Last Updated on July 31, 2023 by Janie Wilson
Eyeglasses have become an absolute necessity for more than half of the world, by providing clearer vision and improving daily life. But like anything else, eyeglass lenses wear out over time, which affects their functionality and therefore your vision. It is incredibly important to be able to tell when your eyeglass lenses need replacing, so your vision doesn’t worsen. Let’s take a look at a few common indications that it’s time for new lenses.
1. Visual Distortions and Blurriness
One of the most obvious signs that you need replacement lenses for glasses is when you begin to notice visual distortions or blurriness; basically, when you don’t see clearly with your glasses anymore. If you are constantly squinting to be able to see with your glasses, that’s a pretty obvious sign that it’s time to visit your optometrist for an eye exam. Even if you don’t notice any blurriness or visual distortions, you should still be getting an eye exam at least every two years. However, visual distortions don’t always mean that your prescription has changed. They may indicate that your current lenses have developed scratches, warping, or other forms of wear that affect their clarity.
2. Scratches and Damage
It’s natural that with frequent use will come some form of damage. It’s pretty likely that after a while there will be scratches or other forms of damage on your lenses. Minor scratches can certainly be tolerable, but deep scratches or significant damage can hinder your vision and create distractions. You should always inspect your lenses for visible scratches, cracks, or chips. If you feel like the damage affects your vision, that means it’s definitely time to get new lenses.
3. Fading Lens Coatings
Nowadays almost all eyeglasses come with a series of coatings and treatments like anti-glare, anti-scratch, or UV protection. Over time, these coatings can actually fade or wear off, so you won’t be doing the job they’re supposed to. If you notice that your lenses no longer repel water, reduce glare, or protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, you should definitely consider replacing them and refresh their coatings.
If you start noticing that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to clean your eyeglass lenses, and smudges persist even after using a proper lens cleaner, that’s a sign that the lens coating is deteriorating. When lens coating starts to fade, the lenses actually become harder to clean, making it harder to maintain a clear view. Replacing the lenses will restore the effectiveness of these coatings, improving your overall visual experience.
4. Yellowing or Discoloration
If you notice that your eyeglasses are becoming noticeable yellow or discolored, this could be caused by too much exposure to UV light. Yellowing lenses very much affect your vision and also don’t look very flattering. They don’t necessarily impact the functionality of the lenses, but they could cause headaches and eye pain. In this case, it’s definitely a good idea to refresh your lenses so you’ll have clearer vision, and look better with your glasses.
5. Lens Warping or Misalignment
Over time, eyeglass lenses can undergo subtle changes, leading to warping or misalignment. You may notice that your glasses sit unevenly on your face or cause discomfort due to an improper fit. This can occur due to regular wear and tear, exposure to extreme temperatures, or accidental drops. If you experience persistent discomfort or observe visual disturbances caused by lens warping or misalignment, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to consider new lenses.
Tips for Lengthening the Lifespan of Your Eyeglass Lenses
Of course it’s important to replace your lenses when needed, but with proper care, you can extend their lifespan, maintain their effectiveness and save some money! You should always be cleaning your lenses correctly; make sure to use a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. You should definitely avoid using harsh chemicals that can scratch your lenses. Another thing you should keep in mind is where you are storing your glasses. Make sure that they are always stored in a protective case to prevent accidental damage or scratches. Whenever you are putting on or taking off your glasses, you should always use both hands to prevent bending or misaligning the frames. Also keep in mind that exposing your eyeglasses to extreme heat or cold can damage the lenses and frames, so you should try to avoid extreme temperatures when you can.
Your eyeglasses play a crucial role in helping you see the world clearly, so it’s essential to recognize the signs that your lenses need replacing. Visual distortions, blurriness, frequent headaches, scratches, fading coatings, and outdated prescriptions are all indications that it’s time for new lenses. By taking proper care of your eyewear, you can lengthen the lifespan of your lenses and make sure that they continue to provide optimal vision correction. Remember to visit your optometrist regularly to maintain an accurate prescription and be able to find any changes in your eyesight as soon as possible. With proper attention and care, your eyeglasses will continue to serve you well in your daily activities and beyond!
