Glasses Care

Are you tired of constantly pushing your glasses back up your nose? If you have a problem where your glasses just keep sliding down, you're not alone.

This frustrating issue is a common problem for many. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to keep your glasses in place.

In this article, learn why it happens and get some practical tips on how to prevent it.

Why do glasses slip down one's nose?

The common culprits behind glasses that constantly slide down include ill-fitting frames, heavy lenses, oily or sweaty skin, and loose hinges.

1. Ill-fitting glasses

Many cases of glasses slipping occur due to improperly fitted frames that don't match your face shape.

This can occur when the frames are too heavy or wide, the temples are too long or short, or the bridge is too narrow or wide to provide sufficient support.

That's why getting the right glasses frames measurements for your face is essential.

2. Oily skin

Your skin produces oil naturally, which can often contribute to glasses slipping down.

The oil creates a slippery surface, making it harder for the glasses to grip onto the skin

3. Loose hinges

The hinges of your glasses play a crucial role in maintaining their overall structure and fit.

Over time, hinges can become loose due to wear and tear or accidental damage.

When this happens, your glasses may not sit correctly on your nose. This causes the weight distribution to shift, leading to more frequent slipping.

In some cases, a simple tightening of the hinges can be enough to solve the problem.

However, at other times, the hinges may need to be replaced entirely.

4. Sweating

As sweat accumulates on the skin, it can create a slippery surface that reduces the grip of the glasses, making them more prone to slipping down the nose.

This can be problematic during physical activity or in hot weather when sweating is more likely to occur.

Fortunately, there are easy and practical solutions to the problem of glasses sliding down your nose on your face without being too tight or loose.

How to keep glasses from slipping

1. Use an eyewear band or glasses chain

Aside from preventing glasses slippage, eyewear bands can add a stylish touch to your look. Source: Teen Vogue

Eyewear bands and glasses chains are popular options for those who want to ensure a snug fit for their glasses and prevent slipping.

These accessories attach to the glasses' temples, creating an additional anchor point behind the ears.

This helps to distribute the weight of the glasses more evenly and reduces the likelihood of them sliding down the nose.

Aside from their practical benefits, eyewear bands and glasses chains are also fashionable accessories that can add a stylish touch to your look.

Many celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Gigi Hadid, and Johnny Depp, have been spotted wearing these accessories.

2. Use an oil-free facial cleanser or moisturizer

Regularly washing your face with oil-free cleansers can reduce facial oil buildup, which is a common cause of glasses slipping down.

If you have oily skin, using an oil-free facial cleanser or moisturizer can help prevent your glasses from slipping down your nose.

Reducing the amount of oil on your face gives your skin a less slippery surface, improving the grip of your glasses.

Oil-free cleansers and moisturizers are formulated without added oils or emollients, two ingredients that can contribute to a greasy appearance.

Instead, they typically contain ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid that help to exfoliate the skin and reduce excess oil production.

If you wear makeup, it's best to choose products that are oil-free, non-comedogenic, and formulated for oily skin types.

These may include oil-free primer and foundation, oil-absorbing powder, blotting papers, and waterproof mascara.

3. Adjust your glasses at home

In some cases, your glasses' fit can be improved significantly with just minor tweaks that can be done at home.

Sometimes, you don't necessarily need to go to an optician to get them adjusted.

You can make simple adjustments at home to prevent your glasses from sliding down your nose.

Here are some tips based on the material of the frames:

Metal frames

If your glasses' temples or arms are too loose, gently bend them inward at the hinge to tighten the fit.

If the nose pads are too far apart, use a small pair of pliers to adjust them closer together gently.

If the nose pads are too tight, use the pliers to push them farther apart gently.

Plastic frames

Heat the temples with a hair dryer for a few seconds before bending them inward to tighten the fit if they are too loose.

Conversely, if the temples are too tight, heat them and turn them outward. In the case of crooked frames, you can gently bend them back into shape.

Acetate frames

Acetate frames are trickier to adjust because they're more delicate than other materials.

In cases like this, it's best to take these frames to an optician for adjustment.

However, you can still make minor tweaks by using warm water to soften the plastic and gently bending the frames into shape.

It's important to note that while you can make some adjustments at home, you should never use too much pressure as this can damage the frames or lenses.

