What are Mirrored Sunglasses?

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What are Mirrored Sunglasses?

What do mirrored sunglasses do? | Is mirrored better than polarised? | How to clean mirrored sunglasses | Where to buy mirrored sunglasses | Conclusion

Mirrored glasses shield your eyes, guarantee privacy, give you clear vision and, to top it all off, they look great!
What are Mirrored Sunglasses

If you are an adventure-seeker looking for a pair of sunglasses to make an effortless fashion statement without sacrificing functionality, mirrored sunglasses are the perfect choice for you! So, what are mirrored sunglasses?

Mirrored sunglasses, also known as reflective sunglasses, are one of the most popular styles of sunglasses on the market. They come in diverse colours and styles and are made with durable lenses with a reflective coating on the outside, giving them a mirrored look with major functional benefits.

What do mirrored sunglasses do?

What are Mirrored Sunglasses

When wearing mirrored sunglasses, you will not only look fashion-forward, but you will also experience the many benefits that the style offers, including:

1. Protection against UV Light –  Too much direct UV light on your eyes can cause damage, so it is important to protect your eyes as much as possible. Mirrored sunglasses offer great protection because the reflective surface on mirrored lenses has 10-60% higher sunlight reflection compared to normal tinted variations and can often be found with 100% UV protection. 

2. Reduced Glare – The glare from the sun can cause headaches for those with sensitive eyes, and for those doing water and snow sports, the glare can make performance much more difficult. Luckily, reflective sunglasses can reduce glares for a more comfortable outdoor experience, making the style a go-to for many athletes. They are also often used for snow goggles!

3. Brighter field of vision – Since mirrored sunglasses reflect light rather than absorb it, they offer brighter vision when wearing them. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, this benefit is great because it will ensure less strain on your eyes throughout the day.

4. Durability – The mirrored coating on the lenses is one of the most durable coatings available. Many brands also include a scratch-resistant layer, which protects against the wear and tear of everyday life. If you are looking for extra protection, be sure to check that this option is available before purchasing.

5. Anonymity – Say goodbye to awkward eye contact! While mirrored lenses can certainly make you stand out in the crowd, they can also significantly increase your privacy. The reflective lenses will hide your eyes, so you can go about your day feeling a bit more under the radar. 

6. Style – Mirrored sunglasses are also extremely stylish! With colours ranging from silver, pink, blue, green, gold, and more, there are limitless options to fit any personality. Brands such as Ray-Ban, Oakley and Carrera offer an endless number of colour and frame combinations for an instant boost in confidence and style.

DID YOU KNOW

Mirrored sunglasses are sometimes called “cop shades”. This stems from their popularity among US police officers.

Is mirrored better than polarised?

What are Mirrored Sunglasses

Mirrored and polarised sunglasses have many similar benefits as well as some differences, and the preference of one over the other totally depends on what you are looking for. Both offer great UV protection, reduce glare, and are suitable for spending excessive amounts of time in bright conditions. 

The most notable difference is that mirrored lenses are usually less costly and offer a more extensive array of lens colours. While polarised sunglasses often have grey, green, and amber tints, mirrored choices come in bright and bold colours. 

However, before you choose, you can discover the many benefits of polarised lenses to compare them and determine the best choice for you! If you are still undecided, you can combine both options for a polarised, mirrored pair of sunglasses.

How to clean mirrored sunglasses

As with all sunglasses, it is important to clean them thoroughly to ensure they last as long as possible. Mirrored lenses can appear smudged more easily than normal tinted lenses, so you should clean them often. 

While there are many methods online that explain how to remove scratches from sunglasses, we do not recommend trying this because it can ruin your lenses. Instead, it is best to get replacement lenses so your sunglasses last.

Where to buy mirrored sunglasses

Ready to try out a pair of mirrored sunglasses? At SmartBuyGlasses, we offer a vast selection of sunglasses with mirrored lenses. You are sure to find a pair that best suits you among our options from over 180 designer brands that feature bold colours, diverse frames, and unbeatable customer service.

Use our Virtual Try-On technology to make your purchase with 100% confidence. Try on an endless number of styles from the comfort of your own home. Once you choose, you can make the purchase and relax knowing we have a 100-day return policy, free shipping, and the best price guarantee.

Conclusion

Whether you are walking through the city streets, making waves during water sports, or feeling adventurous to try a new outdoor activity, mirrored sunglasses are the perfect choice to ensure style and success for any occasion.

Thick Lens Glasses

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Thick Lens Glasses

Why are my glasses lenses so thick? | Do prisms make glasses thicker? | What shape glasses are best for thick lenses?

By Corina Iatisin
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 09, 2023
Discover the reason behind thick lens glasses and why prescription lenses can vary greatly.

Prescription lenses can vary drastically for each individual, depending on their unique needs. The density of lenses may range from paper-thin to the ‘coke bottle’ effect. But why is this? 

If you have thick glasses, your prescription is likely stronger than most. But what is the purpose of thick lens glasses? Prescription lenses bend the light through curved lenses as it enters your eye. Short-sighted wearers will have lenses that are thicker on the edge and thinner in the middle, while those who are long-sighted will have the opposite.

Why are my glasses lenses so thick?

To understand why you have thick glasses lenses, you need to be aware of your refractive power. The refractive power is the amount that light needs to be bent when entering your eye for you to see clearly. The more light needs to be bent, the higher the refractive power (prescription) will be; therefore, the thicker your lenses will be.


Another point to think about is your glasses’ frame size and pupillary distance. Lens thickness will increase as the frame size increases due to the edge of the lens being utilised to fit the frame. Therefore, the larger the frame, the thicker the lens. A minus RX will be thicker at the edges, while a plus RX will be thicker in the middle.  Your pupillary distance may also change where the thickness occurs if the frame is too large for you.

How thick can glasses get?

How thick the glasses lens will be is determined by a few factors. The material of your lenses contributes to the thickness, as well as your prescription and personal choice. Thanks to new technology, high-index lenses were introduced to help reduce the thickness and weight of the lenses.

 

High-index lenses are made from a plastic material that allows better light refraction in a thin lens. Many people opt for high-index lenses because they have a more sleek look. If you’re asking yourself, “Do I need high index lenses?” you can discover our thin lenses guide to get a better understanding of what they are and whether they are right for you or not. 

DID YOU KNOW?
The article explores the reason behind thick lenses, explaining why prisms make lenses thicker and what are the best frame shapes based on your prescription. 

Do prisms make glasses thicker?

Some eyewear users may experience double vision (diplopia), which requires prism glasses to correct their eyesight. Prism glasses refract the light before entering your lenses rather than when it passes through.

Prism will make the lenses thicker; the higher the prism, the thicker it will be. However, experimenting with various frame styles can help hide the thickness if you feel it is too obvious or bothers you.

Why is one lens thicker than the other?

If you’re noticing that one of your lenses is thicker than the other one, the reason behind that is very simple: different strengths in your prescription. In fact, prescriptions are usually not symmetrical: you may be seeing better in one eye rather than the other. Sometimes the difference can be so slight that it is unnoticeable; other times, if the difference is more drastic, it becomes more noticeable. 

What shape glasses are best for thick lenses?

Getting a pair of new glasses can be confusing, especially for people with strong prescriptions: certain frame types are not advised as they might affect the overall performance of the glasses. To make the process of shopping for new glasses easier, we have put together a brief guide for both myopic (minus) and nearsighted (plus) prescriptions. 

Minus RX Recommendations

Plus RX Recommendations

Now that you have a better understanding of thick-lens glasses and know what frame is best for your prescription, shopping for glasses online won’t be so intimidating or confusing! 

If you want to learn more about trick lenses or lenses in general, visit our Optical Centre. You will find many informative articles on the subject, all thoroughly reviewed by our certified opticians. 

Sunglasses Lens Colour Guide

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Sunglass Lens Colour Guide

Does the colour of sunglass lens matter? | Lens colour recommendation by weather | Lens colour recommendation by activity

By Corina Iatisin
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
When buying a new pair of sunglasses and choosing the colour of your lenses, remember that different lens colours have different purposes.

Depending on weather conditions or the activities that are part of your daily routine, the colour of your lenses can enhance the overall performance of your glasses. Most people choose lens colours based on aesthetics, but did you know that different lens colours serve different purposes? In this article, we will guide you through the different colour options, explain the difference between each lens colour and help you understand how to choose the best one to suit your needs.

In this article, we will guide you through the different color options, explain the difference between each lens color and help you understand how to choose the best one to suit your needs.

Does the colour of sunglass lens matter?

Yes, colour has a noticeable effect on the sunglasses. Depending on your lifestyle, lens colour also affects your eye health during certain activities. This makes it essential for you to find a suitable lens compatible with your daily activities and needs.

What about mirrored lenses?

Mirrored sunglasses are the perfect stylish option to protect your eyes against UV rays. The fully reflective coating used for the lenses gives the mirrored look everyone loves these days. Combined with polarised lenses, they offer maximum protection against UV rays and increase clarity. Both polarised and mirrored lenses, either separate or combined, come in different colours. Below, we will be listing the most popular colours and what is the advantage of choosing each lens colour.

Lens colour guide

Gray and black lenses

Gray and black lenses are the best option if you’re looking for a neutral lens tint. These lenses are perfect for all weather conditions and are the top choice if you want to perceive colours in their purest form, even when wearing sunglasses.

Grey lenses are great at reducing the brightest glare and are perfect for outdoor activities and sports such as surfing, cycling, golfing and driving. If you’re looking for the everyday use type of tint, this is the one.

Amber and brown lenses

Amber and brown tints are extremely popular as they provide excellent depth perception. These lenses have a warm, reddish tone and are perfect for reducing glare, enhancing contrast, and helping maintain visual acuity. Amber and brown lens sunglasses are perfect for sunny days and outdoor activities such as fishing, shooting, tennis, or baseball.

Green lenses

Green Lenses are one of the trendiest when it comes to polarized or mirrored sunglasses. They are perfect for sunny days but also in low light conditions. Whether sunny, cloudy, or anything in between, green lenses will work amazingly well, giving you excellent vision and reducing glare.

Green lens sunglasses are one of the most popular ones for outdoor activities: no matter what sport you have on your agenda, these lenses will increase contrast and visual sharpness and enhance shadow.

Yellow lenses

Yellow lenses are more efficient in low-light environments like cloudy or rainy days. One of the benefits of using yellow lenses is that when playing sports, these lenses are great for focusing on moving objects. Another advantage is that when navigating, they are perfect in hazy or low-light conditions. Yellow lenses are also very popular amongst gamers as they filter blue light from computer screens and other screen devices.

DID YOU KNOW
Black lenses are perfect if you're looking for a neutral lens tint while brown lenses provide excellent depth perception. Blue lenses are suited for all water sports. For rainy days, yellow lenses are a must!

