Common issues of eyeglass frames

Frame size numbers

The size of eyeglass frames also has a standard format, such as 48-18-142. The first number is the size of the lenses and the second number represents the bridge size. The third one indicates the temple length. Different wearers require individual frame measurements and fitting. With these standardized size measurements, manufacturers can provide accurate eyeglass frames. While buying eyeglasses either at a local or online store, customers are sometimes asked to provide the necessary frame size numbers, with which the optician can maximize frame comfort and fit.

Vertex distance affects visual acuity

Some high myopes find that they can see better with plastic frames rather than metal ones with nose pads. The distance between the back surface of the lenses and the front of the eyes is named vertex distance, which can be increased by equipping nose pads in metal frames. Plastic frames with a shorter vertex distance are more suitable for highly myopic people. More specifically, some metal frames have unadjusted nose pads, creating a greater vertex distance and making the wearer see a poor-fitting bridge easily. Plastic frames do not involve any nose-pad adjustment and the bridge will always stay at a right place.

Nose pad materials

Some eyeglass wearers are sensitive to silicone, which can be found in the nose pads of eyeglass frames, resulting in red skin, irritation or blister-like sore. Vinyl nose pads help avoid silicone sensitivity. These nose pads come in various sizes and shapes, and sometimes require personal adjustments. In fact, non-silicon nose pads are commonly recommended by trained opticians for people who have sensitivity to silicone. Indeed, the weight of eyeglass frames is also critical. Light and well-adjusted frames impose less pressure on the nose. Some eye doctors also suggest contact lenses.

Photochromic glasses for children

Certain parents want to get special sun clips for their children’s particularly small frames of eyeglasses. But in most cases, those custom-made clips are quite unaffordable. Fortunately, there is a good alternative for these bothered parents. Photochromic lenses combined with polycarbonate materials are the best solution for children who need adequate UV protection. Photochromic lenses are capable of changing lens darkness in response to specific lighting conditions. They offer normal vision correction indoors when the lenses are clear, and provide 100% UV protection outdoors when the lenses become dark. Most people know that polycarbonate has inherent UV protection, so that it has become the perfect material for children’s prescription sunglasses. In conclusion, this type of eyeglasses eliminates the extra expense of sun clips yet still guarantees UV protection and eye safety.