If unsure, it's always best to take them to an optician for professional help.

4. Get your glasses readjusted with an optician

Opticians can give you professional advice on how to fix your glasses, especially if you're experiencing health or vision problems.

Aside from minimizing the slipping of your glasses, getting your specs readjusted can significantly improve their fit and comfort as well.

Readjustment is necessary in the case of poorly fitted glasses, which can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even vision problems. When this happens, it's time to see an optician.

Opticians are experts in this field, so they can efficiently pinpoint and fix any issues you may have with your glasses.

During the adjustment process, the optician will first assess the fit of your glasses.

They may adjust the shape of the frames, nose pads, temples, or hinges to ensure your glasses fit snugly.

5. Apply wax to nose pads

Beeswax is a popular option to apply on nose pads to keep glasses in place.

Another tip to prevent glasses from slipping down your nose is to apply wax to the nose pads.

This creates a better grip between your glasses and your skin. It's also easy to apply and remove, as well as a relatively inexpensive and non-invasive solution to the slipping problem.

One popular option is beeswax. This can be applied to the nose pads by gently rubbing them in.

Other alternatives include lip balm or silicone nose pad covers.

However, there are also some potential downsides to using wax.

Some people may be allergic to beeswax or other ingredients in the wax, which can cause skin irritation or redness.

Wax can also wear off over time and may need to be reapplied throughout the day, which can be inconvenient.

6. Choose more lightweight lenses or frames for your glasses

Lighter frames don't put as much pressure on the nose as heavy ones.

Choosing more lightweight frames or lenses is another solution.

Heavy glasses can put too much pressure on the bridge of your nose, making them more prone to slipping.

Here are some tips if you decide to make the switch:

Consider high-index lenses

High-index lenses are a great option for those with high prescriptions.

These lenses are thinner and lighter than traditional lenses, making them more comfortable to wear.

Additionally, they don't give your eyes the 'coke bottle effect' that thick lenses can have, so they'll look better too.

Look for frames made from lighter materials

Many types of frames are available nowadays, and some are lighter than others.

Materials like titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum are all lightweight options that can make a big difference in the comfort of your glasses.

Consider rimless or semi-rimless frames

Rimless or semi-rimless frames is another option to consider if you're looking for lighter glasses.

These frames have less material overall, making them more lightweight and comfortable.

Securing your glasses' fit with simple solutions

All in all, the issue of glasses slipping down your nose is easily fixable.

With just a few easy fixes, you can enjoy comfortable and clear vision all day long.

For more helpful tips, tricks, and guides about eyewear, check out Door2USA Prescription Glasses' blog!

Whether you're looking for advice on how to find the perfect frames or keep your glasses in tip-top shape, we've got you covered.

Nobody likes constantly wiping smudges off your eyeglasses and struggling with blurry vision. The solution? A high-quality glasses cleaner cloth.

Having a reliable pair of glasses and a great cleaner cloth is key to keeping your lenses clean and making sure you can always see clearly.

In this article, we'll explore the two main types of glass cleaner cloths, highlight the best options available on the market, and discuss how to use them effectively. We'll also share tips on how to keep yours in top condition for long-lasting use.

What kind of glasses cleaner clothes are available?

There are two types of cloth made for cleaning glasses: microfiber and disposable wipes.

One of the main advantages of microfiber cloths is that they can be used repeatedly.

Microfiber cloths are made of a soft, lint-free material that is gentle on lenses yet effective in removing dirt, grime, and fingerprints. They are often available in various sizes and are eco-friendly as well as cost-effective.

However, microfiber cloths can become saturated with dirt and grime if not washed regularly. This then reduces their effectiveness as a cleaning tool. To keep them in top condition, washing them regularly and storing them in a clean, dry place is essential.

Disposable wipes are convenient and quick to use, especially for those on the go.

Disposable wipes are pre-moistened with a cleaning solution and come in individually wrapped packets. These wipes are great for giving your glasses a thorough cleaning on the go.

As its name suggests, this type of glasses cleaner cloth is easy to use and can be disposed of after one use. Plus, the cleaning solution evaporates quickly, enabling your lenses to be streak-free after cleaning.

While disposable wipes are a convenient option for on-the-go cleaning, they can be more expensive in the long run compared to reusable microfiber cloths and aren't as environmentally friendly. It's also important to be cautious when using disposable wipes, as some may contain alcohol or harsh chemicals that could damage your lenses or coatings.