Blue lenses

Blue lenses are not only very trendy but also well-known for enhancing clarity and defining contours. These lenses improve colour perception and do wonders in low-light conditions. They’re suited well for all water sports, snow sports, and golf.

Red/pink lenses

Red and pink tints increase contrast by blocking blue light and enhancing depth perception. They are also soothing for the eyes and more comfortable than others for longer wear times. Pink and red lenses perform their best on extremely sunny days and snowy conditions.

Lens colour recommendation by weather

Lens colour recommendation by activity

Benefits of lens colours and tint

Now that you’ve read the guide to coloured lenses for sunglasses, choosing the next pair won’t be so daunting. Whether you need the perfect pair for your winter sports or the bright sunlight of summer, you’ll have the right tinted sunglasses to suit all your vision needs.

Sunglass Lens Colour Guide

Does the colour of sunglass lens matter? | Lens colour recommendation by weather | Lens colour recommendation by activity

By Corina Iatisin
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
When buying a new pair of sunglasses and choosing the colour of your lenses, remember that different lens colours have different purposes.

Depending on weather conditions or the activities that are part of your daily routine, the colour of your lenses can enhance the overall performance of your glasses. Most people choose lens colours based on aesthetics, but did you know that different lens colours serve different purposes? In this article, we will guide you through the different colour options, explain the difference between each lens colour and help you understand how to choose the best one to suit your needs.

Does the colour of sunglass lens matter?

Yes, colour has a noticeable effect on the sunglasses. Depending on your lifestyle, lens colour also affects your eye health during certain activities. This makes it essential for you to find a suitable lens compatible with your daily activities and needs.

What about mirrored lenses?

Mirrored sunglasses are the perfect stylish option to protect your eyes against UV rays. The fully reflective coating used for the lenses gives the mirrored look everyone loves these days. Combined with polarised lenses, they offer maximum protection against UV rays and increase clarity. Both polarised and mirrored lenses, either separate or combined, come in different colours. Below, we will be listing the most popular colours and what is the advantage of choosing each lens colour.

Lens color guide

Gray and black lenses

Gray and black lenses are the best option if you’re looking for a neutral lens tint. These lenses are perfect for all weather conditions and are the top choice if you want to perceive colours in their purest form, even when wearing sunglasses.

Grey lenses are great at reducing the brightest glare and are perfect for outdoor activities and sports such as surfing, cycling, golfing and driving. If you’re looking for the everyday use type of tint, this is the one.

Amber and brown lenses

Amber and brown tints are extremely popular as they provide excellent depth perception. These lenses have a warm, reddish tone and are perfect for reducing glare, enhancing contrast, and helping maintain visual acuity. Amber and brown lens sunglasses are perfect for sunny days and outdoor activities such as fishing, shooting, tennis, or baseball.

Green lenses

Green Lenses are one of the trendiest when it comes to polarized or mirrored sunglasses. They are perfect for sunny days but also in low light conditions. Whether sunny, cloudy, or anything in between, green lenses will work amazingly well, giving you excellent vision and reducing glare.

Green lens sunglasses are one of the most popular ones for outdoor activities: no matter what sport you have on your agenda, these lenses will increase contrast and visual sharpness and enhance shadow.

Yellow lenses

Yellow lenses are more efficient in low-light environments like cloudy or rainy days. One of the benefits of using yellow lenses is that when playing sports, these lenses are great for focusing on moving objects. Another advantage is that when navigating, they are perfect in hazy or low-light conditions. Yellow lenses are also very popular amongst gamers as they filter blue light from computer screens and other screen devices.

DID YOU KNOW
Black lenses are perfect if you're looking for a neutral lens tint while brown lenses provide excellent depth perception. Blue lenses are suited for all water sports. For rainy days, yellow lenses are a must!

Blue lenses

Blue lenses are not only very trendy but also well-known for enhancing clarity and defining contours. These lenses improve colour perception and do wonders in low-light conditions. They’re suited well for all water sports, snow sports, and golf.

Red/pink lenses

Red and pink tints increase contrast by blocking blue light and enhancing depth perception. They are also soothing for the eyes and more comfortable than others for longer wear times. Pink and red lenses perform their best on extremely sunny days and snowy conditions.

Lens color recommendation by weather

Lens color recommendation by activity

Benefits of lens colors and tint

Now that you’ve read the guide to coloured lenses for sunglasses, choosing the next pair won’t be so daunting. Whether you need the perfect pair for your winter sports or the bright sunlight of summer, you’ll have the right tinted sunglasses to suit all your vision needs.

What Is Anisometropia?

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What Is Anisometropia?

What are the types of Anisometropia? | Is Antimetropia rare? | Symptoms of Anisometropia | What causes Anisometropia? |Treatment | Can Anisometropia be corrected with glasses?| Does Anisometropia get worse?

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Caitlyn Gibiault
Caitlyn Gibiault

Reviewed by

Caitlyn Gibiault
Aurora is a Digital Marketing Specialist for SmartBuyGlasses. She’s enthusiastic about supporting the marketing.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Anisometropia is a condition where the refractive error differs between two eyes. Read on to learn more about what anisometropia is.

If you are wondering, ‘what is Anisometropia?’ then you have come to the right place. The definition of anisometropia, more commonly known as vision imbalance, is a condition where your eyes have varying refractive power – i.e. your ability to focus is different in each eye. Anisometropia means you have a different prescription for each eye. 

Typically caused by unevenly sized or shaped eyes, anisometropia symptoms include asymmetric longsightedness or asymmetric shortsightedness. Anisometropia can result in an induced differential prism between the eyes as they move away from the centre of the correcting lens. Several studies show that only around 6% of young people have this refractive error, which generally occurs more frequently as they age.

What are the types of anisometropia?

1) Simple anisometropia

Simple anisometropia occurs when one eye has regular vision, but the other affected eye is short-sighted (myopia) or long-sighted (hyperopia). If you have one normal eye and one nearsighted eye, you have simple myopic anisometropia i.e. blurrier image in one eye.

2) Hyperopic anisometropia

Hyperopic anisometropia, also known as compound anisometropia, occurs when both eyes have the same refraction problem, but one eye is worse. If your pair of eyes are nearsighted, but one has a higher prescription than the other, you have compound myopic anisometropia. 

This can cause the eyes to be unable to work together and fuse the image into one, causing double vision. Double vision, also known as diplopia, causes people to see two of the same image.

3) Simple astigmatic anisometropia

Astigmatism is when the curvature of your eye’s cornea or lens is shaped like a football, which means your vision is blurred at all distances. The shape of your eye causes light to refract unevenly, which means the light changes direction when it enters your eye at an angle.

4) Compound astigmatic anisometropia

This refractive error means you have astigmatism in both eyes, but one eye requires much more correction. For compound astigmatic anisometropia, both eyes are either farsighted or nearsighted and require refraction correction.

5) Mixed astigmatic anisometropia

If you have this type of anisometropia, you have astigmatism in both eyes. However, one eye is farsighted, and the other is nearsighted.

6) Antimetropia

Another kind of anisometropia is a rare refractive condition called antimetropia, also known as mixed anisometropia. This condition is when one eye is myopic and the other is hyperopic, which means there is a significant difference in vision between the two eyes.

Is antimetropia rare?

Antimetropia is rare, but in most cases that it occurs is in post-cataract refractive surgery patients.

Symptoms of anisometropia

‘How do I know if I have anisometropia?’ You may be asking at this point. Anisometropia has a number of noticeable symptoms. These can include:

  • Amblyopia (also called lazy eye)
  • Frequent blurred vision
  • Diplopia (double vision) and dizziness
  • Strabismus (crossed eyes) 
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty with 3D vision, poor depth perception and loss of balance
  • Lack of coordination

If you suffer from any of these or other mild vision problems, you should ask your doctor for a comprehensive eye exam and diagnosis. An eye exam will generally include various tests to check the health of your eye and distinguish any diseases or conditions. Even if you do not have any symptoms, an eye screening is recommended for adults at the age of 40 to identify vision change and any signs of various sight impairments.

What causes anisometropia?

Most people with ‘normal vision’ can experience up to a 5% difference in the refractive power of each eye. However, those with a larger difference in refractive power (5-20%) will experience uneven vision, which can cause a lack of coordination.

There is no definitive answer as to what causes refractive errors that lead to developing anisometropia. There are likely genetic and environmental risk factors for this, such as defects in the eye at birth or an uneven size of the two eyes. Other potential causes can include injury to the eye, eye trauma and refractive surgery.

DID YOU KNOW?
Anisometromia means having a large difference in refractive power of each eye, between 5 and 20%. This causes uneven vision, which leads to lack of coordination.

Anisometropia after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is when the natural lens of an eye is replaced with an artificial one to help improve visual stimulation without wearing glasses or stopping cataract development. The majority of people will copy very well following cataract surgery. However, some people will experience symptoms of anisometropia in more severe cases.

Anisometropia in children

Anisometropia can result in anisometropic amblyopia (lazy eye) in young children. Amblyopia can occur in children because the brain tells the eyes to focus the same amount in each eye. However, if the eyes don’t have the same refractive power, one eye will produce a blurry image compared to the other eye. 

Furthermore, if your child does not have a wandering or crossing eye (strabismus), it can be difficult to determine the condition. Young children often do not present outward signs of issues, as they function well using one eye, so it is more difficult to notice. 

However, older children are likely to complain. We recommend booking your child an eye test to diagnose the condition and to be treated.

Treatment

There are different methods of treatment for anisometropia, which vary from person to person. It is important to consult your eye doctor to understand and seek treatment. Treatments you may be offered include:

  • Corrective lenses (wear glasses or contact lenses) can be worn to improve overall vision and produce a clear image.
  • Special filters in glasses help train the brain to use the weaker eye.
  • Covering the dominant eye with an eye patch (the same treatment for a lazy eye), also known as patching, helps the brain use the neglected eye.
  • Eye drops can blur the vision in the dominant eye, which helps force the brain to use the neglected eye.
  • LASIK is a common corrective surgery for treating anisometropia, depending on your prescription.

Can anisometropia be corrected with glasses?

If you’re asking, ‘can anisometropia be corrected?’, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are treatment options. One kind of treatment for anisometropia is corrective lenses. While you are correcting short-sightedness in both eyes using prescription glasses that are the same over each eye, anisometropia requires a different kind of lens to correct it.

When deciding which route to take when it comes to eyewear, consider the wide range of options available:

  1. Prescription glasses with bifocal or progressive addition lenses (PALs) are a common option for treating anisometropia symptoms and are often the first step. You can get an up-to-date spectacle prescription from your optician or use our Lens Scanner to reveal your current prescription.
  2. Bifocal lenses are glasses constructed with two points of focus, which simultaneously correct refractive errors for both distance and near vision.
  3. Progressive lenses are similar to bifocal lenses but offer a gradual transition between the two prescription lenses, so there is no visible line on your prescription spectacles.
  4. Reading glasses are another option for anisometropia symptoms. You can have these glasses fitted with your unique prescription so you can wear these glasses while you read or work. There are also non-prescription reading glasses that you can typically try out and purchase in high-street shops.

