Portsmouth Trading Standards Service has issued a warning that counterfeit sunglasses lacking proper UV protection pose serious eye health risks to local consumers, potentially causing cataracts, macular degeneration, and other long-term eye damage through their completely inadequate UV filtering capabilities.
Whilst these knock-off eyewear items may appear stylish, they often fail to provide essential UV protection, leaving wearers’ eyes vulnerable to serious harm.
Key Health Risks
Absence of UV Protection: Counterfeit lenses fail to block damaging UV rays, which can result in cataracts, macular degeneration, and permanent eye damage.
Misleading Security: Dark lenses without proper UV protection cause pupils to dilate, allowing more harmful light to enter the eye.
Substandard Materials: Cheap construction can distort vision, trigger headaches, and break easily, creating additional safety hazards.
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What to Look For When Purchasing
When buying sunglasses, consumers should check for:
- CE or UKCE markings (though be aware that counterfeit glasses often display these marks fraudulently)
- British Standard compliance: BS EN ISO 12312-1:2022
- Build quality: Genuine glasses have smooth edges, whilst fakes often feel rough or have jagged finishes
- Hinge inspection: Look for traces of glue or melted plastic, which typically indicate counterfeit products
- Reputable retailers: Purchase from established, trustworthy sellers
The service has previously confiscated numerous ‘designer sunglasses’ from Portsmouth retailers, highlighting the prevalence of counterfeit eyewear in the local market.
Trading Standards advises consumers to invest in genuine products rather than risk their eyesight with fake alternatives.
