What is the expected lifespan of my glasses?
Glasses’ Average Lifespan
It is common to hear one question among customers in the world of eyewear… How long will my frames last? Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think, but we will do our best to provide an answer. In addition to the durability of the frames and lenses, changes in your prescription, the type of lens coatings you use, and how well you care for your glasses, there are several factors that influence the lifespan of your pair of glasses. We will discuss all of these factors and determine when it is time to consider purchasing a new pair of spectacles.
Factors affecting the lifespan of your glasses
The Durability of Your Frames and Lenses:
Frames and lenses are significantly impacted by the quality of the materials they are constructed of. A frame constructed of robust materials such as titanium, stainless steel, or high-quality plastic generally lasts longer than a frame made of a less durable material. In contrast to some of the more traditional plastic or glass lenses, polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are significantly more resistant to scratches and cracks.
Your Eye Prescription:
Even if your current pair of lenses is in good condition, your eye prescription may change over time, so you will have to obtain a new pair. A new prescription might be necessary for adults every one to two years, whereas children and teenagers (whose eyes are still changing) may require a new prescription more frequently. It is not necessary to throw out your old frame if your prescription has changed. Your new prescription lenses can be fitted into your old frame if your frame is still in good condition.
Lens Coatings:
In addition to protecting your eyeglasses from minor scratches, anti-scratch coatings and anti-reflective coatings can also enhance your visual comfort. Anti-scratch coatings can extend their life, while anti-reflective coatings increase their clarity and visual comfort. The use of UV-blocking coatings is crucial for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. Your lenses can degrade over time, reducing the effectiveness of your glasses in correcting your vision and the quality of your vision over time. A new pair of glasses is necessary when this occurs.
Taking Care of Your Glasses:
In order to extend the lifetime of your glasses, you must both take care of them on a regular basis and maintain them as well. In order to prevent damage and to ensure that your glasses last as long as possible, you should regularly clean them, store them in a hard case when you are not using them, and handle them with care.
When should glasses be replaced?
Generally, a good-quality pair of sunglasses should last between one and three years. However, as we discussed above, various factors contribute to this.
What are the signs that you need new glasses?
Several signs indicate that you may need to replace your glasses, which you should be aware of. It is imperative that you have your eyes examined and possibly a new pair of glasses if you experience frequent headaches, blurred vision, eye fatigue, or you need to squint or strain to see clearly. Additionally, if your frames or lenses are damaged, such as cracked frames or bent frames, or if the coating on the lenses is peeling, then it may be time to replace them.
Can old prescription glasses be used?
If your prescription has significantly changed, using old prescription glasses may be harmful, although it is not harmful in general. When you wear glasses with outdated prescriptions, you may experience eye strain, discomfort, headaches and even a slight worsening of your vision over time due to the strain on your eyes. Your eyes must always be checked on a regular basis in order to ensure your prescription is current.
In summary
It is essential that you understand the factors that contribute to the longevity of your glasses. By doing so, you can make more informed decisions about when and where to purchase your next pair of glasses. Regular eye exams are absolutely essential for maintaining optimal eye health irrespective of how well-made or well-cared-for your glasses are. It may take several years for a pair of glasses to last, but it is your vision that endures for a lifetime.