Best microfiber cloths for eyeglasses

1. Koala Kloth Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

The Japanese microfiber yarn used in this cleaning cloth offers ultra-fine and thorough cleaning.

With a honeycomb matrix design for ultra-absorption, it's safe for various modern lenses. This includes AR/VR glasses, professional camera lenses, telescopes, and binoculars.

2. Apple Polishing Cloth

If you're looking for a cloth specifically designed for Apple products, this one's for you.

It's designed to safely and effectively clean any Apple display, including nano-texture glass.

The Apple Polish cloth ensures that your display remains scratch-free while giving it a thorough clean. Source: Apple

3. MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

The versatile cloth is made with high-quality microfiber that effectively removes contaminants, including dust, oil, smudges, fingerprints, and dirt.

It provides a deep and thorough clean, without leaving any scratches, streaks, marks, or lint. Its versatility allows it to be clean not just eyeglasses but screens and lenses.

4. Care Touch Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

This cleaning cloth can be used for any type of eyewear, including prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, camera lenses, and other optics.

The high-quality microfiber material of the cleaning cloth is gentle on delicate surfaces while still being effective in removing dirt, dust, and smudges. Plus, it's reusable and machine washable.

The Care Touch Microfiber Cleaning Cloths are 100% safe to use on any delicate surface, including eyewear and lenses. Source: Amazon

5. Optix 55 Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

These microfiber cleaning cloths are soft and gentle, protecting delicate surfaces while effectively removing dust and dirt.

The reusable design and lint-proof material make them a long-lasting solution, while the machine-washable feature ensures they can be used consistently over time with little upkeep.

Best disposable eyeglass wipes

1. Zeiss Lens Cleaning Wipes

With their gentle, pre-moistened formula, the Zeiss Lens Cleaning Wipes can clean without leaving streaks or residue.

These wipes are designed specifically for lenses, including prescription or those with anti-reflective coating.

Zeiss Lens Cleaning Wipes offer up to 72 hours of clear, fog-free vision. Source: Zeiss

2. Nikon Pre-Moistened Cleaning Wipes

These wipes are an easy and safe way to clean your eyeglasses, sunglasses, camera lenses, and other optics.

They quickly remove smudges and dirt, are safe for lenses with anti-reflective coating, and leave no streaks or residue with their ammonia-free formula.

3. Optix 55 Eyeglass Cleaner Lens Wipes

The disposable wipes from this brand offer a quick and effective solution for removing dirt, grime, and residue.

Individually wrapped and pre-moistened, they are perfect for on-the-go use. The ammonia-free formula is safe for delicate lenses, including eyeglasses and sunglasses.

With its fine structure and optimal moisture level, Optix 55 wipes clean lenses without leaving streaks or smudges. Source: Amazon

4. Bausch & Lomb Wipes

Bausch & Lomb Wipes are a versatile solution for cleaning sunglasses and other surfaces, such as safety glasses, goggles, computer screens, automobile mirrors, and more.

These tissues come in a box of 100 and feature an easy dispensing design. Non-silicone based, they're safe for use on various surfaces.

5. Care Touch Lens Cleaning Wipes

These disposable wipes clean effectively and dry quickly without leaving streaks or residue.

They're safe for coated lenses and ideal for most optical applications, including eyeglasses, smartphone lenses, and larger surfaces.

With 39.5% isopropyl alcohol, Care Touch Lens Cleaning Wipes are milder and safer for lenses than alcohol prep pads. Source: Amazon

Using your glasses cleaner cloth the right way

1. Inspect your glasses

Before starting the cleaning process, inspect your glasses for any loose debris or dirt first. Gently brush them off your lenses with your fingertips.

2. Use the cloth with gentle pressure

Avoid scrubbing your lenses too hard, as this can scratch the surface. Instead, use a gentle, circular motion to remove dirt and grime.

3. Clean the entire surface

For thorough cleaning, it's crucial to clean the entire surface of your lenses, including the edges and corners where dirt and grime tend to accumulate.

Tips to keep your glasses cleaner cloth in top condition

1. Regular washing

This removes dirt and grime that accumulates over time. To do so, make sure to wash your cloth in warm water with a gentle detergent.

