What to Avoid When Buying Glasses

Buying a new pair of glasses is an important decision. Not only do they affect your vision, but they also play a major role in your style and comfort. With so many options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or make mistakes that could lead to discomfort, poor vision, or an unflattering look. To help you avoid common pitfalls, here’s a list of things to avoid when buying glasses.

1. Avoid Frames That Don’t Suit Your Face Shape

One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying glasses is choosing frames that don’t match their face shape. The right frame can enhance your natural features, while the wrong one might look awkward or unbalanced. For instance:

• Round faces generally look better with angular or square frames to add definition.
• Square faces tend to benefit from round or oval frames to soften their features.
• Heart-shaped faces often suit frames that are wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, like cat-eye glasses.

Take the time to try different styles and consult a professional if you’re unsure. Don’t just choose frames based on what looks trendy – make sure they also complement your facial structure.

2. Avoid Glasses That Feel Uncomfortable

Glasses are something you’ll likely wear for hours at a time, so comfort is crucial. If they pinch your nose, press too tightly on your temples, or slide down your face constantly, you’ll regret the purchase. Always try on glasses before buying, and wear them for a few minutes to test how they feel.

If a pair looks amazing but is uncomfortable to wear, move on. There’s no point in suffering through daily discomfort just to make a fashion statement. Comfort should always come first when choosing glasses.

3. Avoid Frames That Are Too Heavy

Heavy frames may seem durable and stylish, but they can be a real pain after extended wear. They often cause pressure on the bridge of your nose and behind your ears, leading to headaches or soreness. Frames made from materials like acetate, titanium, or lightweight plastics are better for all-day wear. These materials are sturdy yet light enough to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Choosing lighter frames also helps prevent your glasses from constantly slipping down your nose, which can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you have an active lifestyle.

4. Avoid Choosing the Wrong Lens Material

Lenses are just as important as the frames themselves, yet many people don’t give them enough thought. Lens materials vary in thickness, weight, and durability, and choosing the wrong one can impact your vision and comfort. For example:

• CR-39 lenses are affordable and provide excellent optical quality, but they may be too thick for stronger prescriptions.
• Polycarbonate lenses are durable and impact-resistant, making them ideal for active individuals or children.
• High-index lenses are thinner and lighter, making them great for those with high prescriptions.

If you choose the wrong material, you might end up with lenses that are too heavy, too thick, or prone to scratches. Be sure to discuss your options with your optician.

5. Avoid Ignoring Lens Coatings

Lens coatings can make a world of difference in how comfortable your glasses are to wear. Anti-glare, UV protection, and scratch-resistant coatings are essential, but they’re often overlooked by people trying to save money. Skipping these coatings can lead to eye strain, glare from screens or bright lights, and even faster wear and tear on your lenses.

If you spend a lot of time in front of a computer, blue light filters are also worth considering to reduce eye fatigue. The cost of these coatings is usually worth the added comfort and protection.

6. Avoid Buying Glasses Without Proper Fitting

Getting the right fit for your glasses is crucial, and it goes beyond just choosing the right frame style. Glasses that don’t fit well can slip off your nose, feel tight behind your ears, or sit crooked on your face. The key aspects to look at when fitting glasses are:

• Bridge width: This ensures the glasses sit securely on your nose without pinching.
• Temple length: The arms of your glasses should sit comfortably behind your ears without digging into your skin.
• Lens height: This is especially important for people with progressive or multifocal lenses to ensure clear vision at all distances.

Skipping a proper fitting can lead to constant adjustments, discomfort, or even vision problems if the lenses aren’t aligned with your eyes.

7. Avoid Skipping Professional Advice

With online shopping becoming more popular, it’s tempting to buy glasses based solely on style or a recommendation you read online. However, prescription glasses are highly personal, and what works for one person may not work for you. Consulting with an optometrist or optician ensures you get the right lenses for your needs and the best fit for your face.

Opticians can also help guide you through the lens and frame selection process, offering advice based on your lifestyle, prescription, and personal preferences. Skipping this step can lead to glasses that don’t meet your needs or last as long as they should.

8. Avoid Buying Based on Price Alone

While it’s important to stick to a budget, choosing glasses solely based on price is a mistake. Cheaper glasses may cut corners when it comes to frame quality, lens material, or necessary coatings. They might not provide the comfort, durability, or vision clarity you need for everyday wear.

Instead, aim for a balance between cost and quality. Investing in a good pair of glasses can make all the difference in how you see and feel over the long term. Remember, your glasses are an investment in your health and style – it’s worth paying for quality.

9. Avoid Overlooking Your Prescription Needs

Finally, don’t forget that your prescription should be a major factor in your decision. If you have a strong prescription, choosing certain frame styles (like ultra-thin metal frames) might not be practical, as they could emphasize lens thickness or distort your vision.

Talk to your optometrist about which frames work best with your specific prescription. For instance, high prescriptions often pair better with thicker frames that hide lens edges, while lower prescriptions allow more freedom in choosing thinner frames.

Conclusion

Buying glasses is a mix of art and science – balancing style, comfort, and vision correction. Avoid the common mistakes listed above to ensure you end up with glasses that suit your face, lifestyle, and prescription needs. By prioritizing comfort, proper fitting, and professional advice, you can find a pair of glasses that you’ll love wearing every day.