What Does Asian Fit Mean?

Ask our opticians

Ask now

What Are Asian Fit Glasses?

Depending on your facial features, Asian fit glasses may be the best for you. They have special features that give you the most comfortable fit and stops the frames from sliding down your nose.

SUMMARY

Asian fit glasses are specially designed with a lower bridge to better fit unique facial features, such as a lower nose bridge, higher cheekbones and a rounder face shape.

This design provides a comfortable fit that prevents the frames from sliding down the nose, pressing against the cheeks, or feeling tight around the temples.

If you are having problems with your glasses fitting your face comfortably, then this article all about Asian fit has the answers you are looking for.

Do you find that your glasses sit tightly, always slide down your nose or sit too close to your eyelashes? Then maybe your face is telling you to upgrade to a pair that fits your facial features the way they are supposed to.

What does Asian fit mean in glasses?

We all look different and we all have different facial features. Just think about how, nowadays, anyone can unlock their phone by simply placing it in front of their face.

When choosing a pair of glasses, remember that what fits your face won’t necessarily fit another – just like your face is the only one to unlock your phone. It could be your eye shape, bone structure and so on.

Do you feel that your glasses do not correctly fit your face because they are too tight at the temples or always slip down your nose? For people with lower nose bridges and high cheekbones in particular this is a common issue. Due to the diversity among facial features, standard glasses aren’t always the right fit.

We have a solution!

Asian fit glasses are designed specifically to help avoid these issues. Also known as low bridge fit glasses or Omni fit, Asian fit eyewear can be more comfortable for people of Asian descent but is also not limited to them.

Asian fit sunglasses and glasses cater to specific facial features. If your answer is yes to any of these questions below, then you may want to consider getting yourself a pair of low bridge fit glasses:

Do you have flatter facial features?
A rounder and wider face?
A low nose bridge and/or higher cheekbones?

If you’ve said yes to 1 or more of the above questions, then sit back and let’s have a look at what your face is saying.

Humans have adapted to their environment and climate for centuries, and based on these factors, our bodies have mutated to fit our surroundings, even our facial features.

Our noses, for example, have adapted to diverse climates, and if you live in a more humid climate, you’ll tend to have a wider nose to allow for more air to flow.

Facial features

In the Asian community, many tend to have a lower nasal bridge, the part that is between your eyes and close to your forehead. Therefore the bridge of your nose is lower than your pupils, making it harder for the glasses to sit correctly on your face and align with your vision.

If you have higher cheekbones, your glasses will tend to touch your cheeks, so when you talk or smile, you’ll see your glasses move as well. If your eyewear is always leaning on your cheeks, it can be uncomfortable.

With a wider and rounder face, standard glasses can be a little tighter around the temples or quite often sit too high on your face.

Can non-Asians wear Asian fit glasses?

Whether you are from an Asian community or not, having these particular facial features may entail that Asian fit glasses are designed specifically for you. If you have a smaller face shape you may also opt for an Asian fit.

What is the difference between Asian fit and standard fit?

Now that we’ve established who and for which particular facial features Asian fit glasses are, we can see exactly how they work.

3 main aspects make Asian fit glasses a little different from Standard fit glasses:

Asian-fit glasses are designed with larger nose pads that ensure the glasses sit correctly on your face and away from your eyelashes. Standard fit glasses, instead, have a shorter bridge meaning that they may not fit well if you have a low nose bridge.
The lenses are shorter, wider, and slightly tilted. This helps prevent the glasses from constantly touching your cheek and helps to create a gap between your face and the lenses. With your glasses sitting further away from your face, you’ll also reduce the risk of your eyewear fogging up, a pain every glasses wearer endures.
The frame is wider and slightly curved for rounder and prominent heart face shapes, to prevent the glasses from being too tight at the temples or sitting too high on your face.

Round and heart-shaped faces tend to have a wider forehead which means that some regular or smaller size glasses would be too tight and squeeze your face. If you are not entirely sure what your face shape is, you can easily find out with our shape face guide.

Are Asian fit glasses smaller?

Just like any clothing item that we wear, even glasses have a particular size, whether they are standard fit or Asian fit. They are smaller in some aspects, but it will depend on the measurement.

Sunglasses, and glasses in general, have 3 different measurements:

The first measurement indicates your lens width
The second number is the width of the bridge
The third is the temple width

Extra nose pad features

For Onmi fit glasses, you want to ensure that the bridge or nose pads have the right size to sit correctly on your nose. The size can also differ depending on the frame material used.

Generally, bridge measurements on standard-fit glasses vary from 14-24 mm, but if it is too wide on your nose bridge, the glasses may slip down.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are many differences between Asian and Standard fit glasses. Finding out if you need Asian fit can make your experience much more comfortable.

Frame type

Plastic frames with a solid nose bridge for Asian fit glasses can measure around 8mm and this helps provide support and less slipping. A great example is Ray-Ban Asian fit glasses, which sit just right on your face and avoid any touching between your cheeks and glasses.

Many metal frames, for example, have adjustable nose pads that you can adjust to fit the glasses properly on each side of your nose. Certain metal frames can have a nose bridge of up to 11mm. Measurements for low bridge glasses can tend to be lower than the standard fit but do vary. But don’t let all these numbers stop you from getting a pair of trendy and cool Asian fit glasses.

Great-looking, better-fitting glasses

If you have a low nose bridge, wide and flat facial features or high cheekbones, then most probably Asian fit glasses are just the right eyewear for you.

Look trendy with a pair of Asian fit eyeglasses or low bridge sunglasses that fit; avoid the pain of your eyewear moving inconveniently or them fogging up your vision because they are too close to your face.

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Discover how blue light affects our eyes and dive into how blue light glasses work.

SUMMARY

The purpose of blue light glasses is to block the harmful blue light emitted by digital screens from reaching the eyes, which can disrupt your circadian rhythm.

By limiting the amount of light that reaches your eyes, blue light glasses can offer several benefits, such as reducing eye strain, improving sleep quality and more.

Disclaimer: Blue light glasses are intended to benefit individuals who spend long hours in front of digital screens or are exposed to artificial blue light sources. However, it’s important to note that the scientific evidence supporting these benefits is still evolving, and individual experiences may vary.

Have you ever finished your gaming session or work day with tired and irritated eyes?

In today’s digital era, our lives are intricately intertwined with screens, from smartphones and laptops to tablets and e-readers.

As we navigate this digital landscape, we often overlook the potential implications of prolonged screen exposure on our eye health and overall well-being.

That’s where blue light-blocking glasses step in, offering a potential solution to the problems caused by blue light emitted from digital devices.

What is blue light?

Blue light refers to a specific range of electromagnetic radiation within the visible light spectrum.

Blue light rays are at the high end of the visible light spectrum and have the shortest yet most powerful wavelength (380-460nm).

Blue light waves are the closest to invisible waves and ultraviolet rays, which are known to be the most dangerous of all light waves.

Because of its higher energy, blue light is more likely to scatter in the atmosphere, which is why the sky appears blue during the day.