2. Avoid fabric softeners

Fabric softeners can leave a residue on your cloth that scratch your lenses, so avoid using them when washing your cloth.

3. Air-dry, not tumble

After washing your cloth, let it air-dry instead of putting it in the dryer. The heat from the dryer can damage the microfiber fibers, reducing its effectiveness as a cleaner cloth.

Letting your cloth air dry prevents any bacteria buildup and keeps it clean and fresh.

4. Proper storage

To preserve its effectiveness as a cleaning cloth, keep the microfiber cloth away from direct sunlight and extreme heat, as these can damage its fibers. It's best to store your cloth in a clean, dry place when not in use.

The importance of having the right glasses and cleaner cloth

If you're tired of dealing with dirty glasses, a high-quality glasses cleaner cloth can make all the difference. It'll not only keep your vision clear but also help extend the life of your lenses.

Microfiber cloths are reusable and cost-effective but require regular washing. On the other hand, disposable wipes offer convenient and quick cleaning on the go but may cost relatively more in the long run.

When using your glasses cleaner cloth, inspect your glasses, use gentle pressure, and clean the entire surface of your lenses. To keep your cloth in top condition, regularly wash them, avoid fabric softeners, air-dry them, and store them in a clean, dry place.

With these tips, your glass cleaner cloth will always be ready to clean your lenses and keep them smudge-free.

Eyeglasses are something that many of us take for granted. They're annoying, they go missing at inconvenient times – and why does it feel like our eyes are getting worse every year?

But for many people in the world, eyeglasses are a precious commodity. Billions need them, but go without because they can't afford them or because the necessary prescription is too rare. When it's time to say goodbye to your next pair of specs, don't just toss them in the trash – there's someone out there who can use them.

So, where exactly can you donate your old eyeglasses? Here's a comprehensive guide to eyewear sustainability in the US.

Where can you donate old eyeglasses?

If you're considering moving to a new prescription, or if your old eyeglasses are just taking up space in your medicine cabinet, donating them is a much better alternative to throwing them away. There are two main options, in that case: donating online or donating in-store. Let's take a look at each option in more detail.

Donating your old eyeglasses online

One great way to donate your old eyeglasses is by going online. This has the added benefit of being extremely easy – you can simply package up your glasses and send them right from your home. Most online organizations have stopped accepting donations, but ReSpectacle is still actively looking for gently-worn pairs to be donated.

Recognizing the power of the internet for connecting people in need with resources, ReSpectacle accepts donations via mail and then uploads them to a database for people to search for their specific prescriptions. You can donate your glasses to the address listed on their website here.

Donating in-store

Fortunately, there are many more options available to you when donating your glasses in-store. Second-hand stores, like Goodwill and the Salvation Army, are always in need of gently-used eyeglasses to resell in their stores. You can also donate directly to local optical clinics or Lions Clubs.

Here are a few of the best options and instructions for donating your old eyeglasses in-store:

• GoodwillYou can donate your glasses at any Goodwill location in the United States. Just look for the donation bin near the entrance, and make sure to remove all personal information from the frames before you donate them.
• Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army also welcomes donations of gently-used eyeglasses. You can find your nearest drop-off location here.
• Lions Club International (LCI)In the US, there are seven LCI dropoff points specifically set up for old glasses donations. You can also drop them off at any Lions Club office.
• Walmart Vision CentersWalmart has partnered with RestoringVision to provide free eyeglasses to people in need all over the world. You can donate your old glasses at any Walmart Vision Center in the US.
• RetailersThere are several glasses retailers in the US that currently accept donations. These are America's Best, David Kind, and Lens Crafters. Take your old frames to any of their locations, and they will be recycled into new glasses for people in need.

Why donate your old eyeglasses?

For those of us with plenty of money to spend on healthcare and eyewear, it can be easy to take our vision for granted. But for millions of people around the world, buying a new pair of glasses each year is simply not an option.

That's why donating your old eyeglasses is one of the best ways to ensure that people in need have access to proper vision care. By donating your old glasses, you can help someone in need see clearly again and get back to work, school, or everyday life.

Plus, it's easy to do!

Just think about all the pain and frustration you'll be saving the person who receives your old glasses:

• They'll be able to read without squinting or straining their eyes.
• If they are a child, they'll be able to do better in school.
• They won't have to spend hours every week looking for a cheap pair of glasses that will likely not suit their needs.
• Bigger health concerns, like diabetes and hypertension, can be managed with better vision.

