Wearing old glasses or sunglasses can hurt your vision. Outdated prescriptions lead to eye strain and headaches, while scratched lenses reduce clarity and safety. However, replacing them too often can be costly.

 

Prescription Glasses Need Replacing for Several Reasons

Your vision prescription changes over time. Annual eye exams can catch these shifts, and even small changes can make your current glasses less effective. If you find yourself squinting at screens or struggling to focus, your lenses may be outdated. Replacing them can prevent discomfort and improve your vision.

 

Deep scratches on lenses are another sign that replacement is needed. Scratches scatter light and create glare, making it harder to see, especially while driving at night. Cloudy lenses also reduce contrast, further hindering your vision. If your lenses are scratched in your direct line of sight, it is time for new glasses.

 

Frames that slip or feel crooked can be problematic. They create pressure behind your ears and require constant adjusting, which can be distracting. Bent frames can distort your peripheral vision, and plastic frames tend to become brittle over time.

 

Lens coatings wear out as well. Anti-glare coatings can peel, and yellowed lenses lose their UV protection. Foggy coatings trap moisture, causing more irritation. If your lenses appear cloudy, the coatings may be breaking down, and it is time to replace them.

 

Your visual needs may also change. If you spend more time on digital screens, you may need blue light filtering lenses. Bifocal users should switch to progressive lenses.

 

Sunglasses Need Regular Replacement Too

Sunglasses should be replaced regularly, especially if the UV protection starts to fade. After about two years, the UV protection in sunglasses can weaken, leaving your eyes vulnerable to harmful rays. If your sunglasses no longer block UV light effectively, replace them. Opticians can test the UV protection strength of your lenses.

 

Visible damage also affects the functionality of your sunglasses. Warped frames create gaps for sunlight to enter, and deep scratches can magnify glare, especially near water. Bent arms can reduce the coverage area, leaving your eyes exposed to UV. Saltwater can also damage metal hinges over time.

 

Poor fit can also compromise protection. Sunglasses that slip off your face do not provide the UV protection they should. Heavy frames can cause pressure headaches, making it hard to wear them for long periods. Consider wraparound styles for a more secure fit.

 

Replacement Timelines Vary by Eyewear Type

Most prescription glasses last one to two years, depending on wear and tear. Reading glasses may need replacement sooner. Daily sunglasses typically last about two to three years, but sports sunglasses require yearly safety checks. Children’s eyewear often needs size upgrades more frequently.

 

Some Situations Demand Immediate Replacement

Some issues require immediate replacement. Cracked lenses near the center can be dangerous and should be replaced immediately. Bent frames that distort your vision should also be fixed. If your sunglasses have lost their polarization, it is time to replace them. Children's ill-fitting frames can impact their vision development, so be sure to get them replaced if they are no longer the correct size.

 

For more on eyeglasses and sunglasses, visit Charlotte Jones Opticians at our office in New York, New York. Call (347) 603-9247 to book an appointment today.

 

https://www.optometristsclinic.com/how-often-do-you-need-to-replace-your-glasses-and-contact-lenses/

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