So is blue light harmful?

It’s important to note that not all blue light is harmful. Blue light is present naturally in sunlight (largest source of blue light) and plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythms.

The primary concern arises from excessive exposure to artificial sources of blue light, particularly from digital devices, LED lighting and energy-efficient light bulbs.

Therefore, it is best to be safe and protect your eyes from blue light with a pair of blue light-blocking glasses.

The purpose of blue light glasses

The primary purpose of blue light-blocking glasses is to reduce digital eye strain and discomfort caused by digital devices (that emit blue light).

When we spend long hours in front of computers, smartphones, tablets or other electronic screens, we expose our eyes to higher levels of blue light than what they would naturally encounter from daylight.

Symptoms of digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome) may include eye fatigue, dry eye syndrome, blurry vision, headaches, discomfort in the neck and shoulders and difficulty falling asleep.

Blue light-blocking glasses work by selectively blocking or filtering out a portion of the blue light spectrum, aiming to reduce these potential negative effects.

By wearing blue light-filtering glasses, some individuals report experiencing less eye strain and improved comfort while using a digital device for extended periods.

DID YOU KNOW?

The most common symptoms of the negative effects of blue light are: eye fatigue, dry eyes, blurry vision, headaches and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.

What are the benefits of blue light glasses?

Blue light-blocking glasses are designed to mitigate the potential negative effects of excessive blue light exposure from digital screens.

While the scientific evidence supporting their benefits is still evolving, many users who wear plano and prescription glasses with a blue light filter report experiencing some positive results.

Reduced eye strain

Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which may cause symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches and eye discomfort.

Blue light-blocking glasses can help reduce eye strain by filtering out a portion of the blue light that contributes to these symptoms.

Improved sleep quality

Blue light exposure, especially during the evening or nighttime, can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

Wearing glasses that block blue light in the evening or using devices with blue light filters can help maintain the body’s natural circadian rhythms and improve sleep patterns.

Enhanced comfort

People often report feeling more comfortable when using a computer screen and other devices while wearing blue light glasses, as the glasses can help reduce the harsh glare and intensity of screens.

Potential retinal protection

Some studies suggest that excessive exposure to blue light, particularly high-energy blue-violet light, might contribute to retinal damage over time.

Blue light glasses with specific coatings may offer protection against potential long-term damage, although more research is needed to establish this and other benefits conclusively (Dawnie et al. 2019).

Minimised risk of macular degeneration

Some researchers believe that long-term exposure to blue light could be associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Zhao et al. 2018).

Wearing blue light glasses might help reduce this risk by limiting the amount of harmful blue light reaching the eyes, safeguarding your macular health.

When should you use blue light glasses?

Since blue-blocking glasses filter out possible harmful wavelengths of light, they are best worn in situations where you risk being exposed to too much blue light.

This includes almost all electronic devices with screens – so, whether you’re watching television, checking your phone or working at a computer, blue light-blocking glasses can prevent sleep issues and minimise your risk of eye strain, headaches and difficulty sleeping.

We suggest wearing blue light-filtering glasses:

On extremely bright, sunny days
In front of a computer monitor (i.e. when playing video games)
When using your phone (especially at night)
When a migraine feels imminent

When having long sessions of extended screen time, it is strongly recommended to safeguard your visual performance by taking frequent breaks, wearing computer glasses and making sure the device is at least at arm’s length.

Are blue light glasses really necessary?

If you worry about the impact of blue light on your eyes and sleep patterns, you may consider trying a quality pair of blue light-blocking glasses, especially if you have a lifestyle that involves extensive screen use.

As always, it’s a good idea to consult with an eye care professional to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

References

Downie, L. E., Keller, P. R., Busija, L., Lawrenson, J. G., & Hull, C. C. (2019), Blue‐light filtering spectacle lenses for visual performance, sleep, and macular health in adults. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2019(1), CD013244.
https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD013244

Zhao, Z. C., Zhou, Y., Tan, G., & Li, J. (2018). Research progress about the effect and prevention of blue light on eyes. International journal of ophthalmology, 11(12), 1999–2003.
https://doi.org/10.18240/ijo.2018.12.20

Vitamins for Eyes

Find out which vitamins and minerals play a role in maintaining good eye health.

Digital Eye Strain

If you’re using digital screens for long periods of time, you could be suffering from digital eye strain. Learn what...

Vitamins for Eyes

Find out which vitamins and minerals play a role in maintaining good eye health.

Digital Eye Strain

If you’re using digital screens for long periods of time, you could be suffering from digital eye strain. Learn what...

What is Blepharitis?

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a condition that irritates the eyelids. Learn all about it and how to treat it.

Disclaimer: We at SmartBuyGlasses are not medical doctors. This article contains general advice. If your eyelids are inflamed, consult your doctor or an eye care professional for treatment.

Blepharitis is a medical term that indicates an inflammation of the eyelids. This occurs due to infection at the base of eyelashes or when the tiny oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become clogged.

It’s characterised by an inflammation of the eyelids that causes sore red eyelids or crusty eyelashes.

This condition may also cause burning, itching or a gritty sensation. Although blepharitis is not sight-threatening, it can lead to discomfort and chronic conditions if not treated and managed.

Eyelid inflammation is very common. In a survey of American ophthalmologists and optometrists, eye doctors reported that 37% and 47% of their respective patients had experienced blepharitis symptoms at some point in their lives. (Lemp & Nichols 2009)

Luckily, eye doctors are able to prescribe effective blepharitis treatments that can limit eyelid inflammation and help resolve the issue.

What are the causes of blepharitis?

Blepharitis is caused by a type of bacteria that lives on the skin, a skin condition such as seborrheic dermatitis and the glands inside the eyelids not producing enough oil.

However, there are several other possible causes of blepharitis, including:

Seborrheic dermatitis, a chronic form of eczema
Rosacea, a skin condition characterised by facial inflammation
Dry eyes (something you may experience and linked to blepharitis)
Allergies, including allergic reactions to eye medications, contact lens solutions or eye makeup
Parasites (Demodex eyelash mites)
Eyelash extensions

DID YOU KNOW?

Blepharitis is most likely a multifactorial condition (Eberhardt & Rammohan 2023), meaning it can have multiple causes, such as bacterial infections, inflammatory skin conditions and parasitic infestations.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

The most common symptoms of blepharitis include:

Burning or stinging eyes
Crusty debris at the base of eyelashes
Irritated, watery eyes
Itchy eyelids
Grittiness or a foreign body sensation

Depending on the severity of blepharitis, you may have some or all of these symptoms and blepharitis symptoms may be intermittent or constant. In some cases, blepharitis also causes loss of eyelashes (madarosis).

Blepharitis is also a common cause of contact lens discomfort, forcing many people to give up on wearing contacts. Blepharitis can cause disruption to the tear film, which can affect contact lens wear comfort.

Are there different types of blepharitis?

Blepharitis can be categorised into two types, anterior blepharitis and posterior blepharitis, based on its location on the eyelids.