Severe Anisometropia

A patient with severe anisometropia is not generally not recommended to wear glasses. Glasses have a magnification effect that can cause a large difference in the image size seen by each eye. Therefore, wearing glasses with severe anisometropia can prevent exceptional binocular vision. Therefore, those with severe anisometropia are generally advised to wear contact lenses instead, as they ensure optimal vision in both eyes.

Anisometropia treatment: contact lenses

Additionally, there is a range of contact lenses available to treat anisometropia symptoms. Multifocal are available in both gas-permeable and soft lens material, depending on your preference.  Another possibility is monovision contact lenses, where you use a distance vision lens for one eye and a different contact lens for close-up usage in the other. The type a patient chooses depends on the type of anisometropia and the spectacle prescription.

How serious is anisometropia?

The severity of anisometropia varies in adults and children. It is essential to treat anisometropia as soon as it is diagnosed and not ignore it. If anisometropia is left untreated, the brain can select the better eye that presents a clearer image, thus ignoring the other eye. This can then lead to dependence on the stronger eye over exam time.

Eventually, the weaker eye will progressively worsen, so it’s important to get an appointment with your ophthalmologist before the refractive error becomes acute. At your appointment, your eye doctor will recommend the best eye treatment going forward.

Does anisometropia get worse?

In some cases, anisometropia can worsen. Anisometropia shows an exponential increase in prevalence with increasing age in life. Furthermore, if you do not treat your anisometropia, this can worsen the condition. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you seek the correct treatment from your eye doctor before the condition can develop or lead to complications.

What Is Anisometropia?

What are the types of Anisometropia? | Is Antimetropia rare? | Symptoms of Anisometropia | What causes Anisometropia? |Treatment | Can Anisometropia be corrected with glasses?| Does Anisometropia get worse?

By Caitlin Biwer
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Anisometropia is a condition where the refractive error differs between two eyes. Read on to learn more about what Anisometropia is.

If you are wondering, ‘what is Anisometropia?’ then you have come to the right place. The definition of anisometropia, more commonly known as vision imbalance, is a condition where your eyes have varying refractive power – i.e. your ability to focus is different in each eye.

Anisometropia means you have a different prescription for each eye. 

Typically caused by unevenly sized or shaped eyes, anisometropia symptoms include asymmetric longsightedness or asymmetric shortsightedness.

Anisometropia can result in an induced differential prism between the eyes as they move away from the centre of the correcting lens. Several studies show that only around 6% of young people have this refractive error, which generally occurs more frequently as they age.

What are the types of anisometropia?

There are different types of anisometropia, with patients being affected differently by each of them. However, most types of anisometropia share the same symptoms.

1) Simple anisometropia

Simple anisometropia occurs when one eye has regular vision, but the other affected eye is short-sighted (myopia) or long-sighted (hyperopia).

If you have one normal eye and one nearsighted eye, you have simple myopic anisometropia i.e. blurrier image in one eye.

2) Hyperopic anisometropia

Hyperopic anisometropia, also known as compound anisometropia, occurs when both eyes have the same refraction problem, but one eye is worse.

If your pair of eyes are nearsighted, but one has a higher prescription than the other, you have compound myopic anisometropia.

This can cause the eyes to be unable to work together and fuse the image into one, causing double vision. Double vision, also known as diplopia, causes people to see two of the same image.

4) Simple astigmatic anisometropia

Astigmatism is when the curvature of your eye’s cornea or lens is shaped like a football, which means your vision is blurred at all distances.

The shape of your eye causes light to refract unevenly, which means the light changes direction when it enters your eye at an angle.

5) Compound astigmatic anisometropia

This refractive error means you have astigmatism in both eyes, but one eye requires much more correction. For compound astigmatic anisometropia, both eyes are either farsighted or nearsighted and require refraction correction.

6) Mixed astigmatic anisometropia

If you have this type of anisometropia, you have astigmatism in both eyes. However, one eye is farsighted, and the other is nearsighted.

7) Antimetropia

Another kind of anisometropia is a rare refractive condition called antimetropia, also known as mixed anisometropia.

This condition is when one eye is myopic and the other is hyperopic, which means there is a significant difference in vision between the two eyes.

Is antimetropia rare?

Antimetropia is rare, but in most cases that it occurs is in post-cataract refractive surgery patients.

Symptoms of anisometropia

‘How do I know if I have anisometropia?’ You may be asking at this point. Anisometropia has a number of noticeable symptoms. These can include: 

  • Amblyopia (also called lazy eye)
  • Frequent blurred vision
  • Diplopia (double vision) and dizziness
  • Strabismus (crossed eyes) 
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty with 3D vision, poor depth perception and loss of balance
  • Lack of coordination

 

If you suffer from any of these or other mild vision problems, you should ask your doctor for a comprehensive eye exam and diagnosis. An eye exam will generally include various tests to check the health of your eye and distinguish any diseases or conditions. Even if you do not have any symptoms, an eye screening is recommended for adults at the age of 40 to identify vision change and any signs of various sight impairments.

What causes anisometropia?

Most people with ‘normal vision’ can experience up to a 5% difference in the refractive power of each eye.

However, those with a larger difference in refractive power (5-20%) will experience uneven vision, which can cause a lack of coordination.

There is no definitive answer as to what causes refractive errors that lead to developing anisometropia. There are likely genetic and environmental risk factors for this, such as defects in the eye at birth or an uneven size of the two eyes.

Other potential causes can include injury to the eye, eye trauma and refractive surgery.

DID YOU KNOW?
Anisometromia means having a large difference in refractive power of each eye, between 5 and 20%. This causes uneven vision, which leads to lack of coordination.

Anisometropia after cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is when the natural lens of an eye is replaced with an artificial one to help improve visual stimulation without wearing glasses or stopping cataract development.

The majority of people will copy very well following cataract surgery. However, some people will experience symptoms of anisometropia in more severe cases.

Anisometropia in children

Anisometropia can result in anisometropic amblyopia (lazy eye) in young children. Amblyopia can occur in children because the brain tells the eyes to focus the same amount in each eye. However, if the eyes don’t have the same refractive power, one eye will produce a blurry image compared to the other eye. 

Furthermore, if your child does not have a wandering or crossing eye (strabismus), it can be difficult to determine the condition. Young children often do not present outward signs of issues, as they function well using one eye, so it is more difficult to notice. 

However, older children are likely to complain. We recommend booking your child an eye test to diagnose the condition and to be treated.

Treatment

There are different methods of treatment for anisometropia, which vary from person to person. It is important to consult your eye doctor to understand and seek treatment. Treatments you may be offered include:

  • Corrective lenses (wear glasses or contact lenses) can be worn to improve overall vision and produce a clear image.
  • Special filters in glasses help train the brain to use the weaker eye.
  • Covering the dominant eye with an eye patch (the same treatment for a lazy eye), also known as patching, helps the brain use the neglected eye.
  • Eye drops can blur the vision in the dominant eye, which helps force the brain to use the neglected eye.
  • LASIK is a common corrective surgery for treating anisometropia, depending on your prescription.

Can anisometropia be corrected with glasses?

If you’re asking, ‘can anisometropia be corrected?’, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are treatment options. One kind of treatment for anisometropia is corrective lenses. While you are correcting short-sightedness in both eyes using prescription glasses that are the same over each eye, anisometropia requires a different kind of lens to correct it.

When deciding which route to take when it comes to eyewear, consider the wide range of options available: 

  1. Prescription glasses with bifocal or progressive addition lenses (PALs) are a common option for treating anisometropia symptoms and are often the first step. You can get an up-to-date spectacle prescription from your optician or use our Lens Scanner to reveal your current prescription.
  2. Bifocal lenses are glasses constructed with two points of focus, which simultaneously correct refractive errors for both distance and near vision.
  3. Progressive lenses are similar to bifocal lenses but offer a gradual transition between the two prescription lenses, so there is no visible line on your prescription spectacles.
  4. Reading glasses are another option for anisometropia symptoms. You can have these glasses fitted with your unique prescription so you can wear these glasses while you read or work. There are also non-prescription reading glasses that you can typically try out and purchase in high-street shops.

Severe anisometropia

A patient with severe anisometropia is not generally not recommended to wear glasses. Glasses have a magnification effect that can cause a large difference in the image size seen by each eye.

Therefore, wearing glasses with severe anisometropia can prevent exceptional binocular vision. Therefore, those with severe anisometropia are generally advised to wear contact lenses instead, as they ensure optimal vision in both eyes.

Anisometropia treatment: contact lenses

Additionally, there is a range of contact lenses available to treat anisometropia symptoms. Multifocal are available in both gas-permeable and soft lens material, depending on your preference. 

Another possibility is monovision contact lenses, where you use a distance vision lens for one eye and a different contact lens for close-up usage in the other. The type a patient chooses depends on the type of anisometropia and the spectacle prescription.

How serious is anisometropia?

The severity of anisometropia varies in adults and children. It is essential to treat anisometropia as soon as it is diagnosed and not ignore it.

If anisometropia is left untreated, the brain can select the better eye that presents a clearer image, thus ignoring the other eye. This can then lead to dependence on the stronger eye over exam time.

Eventually, the weaker eye will progressively worsen, so it’s important to get an appointment with your ophthalmologist before the refractive error becomes acute.

At your appointment, your eye doctor will recommend the best eye treatment going forward.

Does anisometropia get worse?

In some cases, anisometropia can worsen. Anisometropia shows an exponential increase in prevalence with increasing age in life.

Furthermore, if you do not treat your anisometropia, this can worsen the condition.

Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you seek the correct treatment from your eye doctor before the condition can develop or lead to complications.

Crazed Lenses

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Crazed Lenses

What are crazed lenses? | What causes it? | Can Transitions craze? Heat damage and crazing | How to spot it | How to prevent it | How to fix it

By Claire Capuano
Reviewed by Caitlyn Gibiault
Caitlyn Gibiault

Reviewed by

Caitlyn Gibiault
Aurora is a Digital Marketing Specialist for SmartBuyGlasses. She’s enthusiastic about supporting the marketing.
Updated On Mar 15, 2023
Find out what crazed lenses are and how to prevent them from getting in the way of clear vision.

If you notice tiny cracks on your glasses’ lenses, the anti-reflective coating (AR coating) has probably begun to craze. Crazing is a web of tiny cracks that can appear on the lenses of eyeglasses which have an anti-reflective coating. When crazing or lens cloudiness occurs, your glasses become less effective as your field of vision may appear blurry.

What is crazing on my eyeglasses lenses?

