An innovative eyeshade brand, developed with the aid of experts at Abertay University, could be set for mass production after being launched on the Indiegogo crowdfunding platform.
Occles are described by founders Hugh Robertson and Lynne McLeod as the ‘ultimate eyeshades’, and are designed for use by sunbathers seeking to avoid unsightly facial tan marks and dents.
They wrap around the head, without the bridge over the nose, blocking out light with the help of specially-designed eyeseals.
The Edinburgh couple hope they can raise the £10,500 they need to support a 5,000-strong manufacturing run in five bright colours.
“We have reached a key stage in our development, having spent the last few years making several prototypes to perfect the function, comfort and design,” Mr Robertson said.
“We now need investment to take us to the next level to bring Occles to the market.
“We have launched the crowdfunding bid to raise investment and gain feedback from the online community.”
The idea was born three years ago when Mr Robertson and his partner noticed sunseekers on a Greek beach were using towels to cover their eyes from the bright sunshine.
They later discovered there was no other bridgeless design on the market.
The Occles eyeseals, meanwhile, allow the wearer to open and close their eyes while blocking out strong light and harmful UV rays.
Ms McLeod said the product eliminated the strong glare which can even penetrate the lenses of sunglasses.
“When you’re lying at the beach you just want to fully de-stress,” she said.
“No one wants white frown lines or panda eyes after a day relaxing we want a nice, healthy and even glow all over, having protected our skin.
“Occles protect the delicate skin around your eyes.
“We’ve designed Occles to look stylish, feel comfortable, protect your eyes and most importantly aid relaxation.”
Hugh and Lynne have spent 18 months working with Abertay on market research.
The university’s associate director of innovation Dr Gary Mulholland said Occles were “leading the way in their design and approach”.
“The human cost of eye damage means that new innovative solutions are needed to protect our eyes from the harmful effects of strong light,” he said.
Investors will receive a pair of Occles, which it is hoped will be available later this year.