Anterior blepharitis

Anterior blepharitis is commonly caused by a bacterial infection (staphylococcal blepharitis) or dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows (seborrheic blepharitis).

These bacteria are commonly found on the face and eyelids, but if they become excessive or the lid area reacts poorly to their presence, an infection may occur. Less commonly, allergies or a mite infestation of the eyelashes can cause anterior blepharitis.

Posterior blepharitis

Posterior blepharitis can occur when the glands of the eyelids irregularly produce oil (meibomian blepharitis). This creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth.

Posterior blepharitis can also develop as a result of other skin conditions, such as rosacea and scalp dandruff.

Am I at risk for blepharitis?

In some cases, a person might be more at risk of contracting blepharitis. For example, these are some risk factors:

Wearing contact lenses
Not removing makeup thoroughly
Having oily skin
Having dandruff
Suffering from allergies
Having rosacea

What not to do with blepharitis?

To effectively manage blepharitis, there are a few things you should avoid during the course of the treatment.

It is advisable not to wear contact lenses while experiencing symptoms, as they can worsen the condition and hinder the healing process.

Additionally, refrain from using eye makeup, especially eyeliner and mascara, as they can introduce irritants.

It is also recommended to replace any eye makeup that has been used to avoid reintroducing the bacteria.

On the other hand, there are also some to-dos you can follow. Firstly, make it a habit to clean your eyelids twice a day at the beginning of your treatment with the prescribed eye lid wash from your healthcare professional.

As your symptoms improve, you can gradually reduce it to once a day. Eyelid hygiene cleaning is important even if your symptoms clear up, as it helps maintain good eye hygiene.

Blepharitis treatment

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you think may indicate blepharitis, it is recommended to see an eye doctor for an eye exam. He or she will assess the best way to treat your condition with some of the following methods:

Eye drops. Steroid eye drops can control redness, swelling and irritation. Also, artificial tears may be an option.
Medicines to fight infection. If your blepharitis is caused by bacterial infection, your eye doctor may prescribe topical antibiotic eye drops, ointments or pills.
Treating the root causes. Treating an underlying health issue such as rosacea or dandruff, if it is the cause of your blepharitis, can be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms.

Follow your doctor’s advice, and your blepharitis should heal up in one or two weeks, depending on the severity. For any doubts or questions, you can always consult our certified online opticians.

References

Lemp, M.A. and Nichols, K.K. (2009), Blepharitis in the United States 2009: A survey-based perspective on prevalence and treatment, The Ocular Surface, 7(2). https://doi.org/10.1016/S1542-0124(12)70620-1

Eberhardt, Mary, and Guhan Rammohan (2023),Blepharitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.”, National Library of Medicine. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459305/

Astigmatism: Causes, Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Home ⁄

Astigmatism: Causes, Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Ask our opticians

Ask now

Learn what astigmatism is, the different types, and what you can do to correct this vision problem.

SUMMARY

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens.

People with astigmatism may experience blurry or distorted vision, headaches and eye strain.

Treatments include corrective glasses, contact lenses or surgery.

When life gets blurry, adjust your vision. Have you found yourself wondering why your vision is blurred or distorted? Do you also get eyestrain or headaches with this unfocused vision? These may be early signs of astigmatism. Read on as we uncover what astigmatism is and what the main causes are.

What is astigmatism, and how does astigmatism affect vision?

Astigmatism is an eye condition where the cornea has an irregular shape. It is not perfectly round, so it cannot focus light evenly onto the retina located in the back of the eye.

Normal corneas are round, but if you have astigmatism, you have a more oval cornea. Experts refer to this as a refractive eye error, similar to hyperopia and myopia. This results in distorted or blurred vision at all distances, which can be easily corrected.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are 2 main types of astigmatism but there is also other kinds based on other rfeactive issues.

What causes astigmatism?

The main cause of astigmatism is the lens’s or eye curvature’s irregularity. In some cases, people are born with astigmatism. In other cases, it can still be genetic but only develop after years. Other causes of astigmatism can be induced after eye surgery, an injury, or caused by an eye disease.

Usually, people can develop astigmatism alongside other visual impairments, such as farsightedness and nearsightedness.

Astigmatism symptoms

The extent of astigmatism will affect the level of blurriness in your vision, some may be more severe than others. Other symptoms, alongside blurred and distorted vision, can also include headaches, eyestrain, and difficulty seeing at night.

If, as an adult, you begin to experience blurred vision, you should have an eye test to check for astigmatism or other visual impairments. It is, however, recommended you have a regular eye check-up at least every 2 years or more frequently if you suffer from an existing eye problem.

For children, having regular eye tests is best to help detect any early signs of astigmatism, as some younger kids may not initially be aware of the visual problem.

Types of astigmatism

There are 2 main types of astigmatism:

Corneal astigmatism. This is the most common and is caused by a misshapen cornea.
Lenticular astigmatism. Similar to the previous one but affects the lens instead. Some people can have a well-shaped cornea but still have lenticular astigmatism.

However, based on the different refractive errors, there are other types of astigmatism:

Myopic astigmatism: Nearsightedness combined with astigmatism happens when both curves are fixated in front of the retina.
Hyperopic astigmatism: Farsightedness and astigmatism in the eye where both curves are fixated behind the retina.
Mixed astigmatism: This happens when curves are both near and far-sighted.

Astigmatism can also be identified in two other ways. Regular astigmatism occurs when the curves are at 90 degrees, so perpendicular. On the other hand, irregular astigmatism doesn’t have curves at 90 degrees.

Can I do an astigmatism test online?

To understand if you suffer from astigmatism, you can do a self-astigmatism test online.

There are 2 easy ways to quickly diagnose astigmatism. These basic astigmatism tests can be done from the comfort of your home.

They can help you then decide whether you need to consult an eye specialist to get a more detailed evaluation of your vision needs. If you already wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, you can take these tests while wearing either.

The line test

Position yourself 2-10 feet away from the screen
Start by closing one eye and looking carefully at the lines
Repeat this with both eyes

If the lines appear to be the same color and thickness, likely, you may not have astigmatism. However, if there are differences, your vision is likely blurred, and you may have astigmatism. You should consult your eye specialist at your earliest convenience.

The dial test

Position yourself 2-10 feet away from the screen.
Start by closing one eye and looking carefully at the lines.
Repeat this with both eyes.

If the lines appear similarly dark, likely, you may not have astigmatism. However, if one or more lines appear darker than the rest, you may have astigmatism. You should consult your eye specialist at your earliest convenience.

Another way to check for astigmatism is to take a trip to your local optician for an eye test. The optician can identify whether or not you have astigmatism and what type of correction you may need.

There are 3 types of astigmatism tests an eye doctor can perform:

Refraction: When during an eye test, you look at an eye chart which helps determine if you have refractive errors, like astigmatism. This particular test helps to see how your eyes can bend light.
Keratometry: This will help measure the cornea’s curvature and see how much astigmatism you have. This a useful test if you want to use contact lenses.
Corneal topography: This can give you a detailed map and measurement of the cornea and can help detect irregular astigmatism.