Lens crazing is the spider web of fine cracks that can occur when your glasses’ special lens coatings are damaged by improper care or exposure to extreme temperatures. Anti-reflective lenses and polarised lenses have a lot of benefits. These coated lenses block glare and reflections, ease eye strain and improve vision. It is important to note that while these lenses are an excellent option for many, the coatings are susceptible to crazing, requiring proper care to prevent it.

What causes crazing on lenses?

There are multiple factors that can cause lenses to craze. An unavoidable cause is the improper application of an anti-reflective coating in the lab. In addition, cleaning your eyeglasses with rubbing alcohol, window cleaner, or another harsh cleaner may lead to crazing. As with any pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses, it is essential to clean your glasses properly.

Extreme or quick temperature changes may cause the coated lenses to expand and contract leading to crazed lenses. Wearing your glasses while doing activities near high temperatures, such as grilling, tending a fire, or welding may have the same effect. Crazing or lens cloudiness may also appear with no apparent cause. In this situation, the crazing may be the result of a manufacturing defect.

DID YOU KNOW?
Lens crazing are fine cracks that can occur when your glasses' special lens coatings are damaged. It's easy to prevent if you take proper care of them and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.

Is it possible for Transitions® lenses to craze?

Transitions® glasses and other brands of photochromic lenses can become crazed if they are coated with an anti-reflective coating. Crazing on Transitions® lenses is often caused by exposure to high heat. This doesn’t mean you should avoid wearing your glasses, but be mindful of how and where you wear them. Avoid leaving glasses sitting outside on a sunny day or wearing them around extreme heat.

How can heat damage eyeglass lenses?

High heat exposure can damage glasses and lenses in several ways. First, heat can cause the anti-glare coating and lenses to expand at different rates. These contractions create eyeglass crazing. Heat can also damage glasses by softening and warping plastic frames and lenses and damaging the film on polarised sunglasses.

Heat is not something we can always avoid. But to protect your glasses from heat damage, do not leave your glasses in a hot car and avoid wearing glasses near extreme heat. If your optician plans to use a frame warmer to adjust your glasses to better fit your face, speak to them about the possibility of crazing.

How to spot crazing

If you suddenly notice your vision is not as great in your relatively new glasses, crazing may be the cause. Check the lenses for hairline cracks, and contact the eye doctor or optical store where you purchased the glasses to find a solution and restore your vision.

How to prevent crazing on eyeglasses

It is important to take proper care of your glasses. By doing so, you can prevent crazing and surface scratching. When your glasses are dirty, do not use hot, heavily soapy water, but instead rinse them with lukewarm water to remove any dirt or debris. A microfiber or lint-free cotton towel and a lens spray designed specifically for cleaning eyeglasses are also good solutions. Remember to be careful and avoid high heat, as this creates crazing.

How can I fix crazed lenses?

Some eye care professionals and optical laboratories have access to stripping solutions that can be used to strip the anti-reflective coating from the lenses and remove crazing. SmartBuyGlasses does not offer this service and it is only sometimes an option, so speak to your optician to see if this is a solution for you. Results will vary based on the lens and coating used and it may not be possible for the AR coating to be stripped from polycarbonate lenses or high-index lenses.

Check to see if your lenses are still under warranty; some warranties cover crazing caused by a manufacturing defect. Your warranty will not cover crazing caused by mistake; for example, leaving glasses in a hot car. At SmartBuyGlasses, all eyewear comes with a 24-month warranty. If your crazing is caused by a manufacturer’s defect, it will likely appear within the first six months. Head to our FAQ to read more about what’s covered under warranty.

Some eye care professionals and optical laboratories have access to stripping solutions that can be used to strip the anti-reflective coating from the lenses and remove crazing.

SmartBuyGlasses does not offer this service and it is only sometimes an option, so speak to your optician to see if this is a solution for you. Results will vary based on the lens and coating used and it may not be possible for the AR coating to be stripped from polycarbonate lenses or high-index lenses.

Check to see if your lenses are still under warranty; some warranties cover crazing caused by a manufacturing defect. Your warranty will not cover crazing caused by mistake; for example, leaving glasses in a hot car.

At SmartBuyGlasses, all eyewear comes with a 24-month warranty. If your crazing is caused by a manufacturer’s defect, it will likely appear within the first six months. Head to our FAQ to read more about what’s covered under warranty.

Lens crazing

Don’t avoid an anti-reflective coating because of crazed lens potential. An anti-reflective coating has many benefits. To avoid crazing, keep your eyeglass lenses safe, avoid wearing your glasses near high heat, don’t leave glasses in a hot car and remove dirt and debris correctly.

While crazed lenses may result from a manufacturer error, more commonly, it is human error. Don’t let crazing happen; pay attention to your eyeglass lenses and always take special care of them. 

What are Computer Glasses

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What are Computer Glasses

What type of glasses are best for computer use? | What is the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses? | How do they work?

By Corina Iatisin
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Updated On Mar 21, 2023
Find out how computer glasses work and the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses.

Contents

Computer glasses, also called computer reading glasses, are prescription glasses specifically designed for computer use. These glasses are created to relieve digital eyestrain and shield from the blue light emitted by screens. If your job or lifestyle requires you to spend several hours of the day in front of the computer, it is important to understand what are computer glasses, how they work and where to get a pair if needed.

What type of glasses are best for computer use?

Extended exposure to computer screen can cause digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome. When suffering from digital eyestrain, you might find yourself experiencing the following symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Blurry vision
  • Tired eyes
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye twitching
  • Red eyes
  • Sleep problems
  • Neck pain

Because our eyes are not used to staring at close objects for a very long period of time and are very sensitive to the potentially harmful blue light emitted by screens, wearing computer glasses can be beneficial and help relieve the discomforts listed above.

What is the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses?

Computer glasses are different from regular glasses or generic reading glasses because their specific purpose is to reduce the digital eyestrain associated with computer work. If you’re tempted to buy a generic pair of reading glasses off-the-rack, keep in mind these most likely won’t solve any of your problems as they do not have an anti-reflective coating or blue light-blocking coating. Additionally, computer glasses have a customized prescription, which means not everyone will be able to wear the same pair of glasses to work in front of a screen. To find which glasses are the best fit for you, taking an eye exam is the right option.

Computer glasses vs reading glasses

When working in front of a computer, you are typically positioned 20-26 inches from it which is considered the intermediate zone of vision. This is the reason computer glasses have a different power to your reading glasses: when reading, the distance from your book is usually closer to you than a computer screen, this is why they vary. We do not advise selecting the power without consulting an eye care specialist, as that might result in choosing the wrong glasses and damaging your vision.

How do computer glasses work?

As previously mentioned, the main focus of computer glasses is to reduce eye strain. If your daily routine requires working in front of the computer for extended periods of time, or you’re a gamer and spend hours in front of other digital devices, you may have noticed changes in your eye health, posture, and sleeping schedule. Not only does computer blue light cause discomfort in the eyes, but it also affects energy levels that then result in trouble falling asleep and sleep disruption. Prolonged exposure to blue light can also damage cells in the retina and cause vision problems. Another important factor to note is that our eyes are not used to staring at close objects for an extended period of time. This can result in you squinting your eyes very often and having tension in your neck.

DID YOU KNOW

Computer glasses can help digital eye strain and all the discomforts associated with computer work. 

Computer glasses not only feature lens coatings designed to block blue light but are also custom to your prescription and feature decentered pupillary distance. The prescription varies from person to person, which means buying one generic pair off the rack won’t be helpful. Instead, consult an eye care specialist.

When wearing computer glasses, all the harmful blue light is blocked by the lens coatings on your glasses, and only the beneficial blue light is able to pass through and reach your retina. It is important to remember that computer glasses or blue light glasses only block about 50% of blue light because blue light in small quantities is actually necessary for certain bodily functions and keeps your system healthy.

Who needs computer glasses?

Computer glasses are very useful for those who use technological devices daily and are prone to blue light exposure for many hours of the day. Almost all heavy users of computers and smartphones experience eye fatigue within minutes after being used. Studies show that the average person spends seven to eight hours in front of multiple electronic devices: from computers to mobile phones, gaming screens, TVs and so on. With technology being more and more present in our lives and our digital eye developing, our glasses should too. This is why computer glasses are more important than ever.

Do I need a different prescription for computer glasses?

The answer is yes, computer glasses will need a  prescription with an intermediate add, which should be discussed with your eye care specialist during your appointment. If you experience eye strain, blurry vision or any of the discomforts listed above, it is crucial to consult an eye care specialist before getting a new pair of glasses. Don’t underestimate the importance of getting your eyes checked.

Before going to your healthcare provider, make sure you make a list of all of the symptoms you’re experiencing. If you spend long hours in front of your computer, you’re going to want to measure the distance you usually have from your computer while working or studying. That may be an important detail for the optician to have when filling in your prescription.

Do computer glasses really work?

The real effectiveness of blue light glasses has always been up for debate. Even though their effectiveness has never been scientifically proven, research suggests that the benefits of blue light glasses can include less eye strain, fewer sleep disturbances, and a decrease in headaches. When it comes to computer glasses, these not only provide protection against blue light but have a custom prescription and decentered pupillary distance. This means that by using computer glasses during work, you will be able to see clearly and avoid leaning forward to your screens, keeping a better posture and not squinting your eyes.

Benefits of computer glasses

To sum up, using glasses for computer use comes with many benefits, such as:

  • Reduced computer vision syndrome
  • Good posture
  • Minimized glare
  • Protection from blue light

Where to Find the Perfect Pair of computer reading glasses

If you’re suffering from computer vision syndrome and find yourself exhausted after working or studying in front of a computer, head to your eye care specialist and make sure you get your eyes checked. With your prescription up to date, you will then be able to buy the right pair of computer glasses for you with blue light-blocking lenses. You can head to SmartBuyGlasses and find many quality glasses with affordable options, as well as hundreds of lens types, frame colours, and materials.

You don’t have to decide on single-vision computer glasses – if the glasses are to serve you not only at the computer but also during other activities related to distance vision, consider using progressive lenses in your blue light-blocking glasses.

Remember it is essential for your eyes to rest, so after getting a good pair of computer glasses, make sure you also take breaks from the screens during your working and studying hours and limit screen use when possible. Your eye health is important.

If you want to read more about digital eye strain and blue light glasses, head to our Optical Centre; you will find numerous informative articles thoroughly reviewed by our certified opticians.

What are Computer Glasses

What type of glasses are best for computer use? | What is the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses? | How do they work?

By Corina Iatisin
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Updated On Mar 09, 2023
Find out how computer glasses work and the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses.

Computer glasses, also called computer reading glasses, are prescription glasses specifically designed for computer use. These glasses are created to relieve digital eyestrain and shield from the blue light emitted by screens. If your job or lifestyle requires you to spend several hours of the day in front of the computer, it is important to understand what are computer glasses, how they work and where to get a pair if needed.

What type of glasses are best for computer use?