So next time you're ready to upgrade to a new pair of glasses, don't just toss your old ones in the trash. Find a local donation center or retailer and give back to those who need it most.

Tips when donating old eyeglasses

Before you donate your old eyeglasses, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Ensure cleanlinessAlthough the organization you donate to will likely clean the glasses before redistributing them, it's always a good idea to clean the glasses first. Use a homemade eyeglass cleaning solution or soap and water mix to clean the lenses and frames, then air dry them.
• Remove all personal informationIt's important to remove any personal information from the eyeglasses before you donate them. This includes your name, address, phone number, and any other identifying information.
• Check the condition of the eyeglassesDon't donate any eyeglasses that are broken or missing pieces. They'll likely just end up in the trash.

Also keep in mind that, because you are donating, there are tax implications to consider also:

• Only donations to qualified charities are eligible for a tax deduction. Check for qualified organizations here before you make your donation.
• Determine the fair market value – or the price you'd be willing to pay for your glasses – and document it. You can use this value to claim a deduction on your taxes.
• A fair market value of over $250 will require a receipt if you want a successful deduction.

Once you've considered the points above, congratulations – you're ready to donate! Someone in need will be very grateful.

Is it safe to donate your glasses?

This is a common question and a valid one. After all, you wouldn't want to donate a pair of glasses that would end up hurting someone's eyes. And what about hygiene?

Fortunately, it is indeed safe to donate your glasses. They'll be washed and sanitized before they're given to someone in need, and most organizations have very strict quality control measures in place.

As for hygiene, it's always a good idea to clean your glasses with a mild alcohol solution before you donate them. This will help keep the glasses clean until they reach the person who needs them.

What if your glasses can't be donated?

If, for some reason, you are unable to find an organization that will accept your old glasses, you can always recycle them. This is a good option if the glasses are broken or otherwise unusable.

To recycle your old eyeglasses, take them to your optician or glasses retailer in case they have a recycling program. They'll be more likely to get turned back into new glasses if they're recycled this way.

Otherwise, you can recycle them at a nearby recycling center. Just make sure that the lenses are separated from the frames, as they can be recycled in different ways (plastic is recycled differently from glass).

There is also the option of reselling your old glasses on eBay or another online marketplace. You could donate the proceeds to a charity that supports eyeglasses donations. Even better!

Wrap up – donating old glasses is a great idea

Sadly, there are not enough people seeking out articles like this to donate their old eyeglasses. It is a shame as there are so many people who need them and could use the help. Research has found that 780 million contact lenses are thrown out each year in the US – so it's anyone's guess as to how many pairs of old eyeglasses face the same end.

You can change this pattern by being proactive about donating or recycling your old glasses. Resist the temptation to simply buy a new pair and leave the old ones at the bottom of a drawer (it's tough, we know), and take a few minutes to find a donation center or recycling program near you. You can feel good knowing that you're helping people in need and doing your part to reduce eyeglass waste.

Remember that even if you only donate one pair of glasses every couple of years, it can make a real impact. One person with better vision – and by extension, a better quality of life – is far better than none.

We've all been there – you're in the middle of doing something, and you can't find your glasses. Suddenly, the world is a blur, and you feel hopeless without your trusty spectacles.

If you're a frequent glasses-loser, don't give up hope just yet – check out our tips below!

Did you check these 11 places for your glasses?

Before you begin searching, take a deep breath and clear your mind. You can do this! Those sneaky little spectacles usually have their favorite hiding spots, anyway – so it's worth checking these places first:

1. On your desk

This is a common one, especially if you've been working on something and haven't moved your glasses in a while. Check your desk or any other surface you may have been using recently.

2. In your pocket

Sometimes, we shove our glasses in a spare pocket without even thinking about it. Autopilot takes over when you least expect it! Make sure to check your pants pockets, jacket pockets, and even your back pockets.

3. In your bag

Do you carry around a purse, tote bag, or backpack? Your glasses could be in there. Check all the pockets and compartments to see if they're hiding away. If your bag is a dark color on the inside, it can help to use a torch.

