August M
Warmer weather and brighter days are drawing people outdoors across the UK.
But eye specialists are urging caution, warning that some popular accessories could pose hidden risks, reports The Guardian.
Experts say counterfeit designer sunglasses, often sold at low prices, may fail to protect against harmful ultraviolet rays. According to The Guardian, professionals warn that wearing such items could increase the likelihood of eye damage rather than prevent it.
The College of Optometrists highlights that sunglasses are not just for comfort in bright light but serve a key role in blocking UV radiation. Without proper protection, exposure can lead to both short- and long-term eye problems.
In the short term, intense UV exposure may trigger photokeratitis, a painful condition likened to sunburn on the eye’s surface.
Hidden dangers
Longer exposure to UV rays has been linked to more serious conditions, including early cataracts, growths on the eye known as pterygia, certain eyelid cancers, and possibly macular degeneration.
Medical professionals warn that counterfeit sunglasses often lack essential UV filters. This creates a misleading sense of protection for wearers.
“When you buy fake sunglasses, you are gambling with your sight. Counterfeit eyewear is uniquely dangerous because it usually features dark-tinted lenses with absolutely zero UV protection. From a medical perspective, wearing them is actually significantly worse than wearing no sunglasses at all,” said Alex Day, a consultant ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital.
He explained that tinted lenses can cause pupils to widen, allowing more harmful radiation to enter the eye if no UV filter is present.
Spotting fakes
Professor James Wolffsohn of Aston University said the body naturally limits UV exposure by squinting or reducing pupil size in bright light. Sunglasses remove these reflexes, making proper UV protection essential.
Authorities say fake sunglasses remain widespread. The Intellectual Property Office has reported multiple seizures, including counterfeit pairs branded as Chanel, Ray-Ban and Prada.
Opticians advise checking for signs of authenticity, such as sturdy construction, accurate branding, and quality packaging. Low prices and visible errors can signal a fake product.
Safety advice
Experts recommend looking for recognised safety labels such as CE, UV400 or UKCA marks to ensure adequate protection.
“It’s not about the depth of the tint, it’s whether or not [a pair of sunglasses carries that mark,” said Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu of the College of Optometrists.
He advised buying from trusted retailers or optometry practices, which can also help ensure proper fit and lens quality.
Bilkhu added that sunglasses should be worn whenever the UV index reaches 3 or above, regardless of cloud cover, noting their importance even in winter conditions due to reflective surfaces like snow.
Sources: The Guardian, College of Optometrists