How to correct astigmatism

In general, astigmatism can be corrected. For almost all types of astigmatism, glasses and contact lenses can help correct your blurred or distorted vision. In the case where your astigmatism is very mild, you may actually not need any corrective lenses at all.

There is also laser eye surgery to help correct astigmatism, known as refractive surgery. This type of operation helps reshape your cornea and is permanent. In any case, you should consult an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam before deciding what type of correction you may need to treat astigmatism.

Eyeglasses

As we know, various types of lens materials can be used to help correct visual impairments. Some of the most used materials for lenses are:

Polycarbonate
High-Index
Trivex
Plastic (standard)

The type of lens material will depend on the severity of astigmatism, and usually, the higher it is, the thinner your lenses should be, like high-index lenses. High-index is more expensive but is lightweight and provides high visual clarity.

If you have mild astigmatism and your prescription is lower than 1.00, plastic lenses can be a good choice and are also more affordable than other materials. For moderate or more severe astigmatism, you may consider investing a little more money in polycarbonate, Trivex, or even high-index lenses.

Contact lenses

There are various uses for contact lenses, whether you wear them occasionally, daily, or monthly. The types of contacts you can use to help correct astigmatism are:

Soft lenses can be used if you have mild astigmatism. Known for its soft and flexible material that can be divided into daily disposables, weekly/monthly disposables, and extended wear. For this type, you’d be given toric lenses to help correct your astigmatism.

Rigid contact lenses can also be used to help correct astigmatism. The type of hard contacts used are called RGP (rigid gas permeable) and initially are not as comfortable as soft contacts. Many do find that RGP contacts allow for clearer vision and are good for correcting irregular astigmatism like Keratoconus.

There are also hybrid contact lenses you can use for astigmatism, which have a hard center (RGP) and softer edges. Compared to RGP contacts, hybrid ones are a little clearer but also a bit more expensive and usually custom-made for you.

So, what is astigmatism?

Essentially your eyes’ corneas have different shapes than normal ones, they look more oval rather than round. This oval shape is what causes blurry and distorted vision. It may be an early sign of astigmatism if you begin to experience distorted or blurry vision alongside eye strain and headaches.

Although astigmatism isn’t a serious eye health issue, you should consult an optician or do a self-test to identify it quickly. There’s no way to prevent astigmatism, but various ways exist to help correct it.

At SmartBuyGlasses, you’ll find the best correction for your astigmatism with a pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses. If you are interested in learning more about astigmatism, have a look at our Optical Centre.

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the most common form of vision impairment in the world. Learn about its effects, causes and...

What is hyperopia?

Hyperopiais better known as farsightedness. Learn all about the condition, its causes, symptoms and treatments in this article.

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is the most common form of vision impairment in the world. Learn about its effects, causes and...

What is hyperopia?

Hyperopiais better known as farsightedness. Learn all about the condition, its causes, symptoms and treatments in this article.

How to Prevent Glasses From Fogging

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

How To Prevent Glasses From Fogging

Foggy glasses might seem unavoidable in certain situations, but everything will be clearer when you read this guide.

If you wear glasses, you’ve probably dealt with sudden lens fog—one second you’re seeing clearly, the next, it’s like walking into a cloud. Whether you’re sipping a hot drink or stepping into a warm room after being out in cold weather, foggy glasses can be frustrating.

The good news is that there are ways to stop your lenses from fogging up. In this article, we’ll breakdown why it happens and share easy tricks to deal with that.

Why do glasses fog up?

The reason why glasses fog is due to condensation, the process in which water vapor cools down enough to turn into liquid.

You might have noticed that fogging tends to happen when warm and humid air hits the surface of your lenses, such as checking something in the oven or stepping into a warm room after being in a cold environment.

In these examples, warm air hits the cool surface of your lenses, turning vapor into microscopic water droplets, which is the fog you see.

However, there are other factors that can cause your glasses to be foggy. Some of these include:

Lens coating: over time, the coating on the lenses will degrade, making them appear cloudy as if they are fogged up. If that happens, we recommend investing in better-quality coatings that last longer.

Improper lens care: if we’re not careful, not taking care of our glasses can lead to them getting damaged. If scratches accumulate over time, it can result in extra costs for replacement.

How to prevent glasses from fogging up

While we can’t control the weather or sudden temperature changes, there are various ways we can help prevent foggy lenses (or at least reduce the phenomenon).

Here are a few simple tricks for preventing foggy glasses:

1. Invest in anti-fog lens spray or wipes

A simple solution is to use anti-fog sprays or wipes.

Anti-fog wipes are an effective pre-emptive solution that doesn’t cause any harm to the lenses and prevent them from fogging. They are also lightweight, making them practical to carry around.

Anti-fog sprays also prevent lenses from fogging and are generally safe and hypoallergenic. That said, remember to read the label before purchasing the spray as some can lead to skin irritation if used incorrectly. Luckily, they are easy to apply and last for a long time.

2. Regularly clean your glasses

Over time, the lenses of the glasses can attract bits of dirt and become scratched. That is why properly cleaning your glasses is key to maintaining them and preventing fogging.

Cleaning them is easy: simply spray your lenses and frames with a suitable optical cleanser and wipe the excess with a microfiber cloth. Also make sure to store your frames in a protective case when not wearing them.

It’s important to note that using dish soap, salt water and window cleaner solutions is not recommended, as they may break down the lens coatings over time.

3. Adjust your glasses placement

When the glasses are placed too close to the eyes, there is less room for air to flow through and blow away moisture, increasing the probability of fog building up.

Try to place and keep your frames a little further down your nose and away from your eyes.

DID YOU KNOW?

It might be convenient, but cleaning your glasses with your t-shirt or other items of clothing can actually damage the lenses. This is due to the small fibers and uneven surfaces that can create tiny scratches over time.

Bonus: extra tips for mask wearers

In times of COVID, glasses wearers experienced constant fogging of the lenses while wearing a mask. That happens because when your warm breath escapes from the top of your mask, it hits the lens surface, which is much cooler than your breath.

If you wear face masks, here are some steps you can try to help prevent foggy lenses:

Your glasses and mask need to be a correct fit, secure the mask over your nose bridge, as this will reduce the amount of air that may escape from the top.
Use your glasses to help create a better seal along the top of your mask.
Get a mask equipped with an adjustable nose clip to tighten over your nose bridge.
If the mask doesn’t have a nose clip, try using adhesive silicone nose clips.
Try wearing your glasses slightly lower on your nose to allow more air to flow between the mask and the glasses.
Use a small amount of tissue paper under the nose clip of your mask, giving an extra layer to fill in the gaps.

What is the best solution for me?

Glasses can benefit from anti-fogging solutions such as those described above to help prevent fogging and keep the lenses clean. This applies to different types of glasses, including prescription and safety glasses.

If you wear prescription glasses daily, investing in protective coatings and anti-fog solutions will help protect not only your glasses but also your vision comfort as you go about your daily tasks.