4. On your couch

The couch is another common spot. Perhaps your glasses have wriggled into one of the cushion cracks? Try looking behind, underneath, or even between the cushions.

5. On your bed

Everyone loves a good nap, and perhaps your glasses are no different. Check if they've snuck under the covers for a quick 40 winks, or between the mattress and box spring.

6. In your book

Glasses make excellent bookmarks on the go, but not if you forget to replace them with something else. If you're looking for your glasses and can't find them anywhere else, check any books you were reading recently.

7. In your bathroom

The bathroom is another common place for glasses to hide. They could be in the sink, in the toilet, or even in the shower! If you're really lucky, they might even be hanging around your neck while you shower (been there, done that).

8. In your car

Did you use your car recently? Your glasses could be there. They always seem to end up under the seat or in between the cracks of the seats. Give your car a good once-or-twice-over and see if you can find them.

9. In your refrigerator

When putting things away in the fridge, an absent mind can lead you to put your glasses in the fridge right alongside your stick of butter. If you have a habit of doing this, check the fridge first before panicking.

10. In your hair

Is your hair long and luscious, or big and bushy? Your glasses might have found their way in there. Check for them before you go to bed and give your head a good shake to see if they fall out.

11. On your face

Believe it or not, this isn't a silly suggestion. Sometimes you're so used to the way your glasses feel, that you forget to check the most obvious place of all – your face!

A bonus tip for finding your glasses with blurry vision

, Unlike your glasses, your smartphone is always by your side (usually). So, if you're struggling to find your glasses, try using your phone to help you.

Open your phone camera and use it to scan your surroundings. It will give you HD vision while your glasses are MIA. Use the zoom button or the flash button if you have to; you'll find them soon enough!

How to stop losing your glasses

If you are always losing your glasses, you're probably a bit frustrated. But don't worry, there are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening.

1. Keep them in a case

This is probably the most obvious solution, but it's also the most effective. When you're not wearing your glasses, make sure to put them in a case so that they're less likely to get lost or damaged.

Cases are also easier to spot from afar than your frames. If the case that came with your glasses looks boring, you can shop around online for more eye-catching (no pun intended) cases.

2. Assign a throne for them

Make your glasses feel regal and important by putting them in the same spot each time you take them off. Maybe it's a special spot on your nightstand or a coat hook by the door.

The key is to make sure they have their own space so that you can always find them when you need them.

3. Maintain a routine

This one is for the forgetful folks. If you have a hard time remembering where you put your glasses down, try to establish a routine of sorts.

For example, always put your glasses on the counter when you walk in the door or the same drawer every night before bed. Creating a habit will help your brain remember where they are even when you can't see them.

4. Get a glasses strap

This is especially helpful if you're constantly misplacing your glasses or if you're an active person who doesn't want to worry about losing them while you're out and about. There are a variety of different straps you can buy, so find one that fits your style and personality.

5. Put a tracker on them

If you're worried about losing your glasses, you can always put a digital tracker on them. That way, if they ever go missing, you can easily find them using your phone or another device. iPhone owners can invest in an Apple AirTag to attach to a glasses strap. Alternatively, the Orbit Glasses Bluetooth tracker is designed specifically for attaching to glasses and comes with its app.

6. Make them glow in the dark

Give your glasses that much-needed glow by coating the frames in some glow-in-the-dark paint. You can also buy special glow-in-the-dark tape to stick on them. The next time your glasses go missing, just turn off the lights and look for those glowing frames.

7. Give them a sibling

Are your glasses lonely? Then, perhaps it's time to buy a second pair! If you have the budget, purchase some extra glasses so that they can fill in when your first pair is taking a break from you.

What to do if they're gone for good

If they successfully escaped from you, don't worry. It's not the end of the world! Nowadays, it's easy to get a new pair of glasses online and have them ordered straight to your doorstep. Check out Door2USA Prescription Glasses' collection and find yourself a new pair of glasses.

Our frames are functional but stylish; and most importantly, they won't leave your face unless you say so!

Over time, you might start to notice some changes in your eyeglasses. They might start to rust, or their lenses may even start to yellow.

When that happens, it can be pretty annoying or even alarming.

Luckily, there's no need to panic because we're here to help you figure out what to do if your glasses lenses start turning yellow.

Why is this happening?

