Markets, service stations, and online retailers sell sunglasses for $5 to $20. Many are labelled "UV protection" or "UV400." Some genuinely do provide adequate UV filtering. Many do not,and there is no easy way for the consumer to tell the difference without UV testing equipment.
The Pupil Dilation Problem
The human pupil contracts in bright light to limit the amount of light (including UV) entering the eye. When you put on dark sunglasses, the brain perceives reduced light and relaxes the pupil,allowing it to dilate. If the dark lens is not filtering UV, the dilated pupil allows more UV to reach the retina than if you were wearing no sunglasses at all. This is not a hypothetical,it's a documented phenomenon that explains why fake or sub-standard UV sunglasses can be actively harmful.
What the Australian Standard Requires
AS/NZS 1067 is the Australian and New Zealand standard for sunglasses and fashion spectacles. It sets requirements for UV transmittance, luminous transmittance (tint darkness), and optical quality. Compliant products should carry this marking. The standard has five lens categories (0–4) based on tint level, with Category 2–4 being appropriate for Australian UV conditions.
- Category 0: Fashion spectacles only,minimal UV and glare protection. Not suitable as sun protection.
- Category 1: Some UV protection. Limited sun protection.
- Category 2: Medium tint. Suitable for moderate sun glare,overcast Australian conditions.
- Category 3: Dark tint. Suitable for strong sunlight,most Australian outdoor conditions.
- Category 4: Very dark. Specialist use (ski, alpine, extreme UV). Not suitable for driving.
How to Choose Sunglasses That Actually Work
- Look for AS/NZS 1067 marking on the lens or frame
- Look for "UV400" or "blocks 100% UV" labelling
- Choose Category 2 or 3 for most everyday Australian use
- Avoid loose, floppy frames,gaps at the sides allow UV to enter from angles
- Wraparound or close-fitting styles provide better all-round UV protection
- If purchasing prescription sunglasses, ask specifically for UV400 coating,it should be standard but confirm
Prescription and non-prescription UV400 sunglasses in Auburn
Prime Optometrists Auburn · (02) 9761 0005 · All sunglasses at our clinic are AS/NZS 1067 compliant