The same goes for sports or work safety glasses used to perform tasks that may endanger your vision; proper lens coatings and anti-fog solutions will guarantee better performance.

This is particularly important for safety glasses as they need to conform to higher standards compared to regular eyeglasses.

These can be fitted with both prescription or plano lenses (prescription-free), and the same protective coatings that can be applied to regular glasses can be applied here.

Though it’s already quite uncomfortable when regular glasses fog up, it’s not only annoying but also dangerous when this happens to safety glasses.

If you work with hazardous liquids or love swimming with sharks, the last thing you need is for your safety glasses to fog up and blur your vision.

That’s why preventing these glasses from fogging up with anti-fog wipes, anti-fog sprays and proper positioning on the nose bridge is even more important.

Regardless of your glasses type, we recommend trying out different anti-fogging solutions to see what works best for you.

Unfog your vision

Foggy lenses don’t have to be a daily annoyance. With anti-fog sprays, proper cleaning habits and smart mask hacks, you can keep your glasses fog-free and your vision clear in any environment.

The solutions discussed here will go a long way in clearing up your vision, but if you’re looking for more expert advice, you can also reach out to our opticians. They’ll be happy to help you choose the right coatings and solutions for your needs and lifestyle.

Sunglasses: Myths and Misconceptions

Learn the truth behind common myths about sunglasses

How to Test Blue Light Glasses

Discover the different types of blue light glasses and how to test their efficacy at-home.

How to Remove Scratches From Glasses

Although you can't remove scratches from glasses, learning how to prevent them is the next best thing.

Sunglasses: Myths and Misconceptions

Learn the truth behind common myths about sunglasses

How to Test Blue Light Glasses

Discover the different types of blue light glasses and how to test their efficacy at-home.

How to Remove Scratches From Glasses

Although you can't remove scratches from glasses, learning how to prevent them is the next best thing.

What are Progressive Lenses?

Ask our opticians

Ask now

Home ⁄

What Are Progressive Lenses?

Progressive lenses correct multiple vision problems by combining different prescriptions in one lens.

SUMMARY

Progressive lenses combine different prescriptions, allowing multiple vision problems to be corrected in a single pair of glasses.

They provide near, intermediate and distance vision correction without the visible lines found on the bifocal and trifocal lenses.

As the old saying goes, time waits for no man. Age catches up on all of us, and on our eyes too. Our body goes through many changes as we age, one of which is that our eyes begin to deteriorate.

After the age of 40, most people develop presbyopia, a condition that affects our close-up vision. With presbyopia, corrective lenses are needed for activities like reading or writing.

For those of us who already wear glasses to help with intermediate or distance vision, this can be a bit of a nuisance. Step forward progressive lenses, your three-in-one solution to the problem.

How do progressive lenses work?

Progressive lenses, also called multifocal lenses or varifocals, contain multiple prescriptions. Each prescription caters to a different field of vision so you can easily see things at far, intermediate and near distances with just one pair of glasses.

The upper portion of the lens is adapted for distance vision. It gradually blends into the intermediate prescription in the middle portion, which corrects anything arm’s length away from you (like your computer screen).

Finally, the lens increases in power towards the bottom section, designed for close-up tasks, like checking a price tag or using your smartphone.

Progressive lenses have no lines between the different prescriptions, so you have a smooth transition when switching between different viewing areas.

Do I need progressive lenses?

Whether or not you need progressive lenses depends on your vision requirements. If you have multiple prescriptions for a combination of vision problems like presbyopia, nearsightedness and farsightedness, then you’re a good candidate for a pair of progressives.

Presbyopia is caused by the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on near objects and is a natural part of aging. Without progressive lenses, many individuals experience difficulty seeing both near and far objects clearly.

Progressives may be the best option if you are experiencing eye strain when focusing on text or other details at multiple distances.

Your eye care professional can perform an eye exam to determine if progressive lenses will help improve your vision and overall visual clarity and comfort at all distances.

Progressive lens types

We offer two different types of progressive lenses, premium and deluxe. Your choice between these two ultimately comes down to your personal preference.

Premium progressive lenses

Premium progressive lenses are our entry level range of progressives, with four lens index options available.

The most standard progressive lenses in the collection come with scratch-resistant and anti-reflective coatings, two features that are also found in the options higher up the scale. The “comfort” version has added UV 400 protection.

The options on the upper end of the premium scale also have UV400, as well as superhydrophobic coating and an aspheric shape. This shape makes them thinner and lighter than other versions, with 1.67 and 1.74 index versions available.

Deluxe progressive lenses

Deluxe progressive lenses are a step up from our premium options, offering a superior visual experience. There are three options available within the deluxe range.

All three of them come with the same features of the most complete option from the premium range, but they have several additional advantages.

Impact X protection comes as standard on all three deluxe options. This impact-resistant coating reinforces the lenses, so they can handle more adventurous lifestyles and are more forgiving when the odd mishap occurs.

Deluxe progressive lenses differ from their premium counterparts the most in one key aspect. Their viewing area is 30% wider than that of premium lenses.

This provides greater comfort, especially for near and intermediate vision, as these zones are enlarged the most noticeably.

This extra space maximises the smooth transition when switching from one viewing area to the next, and can reduce visual fatigue and peripheral distortion while wearing your glasses.

What's the difference between progressive lenses and bifocals?

Progressives and bifocals share the trait of containing more than one prescription, but there are some important differences between them. Bifocals have two separate prescription zones for near and distance vision. You’ll have your distance correction at the top, while your near vision correction is at the bottom.

Bifocal lenses have a distinct line (called a segment line) between each value which causes an abrupt jump in your vision when the eye switches from viewing something at a far distance to a near one. At SmartBuyGlasses, we do not offer bifocals.

As already mentioned, progressive lenses work by combining three different prescriptions in each lens. They help correct all focal points without any visible lines between viewing zones, unlike bifocals. In a progressive lens, each area transitions gradually from one prescription to another, allowing smoother vision.

DID YOU KNOW?

Several people proposed designs for progressive lenses in the first half of the 19th century, but it was French engineer Bernard Maitenaz who created the first commercially successful progressive lens.

Benefits of progressive lenses

Progressives lenses offer a lot to wearers, in terms of vision correction, comfort and convenience. Their three prescriptions are an update on single-vision lenses and bifocals. With progressive lenses, you won’t need to carry more than one pair of glasses with you.

No need to swap between your reading glasses and regular glasses – or even your third pair! Plus, the unique design of a progressive lens allows for a smooth transition between viewing areas.

The cost of progressive lenses is higher than that of single vision lenses or bifocals, although they are an investment that can save you further expenses on other pairs of glasses.

This, coupled with their convenient design and the fact that they correct vision smoothly at multiple distances, is enough to assure most wearers that the price is worth it.

Getting used to progressive lenses

It may take you a few weeks to get used to wearing progressive lenses if you’ve never had a pair before. As your eyes get used to the gradient zones of the lenses, you might notice that your vision feels unusual.

