Trying a new pair of specs is rather like breaking in a new pair of shoes – you think they’re comfy to start with and then the pinching starts! There are common issues with the way that glasses sit on the face, so here are some facts about fit!
The first thing to note is that the heavier your glasses, the more you will notice any problems with the fitting. So always choose smaller frames and thin material lenses if you are sensitive to the weight. The frame should only rest on the bridge of your nose and behind each ear, so if it rests on your cheek, or presses on the sides of your head, the spex need adjusting. These areas where the frames should touch are plastic or silicone, to prevent reaction with the skin and for easy replacement. If metal frames constantly touch the skin you’ll probably react to the metal eventually as your skin acids may eat through the protective layers on your frame. So the rule is, make sure they only touch at the three points mentioned, and if they get knocked or start to sit on the face anywhere else, get them altered.
Most opticians will be happy to adjust your glasses for you, most don’t charge for this service. It will always be at your own risk though – if you tread on your specs and flatten them they may break when force has to be applied to put them right! Always tell the optician if the glasses have suffered an accident.
If you leave your specs anywhere hot, the frame or even the lenses may warp, so keep them off dashboards, and away from radiators and other heat sources. Don’t squash them into pockets or cram them into handbags if there isn’t enough room! Your specs will obviously last longer if you don’t need to keep having them straightened.
If your glasses break never try to repair them with superglue – this turns the lenses opaque, and clogs up joints. Apply a bit of sticky tape if it’s an emergency and get them to an optician for repair. If you ever feel the need to bend them yourself then dip them in hot water first to make them more malleable, and gently ease them into shape. Don’t apply too much force and make sure they won’t burn you before you touch them. If your frame does start to hurt get it adjusted as soon as possible – if blisters form it’s hard to let them heal.