Extended exposure to computer screen can cause digital eye strain, also called computer vision syndrome. When suffering from digital eyestrain, you might find yourself experiencing the following symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Blurry vision
  • Tired eyes
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye twitching
  • Red eyes
  • Sleep problems
  • Neck pain

Because our eyes are not used to staring at close objects for a very long period of time and are very sensitive to the potentially harmful blue light emitted by screens, wearing computer glasses can be beneficial and help relieve the discomforts listed above.

What is the difference between computer glasses and regular glasses?

Computer glasses are different from regular glasses or generic reading glasses because their specific purpose is to reduce the digital eyestrain associated with computer work. If you’re tempted to buy a generic pair of reading glasses off-the-rack, keep in mind these most likely won’t solve any of your problems as they do not have an anti-reflective coating or blue light-blocking coating. Additionally, computer glasses have a customized prescription, which means not everyone will be able to wear the same pair of glasses to work in front of a screen. To find which glasses are the best fit for you, taking an eye exam is the right option.

Computer glasses vs reading glasses

When working in front of a computer, you are typically positioned 20-26 inches from it which is considered the intermediate zone of vision. This is the reason computer glasses have a different power to your reading glasses: when reading, the distance from your book is usually closer to you than a computer screen, this is why they vary. We do not advise selecting the power without consulting an eye care specialist, as that might result in choosing the wrong glasses and damaging your vision.

How do computer glasses work?

As previously mentioned, the main focus of computer glasses is to reduce eye strain. If your daily routine requires working in front of the computer for extended periods of time, or you’re a gamer and spend hours in front of other digital devices, you may have noticed changes in your eye health, posture, and sleeping schedule. Not only does computer blue light cause discomfort in the eyes, but it also affects energy levels that then result in trouble falling asleep and sleep disruption. Prolonged exposure to blue light can also damage cells in the retina and cause vision problems. Another important factor to note is that our eyes are not used to staring at close objects for an extended period of time. This can result in you squinting your eyes very often and having tension in your neck.


DID YOU KNOW
Computer glasses can help digital eye strain and all the discomforts associated with computer work. 

Computer glasses not only feature lens coatings designed to block blue light but are also custom to your prescription and feature decentered pupillary distance. The prescription varies from person to person, which means buying one generic pair off the rack won’t be helpful. Instead, consult an eye care specialist.

When wearing computer glasses, all the harmful blue light is blocked by the lens coatings on your glasses, and only the beneficial blue light is able to pass through and reach your retina. It is important to remember that computer glasses or blue light glasses only block about 50% of blue light because blue light in small quantities is actually necessary for certain bodily functions and keeps your system healthy.

Who needs computer glasses?

Computer glasses are very useful for those who use technological devices daily and are prone to blue light exposure for many hours of the day. Almost all heavy users of computers and smartphones experience eye fatigue within minutes after being used. Studies show that the average person spends seven to eight hours in front of multiple electronic devices: from computers to mobile phones, gaming screens, TVs and so on. With technology being more and more present in our lives and our digital eye developing, our glasses should too. This is why computer glasses are more important than ever.

Do I need a different prescription for computer glasses?

The answer is yes, computer glasses will need a  prescription with an intermediate add, which should be discussed with your eye care specialist during your appointment. If you experience eye strain, blurry vision or any of the discomforts listed above, it is crucial to consult an eye care specialist before getting a new pair of glasses. Don’t underestimate the importance of getting your eyes checked.

Before going to your healthcare provider, make sure you make a list of all of the symptoms you’re experiencing. If you spend long hours in front of your computer, you’re going to want to measure the distance you usually have from your computer while working or studying. That may be an important detail for the optician to have when filling in your prescription.

Do computer glasses really work?

The real effectiveness of blue light glasses has always been up for debate. Even though their effectiveness has never been scientifically proven, research suggests that the benefits of blue light glasses can include less eye strain, fewer sleep disturbances, and a decrease in headaches. When it comes to computer glasses, these not only provide protection against blue light but have a custom prescription and decentered pupillary distance. This means that by using computer glasses during work, you will be able to see clearly and avoid leaning forward to your screens, keeping a better posture and not squinting your eyes.

Benefits of computer glasses

To sum up, using glasses for computer use comes with many benefits, such as:

  • Reduced computer vision syndrome
  • Good posture
  • Minimized glare
  • Protection from blue light

Where to find the perfect pair of computer reading glasses

If you’re suffering from computer vision syndrome and find yourself exhausted after working or studying in front of a computer, head to your eye care specialist and make sure you get your eyes checked. With your prescription up to date, you will then be able to buy the right pair of computer glasses for you with blue light-blocking lenses. You can head to SmartBuyGlasses and find many quality glasses with affordable options, as well as hundreds of lens types, frame colours, and materials.

You don’t have to decide on single-vision computer glasses – if the glasses are to serve you not only at the computer but also during other activities related to distance vision, consider using progressive lenses in your blue light-blocking glasses.

Remember it is essential for your eyes to rest, so after getting a good pair of computer glasses, make sure you also take breaks from the screens during your working and studying hours and limit screen use when possible. Your eye health is important.

If you want to read more about digital eye strain and blue light glasses, head to our Optical Centre; you will find numerous informative articles thoroughly reviewed by our certified opticians.

What Is Rimless Glasses – Everything You Need to Know

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What Is Rimless Glasses - Everything You Need to Know

What are rimless glasses? | Pros and Cons | With prescription | Lens material | Cost | How to adjust Rimless glasses | Alternatives

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Are frameless eyeglasses right for you? Find out!

We know the endless choices of frames are overwhelming, so why not make it easier and try a pair of rimless glasses? This article will cover what rimless glasses are and what you need to know before buying your first pair. 

Discover the pros and cons of wearing rimless glasses and whether they are an affordable alternative to prescription glasses for you.

What are rimless glasses?

Rimless glasses, or frameless eyeglasses, are glasses with no frame. The nose bridge connects the lenses, and the temples are directly attached to the lenses. 

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the first widely available version of rimless glasses came as prince-nez. These glasses pinched the nose and didn’t have earpieces. Manufacturers went to a great extent to keep these glasses secure on the nose. Around World War 1, a version with two temple arms and a nose bridge emerged.

 In the coming decades, various other structural improvements were implemented, including nose pads, changing the type of screws and different style variations. Rimless glasses help bring more focus to your face and allow for a subtle look. 

In the 21st century, frameless glasses are usually made with quality, lightweight and durable materials, such as titanium, as they are more delicate than standard glasses.

What are the pros and cons of rimless glasses?

Like any pair of glasses, rimless glasses have features that appeal to some people rather than others. Let’s look into why rimless glasses may or may not be for you.

What are the advantages of rimless eyeglasses?

  • Cost-effective
  • Subtle – nearly invisible on your face
  • Lightweight
  • You can look fashionable, professional, or casual, depending on the model

What are the disadvantages of rimless glasses?

  • Delicate and more prone to breakage since there’s no frame
  • Not for those who want their glasses to show off their vibrant personalities
  • Not available in all frames styles, for example, not as cat-eye glasses
  • Not available for all prescription lenses (see next paragraph)

Consider the pros and cons to decide whether rimless eyeglasses are for you. If you like them and need prescription lenses, then let’s find out if frameless eyeglasses are suitable for your vision.

Can I get rimless glasses with a high prescription?

Prescription rimless eyeglasses are not suitable for high prescriptions. Indeed, it is not recommended to wear your frameless glasses if your prescription is higher than -6.00. 

Strong prescriptions have thicker lenses and need extra support, like semi-rimeless and full-rim glasses in plastic or metal frames. However, depending on the lens material and your prescription details, you might get away with frameless glasses, even with a high index. Consult our certified online opticians for more advice. 

Progressive lenses can be fitted to a rimless pair of glasses and work as effectively as other progressive prescription glasses (always depending on your prescription). The same goes for tinted lenses and transitions. 

You should have a regular eye test to have an updated version of your prescription. If you are unsure what your existing prescription details are before buying a pair of rimless glasses, you can use our Lens Scanner tool to reveal them from your current glasses. 

Best lens material for rimless glasses

The lenses in frameless eyeglasses are more exposed than full or semi-rimmed glasses, so they’re more prone to breakage. Therefore, rimless glasses depend on certain types of lens materials. 

Standard plastic or glass lenses work best with full-rimmed glasses as they are fully covered. The lenses are more exposed in rimless glasses, and with glass or standard plastic lenses, they’d lack impact resistance. 

So, frameless eyeglasses depend on the quality and robust lens materials, and with high prescriptions, thicker lenses require more stability. 

High-quality plastic lenses, like Arise Collective™ Clarity Lenses  are a good option for frameless glasses with low prescriptions. They are lighter and thinner than standard glasses lenses and also offer UV protection and impact resistance. 

Higher prescriptions may require thicker lenses, which mean a heavier pair of glasses. High-index lenses are a great way to avoid heavy rimless glasses since they offer superior impact resistance.

DID YOU KNOW?
The best lens material for rimless glasses is high-quality plastic, such as our Arise Collective™ Clarity Lenses . With higher prescriptions, it is recommended to opt for high-index lenses for superior impact resistance and comfort.

How much do rimless glasses cost?

One of the pros of rimless eyewear is that it is cost-effective, so you won’t need to exceed your budget. 

You can find affordable rimless glasses and designer eyewear to suit your every eye need and personal style. If you love durable sporty glasses, try Oakley rimless glasses, or discover our Arise Collective for something more eco-chic.

How to adjust rimless glasses

Rimless glasses need extra delicacy when it comes to small repairings. To adjust loose screws, remove them from the frames, insert a new screw and tighten them with a jeweller’s screwdriver. Tighten it up to the point where it becomes difficult to turn to avoid cracking the lens where the hinge and lens meet. 

You can also slightly adjust the nose pads to make the glasses sit higher or lower on your face. Be careful when doing this with rimless progressive glasses, as they may alter your vision while wearing them. Undoubtedly, it’s always best to visit your local opticians for assistance.

Alternatives to rimless glasses

So, what are rimless glasses? Imagine a pair of prescription glasses without a frame, just the lenses, nose bridge and temples. 

After reading our article, you should have a better understanding of why some people prefer to wear rimless glasses and may want to try them yourself. 

Remember to take extra care of frameless glasses, as the lenses do not have the additional support full or semi-rimmed glasses may offer. 

If you’ve decided that rimless glasses are not the best option for your needs, you may want to explore different types of glasses to find what you love among trendy and practical everyday eyewear.

What Is Rimless Glasses - Everything You Need to Know

What are rimless glasses? | Pros and Cons | With prescription | Lens material | Cost | How to adjust Rimless glasses | Alternatives

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Are frameless eyeglasses right for you? Find out!

We know the endless choices of frames are overwhelming, so why not make it easier and try a pair of rimless glasses? This article will cover what rimless glasses are and what you need to know before buying your first pair.