When reading, for example, if you do not move your head and eyes at the same time, the movement of the eye will catch the peripheral zone which will cause blurred vision.

It’s important to realise that this is a normal part of the process and not a sign that something is wrong. With time, you will adapt to this head movement.

Talk to your eye doctor if you’re still having trouble adapting to your new lenses after one or two weeks, but for that initial adjustment period, here are a few tips.

Moving your head more is one of the first and most essential steps to adapting to your new progressive lenses. You should use your lenses by turning your head towards an object you want to focus on instead of simply moving your eyes. A good way to do this is to point your nose to what you want to look at.

However, for near vision tasks like reading, lower your gaze, not your head, towards the bottom section of the lenses. This part of the lens is designed for close-up work, and using just your eyes to shift focus ensures you utilise the correct zone.

The middle section of the lens is for intermediate vision, so when you need to see something in that field of vision – like your computer screen – look straight ahead.

When focusing on distance vision, like watching television or driving, it’s important to look through the upper part of the lenses.

Lift your gaze slightly while keeping your head in a natural, upright position. This aligns your eyes with the top section of the lenses, which is optimised for far distances.

Finally, don’t switch between single-vision prescription glasses. Aim only to use your new pair of progressive glasses, which will help you learn how to use them the correct way quickly.

Once you get the hang of them, you’ll really be able to make the most of all that progressive lenses have to offer. Take a look at our Optical Centre for more informative articles on progressive lenses and other topics.

What are Bifocal Glasses?

Bifocal lenses have significant advantages, but there are other things to consider before deciding if a pair of bifocals is...

Do Computer Glasses Work?

Do you find that your vision is blurry when working at your desk? Is it distracting you from your work?...

What are Bifocal Glasses?

Bifocal lenses have significant advantages, but there are other things to consider before deciding if a pair of bifocals is...

Do Computer Glasses Work?

Do you find that your vision is blurry when working at your desk? Is it distracting you from your work?...

What Is Pupillary Distance?

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

What Is Pupillary Distance?

Pupillary distance is the distance between your pupils. Learn how to measure PD in this article.

SUMMARY

Pupillary distance refers to the distance between the centres of your pupils, measured in millimetres.

Understanding this measurement is important to better align your prescription lenses to your eyes and guarantee optimal vision and comfort.

PD can either be measured at home, with an online tool or by an Optician.

When placing your first order of prescription glasses online, you’ll likely come across some pretty specific language relating to the various measurements required.

If you’ve never actually had to read your prescription before, some of the terminology used on it will probably be new to you.

One of those terms is pupillary distance, which simply refers to the distance from the center of your left pupil to the center of your right pupil.

Pupillary distance is measured in millimetres and is crucial knowledge when fitting corrective lenses. We’ll take you through the ins and outs of it in this article.

Why is pupillary distance important?

When creating prescription lenses, having the wearer’s correct pupillary distance (PD) is vital, as it allows the lens maker to determine the center of the lenses.

For the clearest and most comfortable vision possible, the distance between the center of the left lens and the center of the right lens should equal the distance between the wearer’s pupils.

Incorrect PD measurements, even if they’re only off by a millimetre or two, could be the difference between perfectly functioning prescription glasses and distorted lenses.

Each pupil needs to align as closely as possible with the center of the lens directly in front of it in order to achieve optimal vision correction.

If the lenses are created with an incorrect PD, the wearer will experience distorted, uncomfortable vision, and possibly headaches as a result. In this case, the correct PD measurement would need to be taken so the lenses can be realigned.

DID YOU KNOW?

The ruler that eye care professionals use to measure pupillary distance is commonly known as a “PD stick.”

Single PD and dual PD

There are two different types of pupillary distance measurement; single PD and dual PD. The definition given earlier – the distance between the center of your pupils – applies to single PD (also called binocular PD).

There is only one value in this measurement, hence the name. For example, a binocular PD could be written as 61mm.

Dual PD refers to the distance from the center of each pupil to the middle of the nose, so there are two numerical values.

A dual PD of 31/30mm indicates that the center of the right pupil is 31mm from the middle of the nose, and the center of the left pupil is 30mm from the nose.

Monocular PD is another name for dual PD. The value of the right eye always comes first in monocular PD.

Either type of pupillary distance measurement will suffice when ordering glasses, but, it’s more common to use binocular PD. Dual PD is useful when ordering progressive lenses.

Reading glasses are an exceptional case, necessitating some simple subtraction. Take 3mm off your single PD or 1.5mm from each value of your dual PD to ensure your reading glasses meet your vision needs.

How to measure pupillary distance at home

Your pupillary distance can usually be found at the bottom of your prescription card, as your eye doctor or specialist measures it during a lens fitting.

However, eye doctors sometimes omit this detail from the prescription card they give to you and just keep it in their own records.

To avoid this, be sure to ask them to include it whenever you go for an eye test and a new prescription.

Even if it’s not on your current card, it’s not a problem. It’s easy to measure pupillary distance yourself at home, and you can even take your pick from old-school and modern methods.

Use the app

Our free pupillary distance app is the fastest and easiest way to measure PD. All you need is a smartphone, a computer with a webcam, and a magnetic strip card. The app has voice instructions that will guide you through each step of PD measurement.

Use a ruler

If you don’t have access to the tools required to use our app, you can easily measure your pupillary distance using this approach. All you need is a millimetre ruler and a mirror.

Step 1: Standing in front of a mirror, hold the ruler flat against the line of your eyebrows or up to the bridge of your nose.

Step 2: Close your right eye. While looking straight ahead into the mirror, align the ruler’s zero mark with the center of your left pupil.

Step 3: Keeping the millimetre ruler still, close your left eye and open your right eye.

Step 4: Read the number aligned with your right pupil’s center. This number is your first pupillary distance measurement.

Step 5: Repeat the process to ensure you get the most accurate measurement result for your left eye too.

If you are struggling to follow these steps, enlisting the help of a friend could make things easier. All you need to do is stand facing your friend and ask them to measure your PD using either a ruler or a millimetre tape measure.

Both of you can repeat the steps outlined above, with your friend holding the ruler to the bridge of your nose and taking the measurement. During this, your friend must make sure they keep their head still and look straight ahead while they read the measurement.

Is there an average pupillary distance?

Pupillary distance is different for each individual. The average PD for adults is between 54 and 74mm. If your own PD measurement falls outside of the average adult’s PD range, there is no need to worry.

High or low, the number itself does not have any effect on your vision. What’s important is that it accurately reflects the distance between your pupils.

The average pupillary distance for children is between 41 and 55mm. Since a person’s pupillary distance changes with physical development, it’s important to consider that children may have different pupillary distances each year. Don’t take for granted that their PD measurement from a previous year will still be correct.

If anyone knows how to measure pupillary distance, it’s your eye doctor. For the most precise reading possible, ask them to write it on your prescription card each time you or your child has an eye exam.

If you’re still unsure about any prescription-related issues, take a look at our helpful Optical Center articles, or reach out to one of our certified opticians for help.

