How Do I Know If My Eyeglasses Fit Correctly?
Vicci Eyewear
Mar 25, 2024
We've all been there—the glasses that slide down your nose every five minutes, pinch behind your ears or leave you feeling like you're constantly squinting. Ill-fitting glasses are more than just annoying; they can also contribute to headaches, eye strain, and blurry vision. The good news? Finding frames that fit properly is key to comfort and getting the most out of your prescription.
What Makes Eyeglasses Fit Well?
Let's break down the critical elements of a comfortable, well-fitting pair of glasses:
Frame Width: Ideally, your glasses should be about the same width as your face at the temples. Overly broad frames won't center the lenses over your eyes correctly.
Frame Measurements: You'll find three numbers printed on the inside of your frame's arm. These tell you the lens width, bridge width, and temple arm length in millimeters. They're a good reference point, but even frames with similar measurements can fit differently on your face.
Pupillary Distance (PD): PD is the distance between your pupils. Knowing your PD helps ensure your lenses are positioned correctly so you're looking through the ideal part for your prescription. An off-center fit can make vision blurry, especially with progressive lenses.
Face Shape: While there are guides about glasses for different face shapes, don't let them limit you! Comfort and your style are the most important factors.
How to Tell if Your Eyeglasses Fit
Here's what to look for:
- Comfortable and Secure
They shouldn't slide down easily or pinch your nose or behind your ears.
- Level
When you look straight ahead, the frames should sit evenly across your face.
- Centered Lenses
Your eyes should be roughly in the middle of each lens.
- Eyelashes
They shouldn't brush against the lenses when you blink (this can get smudgy!).
Why Do My Glasses Keep Sliding Down My Nose?
There are a few common culprits when it comes to constantly slipping glasses:
If your frames are too wide, they won't have enough grip to stay in place.
Quick Solution: Try a narrower frame or have an optician adjust your current pair if possible.
Nose pads help position your glasses correctly. If they're too low or have lost their grip over time, your glasses will slip.
Quick Solution: Adjust the nose pads yourself (if possible) or visit an optician for replacement or adjustment.
If you have naturally oily skin around your nose, it can cause glasses to slide more easily.
Quick Solution: Keep blotting papers or a cleaning cloth handy to remove excess oil before putting your glasses back on.
The arms of your glasses (temples) should curve gently behind your ears to keep things secure. If they're bent outward, your glasses will lose their grip.
Quick Solution: Many frames can be slightly re-bent. An optician can do this quickly and safely.
If the glasses sit too low on your nose
For plastic frames, use hot water (for 30-60 seconds) to soften the temples before bending the tips that sit behind your ears. Arch them and try them on again. The tips should sit sturdily behind your ears so the glasses won't slip.
For metal frames, simply push the nose pads closer until they fit right on your nose.
Tips for Finding the Right Eyeglasses Fit
- Your Starting Point
Medium-sized frames work for most people.
- Learn From Your Favorites
If you have a comfortable pair, note their measurements.
- Get Your PD Measured
Your optometrist can do this to get an accurate measurement.
- Adjustments Matter
Many frames have adjustable nose pads for a customized fit. Don't be afraid to ask an optician for help!
Conclusion
Finding well-fitting glasses takes a little attention to detail, but it's worth the effort. Not only will you look great, but you'll also see the world more clearly and avoid those annoying glasses-related headaches. Ready to experience the Vicci difference? Check out our website to find must-have frames and get the perfect-fit glasses!
