often takes a back seat in our healthcare routines.

As optometrists, we've witnessed the profound impact that proactive eye care can have on one's quality of life. Regular eye check-ups are the cornerstone of maintaining optimal eye health.

Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. This underscores the importance of routine screenings to detect potential issues early and prevent further damage.

At Lobb Optical, we're committed to raising awareness about the significance of general eye health. By prioritising regular eye examinations, individuals can take proactive steps to safeguard their vision and address any underlying issues promptly. Our team of experienced optometrists is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care services tailored to each individual's needs.

Don't wait until you notice changes in your vision – book an eye test with us today and take the first step towards preserving your vision for years to come.