Discover the pros and cons of wearing rimless glasses and whether they are an affordable alternative to prescription glasses for you.

What are rimless glasses?

Rimless glasses, or frameless eyeglasses, are glasses with no frame. The nose bridge connects the lenses, and the temples are directly attached to the lenses. 

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the first widely available version of rimless glasses came as prince-nez. These glasses pinched the nose and didn’t have earpieces. Manufacturers went to a great extent to keep these glasses secure on the nose. Around World War 1, a version with two temple arms and a nose bridge emerged.

 In the coming decades, various other structural improvements were implemented, including nose pads, changing the type of screws and different style variations. Rimless glasses help bring more focus to your face and allow for a subtle look. 

In the 21st century, frameless glasses are usually made with quality, lightweight and durable materials, such as titanium, as they are more delicate than standard glasses.

What are the pros and cons of rimless glasses?

Like any pair of glasses, rimless glasses have features that appeal to some people rather than others. Let’s look into why rimless glasses may or may not be for you.

  • Cost-effective
  • Subtle – nearly invisible on your face 
  • Lightweight
  • You can look fashionable, professional, or casual, depending on the model

What are the disadvantages of rimless glasses?

  • Delicate and more prone to breakage since there’s no frame 
  • Not for those who want their glasses to show off their vibrant personalities
  • Not available in all frames styles, for example, not as cat-eye glasses
  • Not available for all prescription lenses (see next paragraph)

 

Consider the pros and cons to decide whether rimless eyeglasses are for you. If you like them and need prescription lenses, then let’s find out if frameless eyeglasses are suitable for your vision.

Can I get rimless glasses with a high prescription?

Prescription rimless eyeglasses are not suitable for high prescriptions. Indeed, it is not recommended to wear your frameless glasses if your prescription is higher than -6.00. 

Strong prescriptions have thicker lenses and need extra support, like semi-rimeless and full-rim glasses in plastic or metal frames. However, depending on the lens material and your prescription details, you might get away with frameless glasses, even with a high index. Consult our certified online opticians for more advice. 

Progressive lenses can be fitted to a rimless pair of glasses and work as effectively as other progressive prescription glasses (always depending on your prescription). The same goes for tinted lenses and transitions. 

You should have a regular eye test to have an updated version of your prescription. If you are unsure what your existing prescription is before buying a pair of rimless glasses, you can use our Lens Scanner tool and get the result straight to your phone.

Best lens material for rimless glasses

The lenses in frameless eyeglasses are more exposed than full or semi-rimmed glasses, so they’re more prone to breakage. Therefore, rimless glasses depend on certain types of lens materials. 

Standard plastic or glass lenses work best with full-rimmed glasses as they are fully covered. The lenses are more exposed in rimless glasses, and with glass or standard plastic lenses, they’d lack impact resistance. 

So, frameless eyeglasses depend on the quality and robust lens materials, and with high prescriptions, thicker lenses require more stability. 

High-quality plastic lenses, like Arise Collective™ Clarity Lenses  are a good option for frameless glasses with low prescriptions. They are lighter and thinner than standard glasses lenses and also offer UV protection and impact resistance. 

Higher prescriptions may require thicker lenses, which mean a heavier pair of glasses. High-index lenses are a great way to avoid heavy rimless glasses since they offer superior impact resistance.

DID YOU KNOW?
The best lens material for rimless glasses is high-quality plastic, such as our Arise Collective™ Clarity Lenses . With higher prescriptions, it is recommended to opt for high-index lenses for superior impact resistance and comfort.

How much do rimless glasses cost?

One of the pros of rimless eyewear is that it is cost-effective, so you won’t need to exceed your budget. 

You can find affordable rimless glasses and designer eyewear to suit your every eye need and personal style.

If you love durable sporty glasses, try Oakley rimless glasses, or discover our Arise Collective for something more eco-chic.

How to adjust rimless glasses

Rimless glasses need extra delicacy when it comes to small repairings. To adjust loose screws, remove them from the frames, insert a new screw and tighten them with a jeweller’s screwdriver. Tighten it up to the point where it becomes difficult to turn to avoid cracking the lens where the hinge and lens meet. 

You can also slightly adjust the nose pads to make the glasses sit higher or lower on your face. Be careful when doing this with rimless progressive glasses, as they may alter your vision while wearing them. 

Undoubtedly, it’s always best to visit your local opticians for assistance.

Alternatives to rimless glasses

So, what are rimless glasses? Imagine a pair of prescription glasses without a frame, just the lenses, nose bridge and temples. 

After reading our article, you should have a better understanding of why some people prefer to wear rimless glasses and may want to try them yourself. 

Remember to take extra care of frameless glasses, as the lenses do not have the additional support full or semi-rimmed glasses may offer. 

If you’ve decided that rimless glasses are not the best option for your needs, you may want to explore different types of glasses to find what you love among trendy and practical everyday eyewear.

How to Adjust Glasses

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How to Adjust Glasses

Adjust your glasses at home | Lenses are at different distances | Keep glasses from sliding down your nose | Adjust glasses behind your ears | Adjust crooked glasses | Tighten glasses with screwdriver | Optimal glasses adjustment

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023

If you wear prescription glasses, you’ll know that not only is it uncomfortable when your glasses don’t fit, but it also affects your quality of vision. 

When your optician or eye doctor gives you measurements, such as your pupillary distance, it’s based on your glasses fitting correctly. 

Keep reading to learn how to adjust glasses to improve fit for comfort and the best vision.

Can I adjust my glasses at home?

Sometimes new glasses, or glasses you wear often, can be misaligned for different reasons. Before bringing them to an optician, you can learn easy ways to make small adjustments and fix the most common issues.

The first thing to consider when learning to adjust glasses is the frame material you are working with. Metal frames and plastic frames will need to be handled differently. 

For instance, most plastic frame glasses do not have adjustable nose pads. However, many plastic frames nowadays have pads on arms for a more comfortable fit.

To tell whether or not it’s necessary to adjust glasses, set the glasses upside down on a flat surface with the  sides open, the sides should both be sitting flat on the table and not rock. If they do, they might need some small adjustments.

How to adjust glasses if the lenses are different distances from your eyes?

To adjust glasses when your left lens is closer to your eye, you can gently bend in on the left temple of the arm and out on the right temple simultaneously. Bend the opposite way if your right lens is the one closest to your eye. Be careful not to apply excessive force.

How do I keep my glasses from sliding down my nose?

If your glasses slide off your nose, the first thing to do is tighten them behind your ears. 

On metal frames, you can also adjust the nose pads to raise or lower the lenses to adjust the fit.

If you have adjustable nose pads, simply push the nose pads closer together with your fingers until they sit comfortably on your nose without leaving marks. If your nose pads leave marks, make the opposite motion with the nose pads or temples.

How do you adjust glasses around your ears?

If your glasses are too tight around your ears, bend the tips out and up. For wire frames, this might be easier to do.

If your glasses don’t bend easily (usually if they are made of acetate or plastic), you can always heat them where you intend to bend them. Make sure the heat source does not touch the lenses, as it might ruin the coatings and cause damage.

How to adjust crooked glasses

Again, for lenses of different heights, you’ll need to adjust the glasses’ arms. If the left lens is higher than the right, you’ll want to bend up the temple at the arm’s hinge on the right side. Do the opposite if the right lens is higher than the left one.

How to tighten glasses with a screwdriver

All types of eyeglasses have hinges held together by tiny screws. These screws are usually the first things that might need adjustments in your glasses. It’s important to check regularly if the screws are loose to avoid losing them. If they are, you might need to use a screwdriver to adjust them. 

Most glasses repair kits include screws and a small screwdriver specifically made for glasses. With the help of the screwdriver, carefully tighten the screws at the corners of the temples. Tighten them as much as possible, then loosen them by a half turn to ensure no strain is put on the sides. 

Avoid fixing your glasses yourself if a screw comes out or an arm separates. Instead, get your spectacles properly adjusted by an optician.

DID YOU KNOW?
If the screws of your glasses are a bit loose, you can use a small screwdriver to adjust them. Tighten them as much as you can, but be sure not to apply too much force.

Ask an optician for optimal glasses adjustments

If you’re unsure about adjusting glasses yourself, the best thing to do is to go to an optician for help. Some types of eyeglasses, such as rimless and semi-rimless ones, usually need more care and experience as they are more fragile than fully-rimmed eyeglass frames. 

Opticians are also the best option for adjusting metal frames better, especially if you need to adjust one nose pad arm or both of them.

If you need help with what to do with your current or new pair of glasses, you can contact one of our certified online opticians. They can advise you on what is best to do in your situation. 

You can also check out our Optical Center, an extensive information platform where you can find answers and explanations of all things related to eye care and glasses.

How to Adjust Glasses

Adjust your glasses at home | Lenses are at different distances | Keep glasses from sliding down your nose | Adjust glasses behind your ears | Adjust crooked glasses | Tighten glasses with screwdriver | Optimal glasses adjustment

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023

If you wear prescription glasses, you’ll know that not only is it uncomfortable when your glasses don’t fit, but it also affects your quality of vision. 

When your optician or eye doctor gives you measurements, such as your pupillary distance, it’s based on your glasses fitting correctly. 

Keep reading to learn how to adjust glasses to improve fit for comfort and the best vision.

Can I adjust my glasses at home?

Sometimes new glasses, or glasses you wear often, can be misaligned for different reasons. Before bringing them to an optician, you can learn easy ways to make small adjustments and fix the most common issues.

The first thing to consider when learning to adjust glasses is the frame material you are working with. Metal frames and plastic frames will need to be handled differently. 

For instance, most plastic frame glasses do not have adjustable nose pads. However, many plastic frames nowadays have pads on arms for a more comfortable fit.

To tell whether or not it’s necessary to adjust glasses, set the glasses upside down on a flat surface with the  sides open, the sides should both be sitting flat on the table and not rock. If they do, they might need some small adjustments.

How to adjust glasses if the lenses are different distances from your eyes?

To adjust glasses when your left lens is closer to your eye, you can gently bend in on the left temple of the arm and out on the right temple simultaneously.

Bend the opposite way if your right lens is the one closest to your eye. Be careful not to apply excessive force.

How do I keep my glasses from sliding down my nose?

If your glasses slide off your nose, the first thing to do is tighten them behind your ears. 

On metal frames, you can also adjust the nose pads to raise or lower the lenses to adjust the fit. If you have adjustable nose pads, simply push the nose pads closer together with your fingers until they sit comfortably on your nose without leaving marks.

If your nose pads leave marks, make the opposite motion with the nose pads or temples.

How do you adjust glasses around your ears?

If your glasses are too tight around your ears, bend the tips out and up. For wire frames, this might be easier to do.

If your glasses don’t bend easily (usually if they are made of acetate or plastic), you can always heat them where you intend to bend them.

Make sure the heat source does not touch the lenses, as it might ruin the coatings and cause damage.