Understanding Glasses Measurements

It's important to know your glasses measurements when buying eyewear online. This useful guide explains the significance of the numbers...

How to Buy Glasses Online

Buying glasses online is fast and easy. Follow these simple steps to find your perfect pair of glasses online.

Understanding Glasses Measurements

It's important to know your glasses measurements when buying eyewear online. This useful guide explains the significance of the numbers...

How to Buy Glasses Online

Buying glasses online is fast and easy. Follow these simple steps to find your perfect pair of glasses online.

Prism Glasses

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

Prism Glasses

Prism glasses are used to treat binocular vision problems. This article explains how they work and what conditions they treat.

Prism glasses may effectively treat eye conditions such as double vision or other binocular vision difficulties. Our eye movements are controlled by six different muscles in each eye, and if one of these muscles is weak, it could cause eye strain, headaches, or even double vision.

What are prism lenses?

Prism lenses may be prescribed by eye doctors but do not correct any refractive errors like farsightedness or nearsightedness, as they do not contain any focusing power. Temporary prism lenses, called Fresnel prisms, are made of vinyl and are attached to your eyeglasses.

This is an excellent option for those wanting to try prism lenses before getting permanent ones or if your double vision is temporary. More permanent prism lenses are usually made of plastic or glass, are wedge or triangle shaped, and are infused into regular lens prescriptions.

How do prism glasses work?

In order to see clearly, light entering the eye must focus on the retina, the area at the back of the eye where light images are translated and sent to the brain. When your eyes are misaligned, they don’t move accurately together, and images are formed on different parts of the retinas, causing double vision.

Prism glasses compensate for this misalignment by bending and redirecting the light rays on the retina, aligning and producing a clear image. This bending of light improves eye alignment, helping you to see comfortably and prevent double vision.

DID YOU KNOW?

Misalignment of the eyes is the cause of double vision.

Why do people see double?

Double vision, or diplopia, is a condition in which you see two of everything. Any misalignment of the eyes may cause you to see double, making it difficult to judge distances, read, and perform everyday tasks. Double vision may signify a more severe problem, so you should speak with your eye doctor if you experience it.

Prism glasses for double vision

Double vision can sometimes be treated with eye exercises, or your doctor may give you a temporary prism to attach to your glasses. If the temporary prisms help your double vision, prisms may then be added to your prescription lenses.

A prism bends the light before it travels through the eye and directs it to the right place on the retina, allowing the brain to fuse the two images together to produce one clear image.

What do prism glasses look like?

If using temporary prisms, these are typically more visible as they are attached to your glasses. If your eye doctor prescribes prism lenses for long-term use, these prisms will be fused into your regular lenses. They will look the same as before, but the glass on one side might be thicker. If this is a concern, consider a thicker frame to hide it.

What does a prescription for a prism look like?

Your glasses prescription will show you all of the details on the type of vision you have. Numbers indicate how strong lenses need to be and where they should be positioned within the frame.

If there is a number in the ‘PRISM’ portion of your prescription, you have a weak eye muscle that needs correction. The ‘BASE’ section will explain how the prism should be aligned.

PRISM – diopters measure the amount of prism correction needed (from 0.5PD, 1.0PD, 1.5PD, and so on) and indicate how misaligned your eyes are. If the power required is high, it can be split into two since alignment is a function of both eyes.

BASE– depending on your double vision, the prism is placed vertically or horizontally in one or both lenses. It may be on the outer edge of the lens (Base Out, BO), the inner edge (Base In, BI), or at the top (Base Up, BU) or bottom edge (Base Down, BD).

In the above prescription, between the axis and ADD value, there are the prism specifications. There are two main factors to highlight when you read your prescription with prism lenses:

The first value will be indicated by a number between 0.5 and 5.0. This refers to the amount of prism correction needed. Some specialized labs can also produce prescriptions above 5.0.
This number is then followed by B (base). The base is the part of the lens that will be thicker and indicate the direction of the prism. There is BO (base out), BI (base in), BD (base down), and BU (base up).

How to order prism glasses online

Ordering prism glasses at SmartBuyGlasses is easy. After choosing the pair that best suits you, select your lenses. First, decide the type (distance, progressive, reading, or non-prescription). You will then be prompted to either fill in your prescription manually, upload it, send it later, or choose from your account. Below are the details for entering manually.

What does a prescription for a prism look like?

Enter distance corrected under SPH for the left and right eye
Astigmatism details go under CYL and AXIS
PD* (pupillary distance)
Select ‘add prism’ for a small fee and input the prism correction values

*PD is necessary to calculate correctly; an incorrect value can cause visual discomfort. You can get the correct measurement at your local optician or calculate it yourself with these easy steps in measuring your PD.

Ask our in-house opticians if you have any doubts about how to read and fill out your prescription online.

Prism lenses for daily life

Double vision can be uncomfortable and prevent you from doing everyday activities. Adding a prism to your lenses can restore your vision and improve your quality of life.

With an endless possibility of frame choices and an easy way to enter your prescription online, there is no reason double vision should continue impacting your life.

The Different Lens Packages We Offer

Learn how lens index and material affects glasses, and which of our lens packages is the right fit for you!

Tinted Glasses

For those with a more specific use in mind for their eyewear, it is worth checking the options of tinted...

The Different Lens Packages We Offer

Learn how lens index and material affects glasses, and which of our lens packages is the right fit for you!

Tinted Glasses

For those with a more specific use in mind for their eyewear, it is worth checking the options of tinted...

What Is Rimless Glasses – Everything You Need to Know

Home ⁄

Ask our opticians

Ask now

What is Rimless Glasses - Everything You Need to Know

By Emma Moletto

Reviewed by

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
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.

Dare to be rare – unique statement sunglasses

Home ⁄

Dare to be rare - unique statement sunglasses

Jacob

Jacob is a Turin-based Digital Marketing specialist from the UK. He uses his passion for writing to bring you all the latest news and interesting topics in the eyewear world!

“When you don’t dress like everyone else, you won’t have to think like everyone else.” – Iris Appel.

You’ll be able to find sacred-like, individualistic statement sunglasses that will make you feel like art itself. The creative frames in this style guide have been born for those who want to stand out from the crowd elegantly, without having to say a word.

Style is an art and you are the canvas. If ‘fashion’ has always been more than just clothing to you, and you crave to twist in a little ‘rarity’ to your outfits, then look no further.

Discover your persona with Etnia Barcelona

Etnia-Barcelona-Ibiza-04-Sun-Polarized-YWBR

The ‘cover me in sunshine’ sunnies, in the middle of a sunset party in Spain. There’s no better way to transform your outfit than with a radiating neon number. The unique statement sunglasses come from the loud and proud brand, Entia Barcelona. If you’re looking for a pair to be the lairy piece to your outfit, then the Etnia Ibiza’s will live up to their name. You’ll be able to find the savage ‘n swanky Etnia Barcelona frames in a range of unique eyeglasses and sunglasses, providing some of the finest fashion eyewear yet.

