Posted on Monday 30th June 2025
Counterfeit sunglasses you can come across online and elsewhere.
People are being reminded to check that new sunglasses and sunscreen offer the necessary protection and are not counterfeits.
The county council’s trading standards team has issued a reminder in the hot weather that people should only buy from reputable traders and be careful if buying online.
All sunglasses should have the CE European safety standard mark. Counterfeit sunglasses and some cheap imports often offer no UVA and UVB protection, meaning they can damage people’s eyes. They should also be labelled and information should include the brand, manufacturer and manufacturer’s address. In addition, all sunglasses are categorised zero to four, where four is the darkest tint. The category must be labelled correctly as people shouldn’t drive wearing sunglasses which are categorised as four.
Counterfeit sunscreen made to look like leading brands could cause serious harm – giving no protection against harmful rays from the sun and in some cases containing substances which could cause irritation to the skin.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Staffordshire County Council’s said:
“It is vital that everyone protects their eyes and skin as summer arrives and the days get hotter.
“Counterfeit or fake sunglasses and sunscreen offer no guarantee of protecting you against the sun. Lenses must have UV protection to avoid damaging your eyes and effective sunscreen must be used to prevent sunburn or skin irritation.
“These goods are often available on social media websites and at car boot sales and markets which is why we’re asking people to take care. And remember, if the price of sunglasses or sunscreen appears too good to be true, then it probably is.”
People can report the sale of illicit, illegal or counterfeit goods to Trading Standards on their confidential helpline on 01785 330356 or on the Trading Standards webpage.