How to adjust crooked glasses

Again, for lenses of different heights, you’ll need to adjust the glasses’ arms. If the left lens is higher than the right, you’ll want to bend up the temple at the arm’s hinge on the right side. Do the opposite if the right lens is higher than the left one.

How to tighten glasses with a screwdriver

All types of eyeglasses have hinges held together by tiny screws. These screws are usually the first things that might need adjustments in your glasses.

It’s important to check regularly if the screws are loose to avoid losing them. If they are, you might need to use a screwdriver to adjust them. 

Most glasses repair kits include screws and a small screwdriver specifically made for glasses. With the help of the screwdriver, carefully tighten the screws at the corners of the temples. Tighten them as much as possible, then loosen them by a half turn to ensure no strain is put on the sides. 

Avoid fixing your glasses yourself if a screw comes out or an arm separates. Instead, get your spectacles properly adjusted by an optician.

DID YOU KNOW?
If the screws of your glasses are a bit loose, you can use a small screwdriver to adjust them. Tighten them as much as you can, but be sure not to apply too much force.

Ask an optician for optimal glasses adjustments

If you’re unsure about adjusting glasses yourself, the best thing to do is to go to an optician for help. Some types of eyeglasses, such as rimless and semi-rimless ones, usually need more care and experience as they are more fragile than fully-rimmed eyeglass frames. 

Opticians are also the best option for adjusting metal frames better, especially if you need to adjust one nose pad arm or both of them.

If you need help with what to do with your current or new pair of glasses, you can contact one of our certified online opticians. They can advise you on what is best to do in your situation. 

You can also check out our Optical Center, an extensive information platform where you can find answers and explanations of all things related to eye care and glasses.

Thinnest Lenses for High Prescription – What Are My Options?

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Thinnest Lenses for High Prescription Glasses- What Are My Options?

What are the thinnest lenses for high-prescription glasses? | Thinnest eyeglass lenses at SmartBuyGlasses | Are 1.74 lenses worth it? | Are the thinnest eyeglass lenses for me?

By Hannah Tinning
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Apr 04, 2023
Lenses with a 1.74 index are the thinnest lenses for high-prescription wearers. They include many benefits like a scratch resistance coating and UV protection.

Finding glasses with thin and aesthetically pleasing lenses can be challenging for those with high prescriptions. Thick lenses can create the “coke bottle effect” protruding from the face and limiting your frame options. Not only do they look unappealing, but they also add extra weight, discomfort and risk of damage to the glasses. Luckily, advancements in manufacturing techniques have made it possible to create extra-thin lenses for glasses wearers with high prescriptions.

What are the thinnest lenses for high-prescription glasses?

What are the thinnest lenses for high-prescription glasses?

The thinnest lenses for high-prescription glasses are lenses that have a 1.74 index. These lenses are made from high-index plastic, which allows for a thinner and lighter lens compared to traditional lenses made from regular plastic.

The thin profile of 1.74 index lenses is thanks to the flatter curve that is utilised compared to standard, lower index lenses. Using a flatter curve, however, can lead to peripheral distortion. This is counteracted by integrating aspheric lens technology, which eliminates spherical aberration. 

Thanks to the development of high-index lenses, manufacturers can provide far slimmer eyewear lenses than in the past. If you are accustomed to a strong prescription in standard plastic, then making the change could significantly affect the thickness of your lenses. While even the thinnest lens cannot entirely hide the thickness of a high prescription lens 100%, it will drastically reduce how much it is seen. 

Thinnest eyeglass lenses at SmartBuyGlasses

Thinnest eyeglass lenses at SmartBuyGlasses

At SmartBuyGlasses, there’s a variety of lens indexes you can select from that cater to different prescription needs. From standard 1.50 index lenses to high-index lenses such as 1.67 and 1.74, a range of options ensures you can find the right lens you need. You can also select Arise Collective™ Clarity lenses that provide breakthrough lens technologies, optimised visual acuity and state-of-the-art protection for any prescription and frame.

The higher the index lens, the more beneficial it will be if you have a strong prescription. Thanks to the reduced thickness and weight, you’ll still achieve comfortable wear and an aesthetically pleasing look. However, when selecting your lens index, you want to make sure you’re consulting your eye doctor before making the decision yourself. 

If you decide to go with the thinnest glasses lenses, you can choose from a range of different frame styles. With a 1.74 lens index, you can explore styles with delicate metal frames.  

DID YOU KNOW
At SmartBuyGlasses, lenses with a 1.74 lens index are ultra-thin and come with four lens coatings. With flatter Aspheric technology to improve your vision and enhance the aesthetics of your eyewear, they are the complete optical lens solution.

Are 1.74 lenses worth it?

Are 1.74 lenses worth it?

1.74 index lenses are worth it for individuals with strong prescriptions who want thin, lightweight glasses. However, they do come at a higher cost than lenses that use older technology and present lesser qualities. Of course, the higher price point comes from the thinness and the incorporated benefits.

  •  Weight. 1.74 index lenses can be more than 25% lighter than normal plastic lenses and more than 50% lighter than glass lenses.
  • Scratch resistance. High-index lenses have a higher resistance to scratches than standard plastic meaning you can dodge the hassle of distracting marks in your field of vision.
  • UV protection. 1.74 index lenses have UV400 protection which means they can filter out up to 99% of UVA and UVB rays.
  • Aspheric technology. They have a flatter surface, which results in clearer, more natural vision.
  • Anti-reflective. These high-index lenses will also aid in reducing glare and reflections, resulting in better visual clarity and less eye strain.
  • Super-hydrophobic. At SmartBuyGlasses, these lenses come with a super-hydrophobic coating that repels water, dust and dirt, keeping the lenses cleaner and clearer.

Are the thinnest eyeglass lenses for me?

Are the thinnest eyeglass lenses for me?

If you face the challenge of having a high prescription and finding glasses with thin lenses, then 1.74 index lenses might be for you. The benefits of thin lens glasses include being ultra-thin and lightweight, scratch-resistant, UV protected and super-hydrophobic. It’s important to note that you should always consult an eye doctor or one of our online opticians before deciding on your next pair of prescription glasses.  

Glasses For Small Faces: Tips on Getting the Perfect Eyewear Fit

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Glasses For Small Faces: Tips on Getting the Perfect Eyewear Fit

Wondering if you need glasses for small faces? Have you ever been shopping for glasses and found that no matter how many pairs you try on, you still look like you have massive bug eyes? Glasses that drown your features, overpower your face and slide off your nose? If you can relate, you most likely have a small face shape and would benefit from buying glasses for small faces.

There are plenty of brands that now manufacture petite glasses specifically for narrow face shapes. This means that you can find the perfect pair, pull off the most stylish of looks and be trendy with your eyewear, no matter your face shape and size.

 

How should glasses for small faces fit

Comfort is the number one factor here. The aim of glasses for small faces is to provide a better, more secure fit without compromising comfort. So when you try on a pair of glasses for small faces, ensure they are the right size and feel secure without squeezing your head. Glasses for small faces are designed to have a shorter lens width, shorter temple arms and a narrower bridge frame. 

Many people with a narrower face shape resort to wearing children’s sunglasses. However, this often involves temples that are too short. Glasses for small faces are, therefore, the perfect solution, offering frame arms that are slightly longer than those on kids’ eyewear.

 

How to find out if you need glasses for small faces

There are several ways to find out if you need a smaller size of glasses.

 

Option 1) Find out what size your current glasses are. Look at the inside of the glasses frames and note the numbers that appear. Read on to find out what the measurements mean. Add a few millimetres to the measurements if you feel they are too tight, or reduce the number if they are too large when you wear them. 

 

Option 2) Take a ruler or flexible measuring tape. To find your face width, stretch the measuring tool from temple to temple. Next, repeat the action across your jawline. This starts roughly an inch below your ear. Pick the larger of the two measurements: this is your face width. Now you need to find your face length. Go from your chin to the middle of your hairline. And here comes the maths: divide your face height by your face width. If you have a narrow face, your face height will be over 1.5 times the width.

 

Option 3) The process is considerably more straightforward if you already know your eye and bridge size. Simply follow this equation:

Eye size + bridge size = frame size

Eg. 47mm + 21mm = 68mm

 

Average frame sizes

In general, spectacles will look their best when the total width of the face matches that of the glasses frames. When considering glasses for small faces in particular, it is actually not a problem if the frame size is equal to, if not wider than, the face width. This means you should not worry if your glasses frames extend beyond your temples by about 3mm on each side. This widens the appearance of the face, creating a sense of balance with the length of the face.

For average face sizes, the frame width is generally 138mm wide. In contrast, a narrower face will require a frame width of nearer 126mm, which is quite a significant difference. If you find your face measurements within these figure ranges, you might want to consider wearing glasses for narrow faces. Here are some typical measurements for glasses for small faces.

 

 

Total frame width: 123-127mm (114-122mm for properly petite faces)

Lens width: 47-50mm (45-46mm for tiny faces)

Bridge width: 16-20mm (15-16mm for the narrowest of faces)

 

The lens width quoted here will offer a narrow fit in most frame shapes. However, round frames are an exception. Round frames tend to have slightly wider bridges and more petite lenses. On average, 43-48mm represents a typical lens width in round glasses for small faces. Due to the smaller lens size, the bridge size will be 2 or 3mm wider than that of other frame shapes.

 

Tips for checking that your glasses for small faces fit you well

Simply put, small glasses that fit properly will have frames that closely match the width of your face. In addition, the bridge will sit comfortably on your nose. A plastic fix bridge should sit flush at each side of the nose; there should be no gap at the top of the bridge on the frame and the bridge of the nose. Metal frames with nose pads can be adjusted by moving the pads out or in to loosen or tighten the fit at the bridge. In addition, your eyes will be perfectly centred in the middle of the lens.

 

Those are the basics. Next, you want to double-check that the glasses fit securely on your face. If you can fit a finger down between the side of the frame and your temple, then it’s too big and won’t be able to be adjusted. The issue will only worsen and get especially bad in warm weather.

 

If the frames pass this test, they can move on to the next round! In this next step, you want to be 100% sure that the glasses fit comfortably on your head and don’t feel too tight. If when putting the glasses on, the sides stretch out, it will be too tight and will leave red marks down the side of the face. This would stop you from wearing the spectacles for long periods. When trying on the frames, one way to check this is to see if there are any red marks or a hint of indentation behind your ears when you remove them. If you do find such a mark, choose a different pair.

 

Yet another checkpoint before buying petite glasses is how flush they are to your face. Consider whether your eyelashes are touching the lenses. This can be adjusted in most metal frames but not so easily in plastic frames. 9 out of 10 frames will have a slight tilt in them to accommodate this. You need to ensure that your eyes can move freely without your lashes coming into contact with the glasses. At this point, it is important to remember that your prescription lenses will be thicker than the test pair.