Get personal with Persol

Persol-PO0009-24BL-556335

The creative Persol X JW Anderson collaboration has created some of the most diverse eyewear and sunglasses collections yet. If you’re looking for your day-to-day glasses to become an expressive statement piece to any outfit that implements the most unique tones and body styles yet, then the Persol X JW Anderson Persol-PO0009-24BL-556335 piece is calling your name.

Persol is thriving and has recently secured some top collaborations with not only the artistic JW Anderson but a hit Netflix show, with the best-inspired frames yet. If you’re interested to find out more about these wildly unique frames and collaborations, then get to read the latest Persol blog online at SmartBuyGlasses.

This one-of-a-kind, unisex pair is recognized as one of the best fashion glasses for women and for men. To turn the artistic apparel up a notch, this Persol X JW Anderson frame also comes in a sunglasses range, in the patterns of the classy and tasteful, transparent grey, followed by a bold, balanced black.

Wondering if they’ll suit your face shape? Check out the life-saving face-shape guide by SmartBuyGlasses to see what frame shapes compliment you the most!

Feeling like a lord with Tom Ford

Tom-Ford-FT0882-Neughman-53E-536117

The adored Tom Ford’s. Starting in the early years of 2005, Tom Ford has brought to life some of the most unique fashion glasses for men and women. If you take a look at the collections, you’ll see that Tom Ford provides a diverse range of bold pieces, influencing wearers to stand out from the crowd, and being able to effortlessly do so with one bad-to-the-bone statement piece.

The Tom-Ford-FT0882-Neughman’s are one of the most timeless, statement sunglasses yet. They provide a taste of the ’70s, with an upgraded smooth and classy body to the frame. With these trendy golden tinted sunnies, all you’ll need is a faux fur coat and a pair of swanky sneakers to get you going.

You want them, and you want them now? You’ll be able to try on your dreamy glasses online, from the comfort of your home with the Virtual Try-On at SmartBuyGlasses, which will allow you to virtually! No ques, no fuss, no pressure!

Soar with Dior

Dior-DIOR-UMBRAGE-0X3-TN-352067

Total art in some glass. Have you ever seen a pair of trendy glasses like this before? This Dior Umbrage piece is a little slice of heaven for any artsy fashion lover. These statement sunglasses will enable you to create something conventional and to soar in the opposite direction with a rare fashion look, compared to regular styling.

The rare leafy lenses are the centrepiece of these delicate but eccentric sunnies. They highlight that style is more art than art itself. If you’re looking for a pair of fashionable sunglasses that excel beyond just being a pair of frames, but an outfit as a whole, then these diverse Dior frames have been made for you.

Slay all day with Chloé

Chloé CE-2743-214-478372

Ever find statement glasses that just sing to your soul? It’s not easy to always implement color into your daily outfits, which is why we have fashion eyewear! Sometimes, less is more, and all you need is that one perfect pair that provides you with multiple statements in one hit. The Chloé CE-2743-214-478372’s lightly convey sophistication with the oversized round body of the frames, and creativity, wildness, and confidence with the enthusiastic, warm and glowing orange double tone.

If you’re looking for a pair of state-of-the-art glasses that either kindly clash with any loud colors of your outfit, or become the utmost statement piece of your neutral paletted get-up, then these Chloe eyeglasses are perfect for your everyday, classy but sassy look.

Looking for more of a neutral tone? You’ll be able to collect the Chloé CE-2743-214-478372’s in the grounding, earthy tortoiseshell color.

Fashion fades by style is eternal, your bold accessories will forever be your eloquent armour…

Now that you have seen some of America’s best glasses, which statement piece stood out to you the most? If you want to dive deep and discover more gold dust collections, then head over to SmartBuyGlasses and shop until you drop!

If you loved discovering the unique, timeless, and one-of-a-kind collections and are looking for more fashion eyewear inspiration, then you’ll love the latest Isabel Marant style guide, which is all about sunglasses that speak to the soul.

Dare to be rare - unique statement sunglasses

Jacob

Jacob is a Turin-based Digital Marketing specialist from the UK. He uses his passion for writing to bring you all the latest news and interesting topics in the eyewear world!

“When you don’t dress like everyone else, you won’t have to think like everyone else.” – Iris Appel.

Style is an art and you are the canvas. If ‘fashion’ has always been more than just clothing to you, and you crave to twist in a little ‘rarity’ to your outfits, then look no further.

Discover your persona with Etnia Barcelona

Etnia-Barcelona-Ibiza-04-Sun-Polarized-YWBR

Get personal with Persol

Persol-PO0009-24BL-556335

Wondering if they’ll suit your face shape? Check out the life-saving face-shape guide by SmartBuyGlasses to see what frame shapes compliment you the most!

Feeling like a lord with Tom Ford

Tom-Ford-FT0882-Neughman-53E-536117

Soar with Dior

Dior-DIOR-UMBRAGE-0X3-TN-352067

Slay all day with Chloé

Chloé CE-2743-214-478372

Looking for more of a neutral tone? You’ll be able to collect the Chloé CE-2743-214-478372’s in the grounding, earthy tortoiseshell color.

Fashion fades by style is eternal, your bold accessories will forever be your eloquent armour…

Get Started

Service

Track my order

Popular Shapes

Popular Frame Types

Virtual Try-On

Popular Shapes

Sports

Polarised

Virtual Try-On

Lens Hub

Progressive Lenses

Lens Scanner

Frequency

Lens Type

Find What You Love

Recommended

Need Some Help?

Ask our opticians

What Are Asian Fit Glasses?

SUMMARY

What does Asian fit mean in glasses?

We have a solution!

Facial features

Can non-Asians wear Asian fit glasses?

What is the difference between Asian fit and standard fit?

Are Asian fit glasses smaller?

Extra nose pad features

DID YOU KNOW?

Frame type

Great-looking, better-fitting glasses

Ask our opticians

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

SUMMARY

What is blue light?

So is blue light harmful?

The purpose of blue light glasses

DID YOU KNOW?

What are the benefits of blue light glasses?

Reduced eye strain

Improved sleep quality

Enhanced comfort

Potential retinal protection

Minimised risk of macular degeneration

When should you use blue light glasses?

Are blue light glasses really necessary?

References

Related articles

Related articles

Ask our opticians

What is Blepharitis?

What are the causes of blepharitis?

DID YOU KNOW?

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Are there different types of blepharitis?

Anterior blepharitis

Posterior blepharitis

Am I at risk for blepharitis?

What not to do with blepharitis?

Blepharitis treatment

References

Astigmatism: Causes, Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Ask our opticians

SUMMARY

What is astigmatism, and how does astigmatism affect vision?

DID YOU KNOW?

What causes astigmatism?

Astigmatism symptoms

Types of astigmatism

Can I do an astigmatism test online?

How to correct astigmatism

Eyeglasses

Contact lenses

So, what is astigmatism?

Related articles

Related articles

Ask our opticians

How To Prevent Glasses From Fogging

Why do glasses fog up?

How to prevent glasses from fogging up