HEAL TH by Sarah Stacey

WITH THE SUN GETTING HIGHER AND STRONGER, as summer comes in, don’t forget about protecting your eyes as well as your skin, says optometrist Neha Mehta (davidclulow.com). Even on a cloudy day, UV radiation can damage your eyes, which may lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. ‘Big sunglasses with wide arms are a must, both for grown-ups and children,’ says Neha, who suggests topping up protection with a big-brimmed hat or cap. (If your ears and neck are exposed, apply sunscreen there, too.) When choosing sunglasses, look for the CE mark, which shows they meet European safety standards. For children, it may be wise to choose plastic rather than glass lenses for safety reasons.

Sunglasses can also help protect your eyes from wind-blown allergens. If you do get dry, sore eyes, Neha recommends Hycosan Preservative Free Eye Drops (€13.99 for 7.5ml, boots.com).

MANY DOG OWNERS THINK BAD BREATH IS NORMAL but it can be a sign of oral disease, which affects 80 per cent of dogs aged three plus. In research on dogs fed on dry food, a Greenies daily dental chew was shown to clean teeth, freshen breath and improve teeth and gum health. From €10 for 22 teenies (other sizes available), amazon.ie, and other online suppliers.

PEOPLE WHO SUFFER WITH ROSACEA will not be welcoming the sun, which is the most common trigger of the chronic inflammatory skin condition. Applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 that protects against UVA and UVB is a must, but experts advise staying out of the sun if possible. A natural range such as Green People Scent-Free Sun Lotion SPF 30 (€28.50 for 200ml, greenpeople.ie) may minimise irritation. Visit rosacea.org for more information.