These are the most common reasons why your lenses turn yellow:

• Normal wear and tear that comes with time.
• Overexposure to sunlight.
• Oxidation of plastic.

On that note, it's worth remembering that some lenses have a yellow tint to begin with, depending on the type of plastic used and the purpose of the lenses. Yellow is a common color for hunting or night driving glasses. They help you see clearly on the road during nighttime, filter out blue light, and provide contrast in low-light conditions. Additionally, they help reduce glare caused by reflective surfaces.

With these glasses, you don't have to worry as much about eyestrain, especially during the night.

How long do glasses take to yellow?

The more often you wear your eyeglasses outdoors, the quicker they'll turn yellow.

Glasses normally start turning yellow after 2-3 years. The more frequently you wear yours outdoors, the sooner they start to yellow due to UV ray exposure and oxidation.

Fortunately, there are ways to slow down the process. Keeping your glasses away from UV rays when not in use and cleaning them regularly helps with that.

Sunlight and chemicals on the surface of the lenses often cause photodegradation, so the rate of photodegradation is slowed when some of the chemicals are removed.

However, if you discover that your glasses are yellowing earlier than that, you might have purchased a pair that lacks a strong anti-UV coating. Eyeglasses usually come with one, but not all manufacturers will cover the lenses with a thick coating.

Is it a bad thing for my glasses lenses to turn yellow?

The yellowing of lenses is generally harmless. However, it doesn't mean you should keep using your glasses, as it also means they may have declined in performance. Your lens' coating starts to weaken and you'll even have a harder time seeing properly and seeing true colors.

When this happens, you should speak with your optometrist and inquire about getting new glasses to protect your eyes and maybe even update your prescription.

How do I reverse the yellowing of glasses lenses?

Cleaning your glasses may help get some superficial yellowing off your glasses:

• Apply a cleaning solution to a clean cloth.
• Clean the lenses with a clean cloth to remove the coating.
• Use a microfiber cloth rather than paper towels to not scratch the surface of the lenses.
• Hold the lenses in one hand and rub them gently while using the other hand to hold the microfiber cloth.
• Do circular movements and see if the yellowing of your lenses starts to fade.

Cleaning your glasses regularly ensures it stays in tip-top condition for longer. Source: Gerstein Eye Institute

However, experts usually recommend changing eyeglasses immediately once the lenses start to yellow. It's generally accepted that you cannot undo the yellowing of your lenses without seriously harming your eyeglasses. Worn-out eyeglasses can result in numerous problems such as soreness or itching of your eyes or vision problems such as double vision.

That's why we recommend talking to your optician about getting a new pair of glasses. This could also be an opportunity to get an eye exam and update your prescription, especially if it's been a while since your last eye test. This ensures that your glasses lenses continue to fit well and help you see well.

Additionally, you might want to get in touch with your eyewear manufacturer if your lenses turn yellow fairly quickly. If they're still under the warranty period, you have a chance of getting your glasses replaced for free, no questions asked.

You can also check with your vision insurance provider if you're entitled to a new pair of glasses under your plan. Usually, if you've worn your existing pair for more than a year, you can get a replacement or a new pair at a discounted rate.

Ways to keep glasses lenses from yellowing

Giving your glasses proper TLC is the best way to keep lenses yellowing at bay. Here are the main dos and don'ts you can easily integrate into your routine.

• DO clean them dailyCleaning your glasses is a great way to maintain their strength and performance. Make sure to clean them regularly so they're always in top condition. Maintaining good eyewear hygiene also helps reduce the transmission of bacteria, lessening your risk of any eye disease.
• DO store them properly store your glasses in a place where they won't fall/break easily, like a sturdy glasses case. It's also best to keep them away from direct sunlight.
• DON'T polish them with your clothesPolishing your glasses with clothes can seriously damage the lenses, like scratching them or eroding any protective/functional coating. Make sure to always use a microfiber cloth to clean them.

Yellow means stop (using your glasses)

To sum it up, the yellowing of your glasses is neither a good nor bad thing — it's just something that happens over time. However, like most things, you can prolong the lifespan of your glasses by taking good care of them and practicing good maintenance habits.

More importantly, the yellowing of lenses in glasses is usually a sign for you to get a new pair.

If you're in the market for a new pair, you can check out a wide selection of eyeglasses on Door2USA Prescription Glasses. Happy browsing!