 

One final pointer to consider before settling on a pair of eyeglasses for small faces is where they sit on your face. Make sure the frames rest on the bridge of your nose rather than your cheekbones. The glasses don’t fit you correctly if the frames move as you switch between facial expressions.

 

Tips for choosing glasses for small faces

Once you’ve found a few pairs that meet the measurement criteria and pass all the good-fit and style tests, you can consider the frame design that will be most flattering for your narrow face.

People with smaller faces often find that more delicate frames, such as metal frames or thin acetate ones, are more flattering. Such petite frames complement their petite features and narrow face shapes. Another thing with glasses for narrow faces is that narrow frames draw more attention to your eyes. Therefore, it is recommended to find an acetate frame, the colour of which matches your eyes. It will make your eyes stand out and make the glasses look perfectly natural on your face.

 

Best glasses shape for small faces

Here are some quick tips for finding the frames that complement your face shape. Find your face shape with the helpful guide here.

Oval face shape: 

– Narrow frames will make your face appear overly long

– Find frames with more height, such as round or square glasses

– Thicker frames with wider lenses or aesthetic embellishments will help widen your face

 

Short face shape: 

– Tall frames will cause your face to look swamped in the glasses

– Go for shorter frame shapes like rectangular or oval

– Avoid oversized or pilot frames. These would accentuate the short face shape

– Be cautious with extra thick frames or black frames, as these could make your face look even smaller

 

Pear-shaped face: 

– Go for frames that are heavier on the top, such as browline glasses

 

Round face shape: 

– For round faces, we recommend more angular glasses frames with plenty of character, such as cat eye frames

– Square frames with bold colours will project a look of total confidence

 

Square face shape: 

– As the exact opposite of round face shapes, balance a square face with round or oval frames for a softer look

 

Diamond or Heart-Shaped face: 

– Take the focus off the pointed chin with a pair of browline glasses or classic cat eye frames

 

Prescription glasses for narrow faces

The two most important things to consider when choosing a  pair of glasses for small faces are your face shape and the lens index. The lens index depends on your prescription details; the higher the prescription, the higher the index. Ask your eye doctor or one of our opticians for advice on the best lens index for your prescription. 

Glasses that fit you properly are essential to ensure your prescription lenses do their job. Your eyes must be centred in the lenses to guarantee clarity of vision. 

As a general rule, positive prescriptions result in larger-looking eyes. Therefore, those with higher prescriptions should be careful of looking “bug-eyed” due to thicker lenses. On the other hand, high negative prescriptions can cause the lenses to peek out at the side of the frames. To help remedy this combination, avoid rimless glasses for small faces. A solution for higher prescriptions could be choosing thinner lenses that will reduce the magnification of the eye. For high negative prescriptions, plastic frames will help hide the thickness.

 

What glasses look good on a small face?

In this article, we have gathered all the tips to find the perfect eyewear fit. The most important things to know when shopping for glasses for a smaller face are your face shape and size. With this information and by following our tips and guidelines, it will be easy to find the perfect glasses. Remember that the same tips also apply to sunglasses, blue light glasses and any other type of glasses. If you have any further doubts or questions, you can always reach out to our team of certified online opticians for support.

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Glasses For Small Faces: Tips on Getting the Perfect Eyewear Fit

Wondering if you need glasses for small faces? Have you ever been shopping for glasses and found that no matter how many pairs you try on, you still look like you have massive bug eyes? Glasses that drown your features, overpower your face and slide off your nose? If you can relate, you most likely have a small face shape and would benefit from buying glasses for small faces.

There are plenty of brands that now manufacture petite glasses specifically for narrow face shapes. This means that you can find the perfect pair, pull off the most stylish of looks and be trendy with your eyewear, no matter your face shape and size.

 

How should glasses for small faces fit

Comfort is the number one factor here. The aim of glasses for small faces is to provide a better, more secure fit without compromising comfort. So when you try on a pair of glasses for small faces, ensure they are the right size and feel secure without squeezing your head. Glasses for small faces are designed to have a shorter lens width, shorter temple arms and a narrower bridge frame. 

Many people with a narrower face shape resort to wearing children’s sunglasses. However, this often involves temples that are too short. Glasses for small faces are, therefore, the perfect solution, offering frame arms that are slightly longer than those on kids’ eyewear.

 

How to find out if you need glasses for small faces

There are several ways to find out if you need a smaller size of glasses.

 

Option 1) Find out what size your current glasses are. Look at the inside of the glasses frames and note the numbers that appear. Read on to find out what the measurements mean. Add a few millimetres to the measurements if you feel they are too tight, or reduce the number if they are too large when you wear them. 

 

Option 2) Take a ruler or flexible measuring tape. To find your face width, stretch the measuring tool from temple to temple. Next, repeat the action across your jawline. This starts roughly an inch below your ear. Pick the larger of the two measurements: this is your face width. Now you need to find your face length. Go from your chin to the middle of your hairline. And here comes the maths: divide your face height by your face width. If you have a narrow face, your face height will be over 1.5 times the width.

 

Option 3) The process is considerably more straightforward if you already know your eye and bridge size. Simply follow this equation:

Eye size + bridge size = frame size

Eg. 47mm + 21mm = 68mm

 

Average frame sizes

In general, spectacles will look their best when the total width of the face matches that of the glasses frames. When considering glasses for small faces in particular, it is actually not a problem if the frame size is equal to, if not wider than, the face width. This means you should not worry if your glasses frames extend beyond your temples by about 3mm on each side. This widens the appearance of the face, creating a sense of balance with the length of the face.

For average face sizes, the frame width is generally 138mm wide. In contrast, a narrower face will require a frame width of nearer 126mm, which is quite a significant difference. If you find your face measurements within these figure ranges, you might want to consider wearing glasses for narrow faces. Here are some typical measurements for glasses for small faces.

Total frame width: 123-127mm (114-122mm for properly petite faces)

Lens width: 47-50mm (45-46mm for tiny faces)

Bridge width: 16-20mm (15-16mm for the narrowest of faces)

The lens width quoted here will offer a narrow fit in most frame shapes. However, round frames are an exception. Round frames tend to have slightly wider bridges and more petite lenses. On average, 43-48mm represents a typical lens width in round glasses for small faces. Due to the smaller lens size, the bridge size will be 2 or 3mm wider than that of other frame shapes.

 

Tips for checking that your glasses for small faces fit you well

Simply put, small glasses that fit properly will have frames that closely match the width of your face. In addition, the bridge will sit comfortably on your nose. A plastic fix bridge should sit flush at each side of the nose; there should be no gap at the top of the bridge on the frame and the bridge of the nose. Metal frames with nose pads can be adjusted by moving the pads out or in to loosen or tighten the fit at the bridge. In addition, your eyes will be perfectly centred in the middle of the lens.

 

Those are the basics. Next, you want to double-check that the glasses fit securely on your face. If you can fit a finger down between the side of the frame and your temple, then it’s too big and won’t be able to be adjusted. The issue will only worsen and get especially bad in warm weather.

 

If the frames pass this test, they can move on to the next round! In this next step, you want to be 100% sure that the glasses fit comfortably on your head and don’t feel too tight. If when putting the glasses on, the sides stretch out, it will be too tight and will leave red marks down the side of the face. This would stop you from wearing the spectacles for long periods. When trying on the frames, one way to check this is to see if there are any red marks or a hint of indentation behind your ears when you remove them. If you do find such a mark, choose a different pair.

 

Yet another checkpoint before buying petite glasses is how flush they are to your face. Consider whether your eyelashes are touching the lenses. This can be adjusted in most metal frames but not so easily in plastic frames. 9 out of 10 frames will have a slight tilt in them to accommodate this. You need to ensure that your eyes can move freely without your lashes coming into contact with the glasses. At this point, it is important to remember that your prescription lenses will be thicker than the test pair.

 

One final pointer to consider before settling on a pair of eyeglasses for small faces is where they sit on your face. Make sure the frames rest on the bridge of your nose rather than your cheekbones. The glasses don’t fit you correctly if the frames move as you switch between facial expressions.

 

Tips for choosing glasses for small faces

Once you’ve found a few pairs that meet the measurement criteria and pass all the good-fit and style tests, you can consider the frame design that will be most flattering for your narrow face.

People with smaller faces often find that more delicate frames, such as metal frames or thin acetate ones, are more flattering. Such petite frames complement their petite features and narrow face shapes. Another thing with glasses for narrow faces is that narrow frames draw more attention to your eyes. Therefore, it is recommended to find an acetate frame, the colour of which matches your eyes. It will make your eyes stand out and make the glasses look perfectly natural on your face.

 

Best glasses shape for small faces

Here are some quick tips for finding the frames that complement your face shape. Find your face shape with the helpful guide here.

Oval face shape: 

– Narrow frames will make your face appear overly long

– Find frames with more height, such as round or square glasses

– Thicker frames with wider lenses or aesthetic embellishments will help widen your face

 

Short face shape: 

– Tall frames will cause your face to look swamped in the glasses

– Go for shorter frame shapes like rectangular or oval

– Avoid oversized or pilot frames. These would accentuate the short face shape

– Be cautious with extra thick frames or black frames, as these could make your face look even smaller

 

Pear-shaped face: 

– Go for frames that are heavier on the top, such as browline glasses

 

Round face shape: 

– For round faces, we recommend more angular glasses frames with plenty of character, such as cat eye frames

– Square frames with bold colours will project a look of total confidence

 

Square face shape: 

– As the exact opposite of round face shapes, balance a square face with round or oval frames for a softer look

 

Diamond or Heart-Shaped face: 

– Take the focus off the pointed chin with a pair of browline glasses or classic cat eye frames

 

Prescription glasses for narrow faces

The two most important things to consider when choosing a  pair of glasses for small faces are your face shape and the lens index. The lens index depends on your prescription details; the higher the prescription, the higher the index. Ask your eye doctor or one of our opticians for advice on the best lens index for your prescription. 

Glasses that fit you properly are essential to ensure your prescription lenses do their job. Your eyes must be centred in the lenses to guarantee clarity of vision. 

As a general rule, positive prescriptions result in larger-looking eyes. Therefore, those with higher prescriptions should be careful of looking “bug-eyed” due to thicker lenses. On the other hand, high negative prescriptions can cause the lenses to peek out at the side of the frames. To help remedy this combination, avoid rimless glasses for small faces. A solution for higher prescriptions could be choosing thinner lenses that will reduce the magnification of the eye. For high negative prescriptions, plastic frames will help hide the thickness.

 

What glasses look good on a small face?

In this article, we have gathered all the tips to find the perfect eyewear fit. The most important things to know when shopping for glasses for a smaller face are your face shape and size. With this information and by following our tips and guidelines, it will be easy to find the perfect glasses. Remember that the same tips also apply to sunglasses, blue light glasses and any other type of glasses. If you have any further doubts or questions, you can always reach out to our team of certified online opticians for support.

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