If you have a new pair of glasses, you’re on your way to better vision. Whether you’re wearing progressive lenses or stylish reading glasses, it’s normal to experience an adjustment period with your specs. This is especially true if you get a new type of frame or lens.
Reading this guide can help make the process easier. We’ll explain what to expect when you get your new pair. You’ll also learn how to make the switch more effortless and comfortable for your eyesight.
You may need time to make the switch
New glasses require some getting used to, but there are types of lenses that may have a more extended adjustment period. Understanding the possible length of time to transition will help you stay patient. Consulting with a Doctor of Optometry is your best resource for what to expect when getting a new pair of glasses. It will also let you know when to talk to your eye doctor. Here’s what to know about adjusting to different types of lenses:
No correction lenses
Many kinds of blue light glasses and polarized sunglasses do not have vision correction. For those who don’t require a prescription, you can still enjoy the benefits of blue light blocking and polarization to protect your eyes from glare. Since there is no correction on your lenses, your eyes and brain will not need to work too hard to get used to your new specs. While it’s usually easy to make a switch, some people may need to get used to wearing frames on their faces.
Reading glasses
Everyone’s eyes are different, but you may need days to switch to new readers or blue light reading glasses. Some people may require up to a week to get used to looking through reading lenses for near vision. If you have difficulty reading for longer, talk to an eye doctor or consider evaluating the strength of your specs. When you have the right readers, your near vision should appear sharper and more precise.
Progressive lenses
Progressive glasses include three different zones for your near, middle and distance vision. Having no lines is a stylish alternative to glasses like bifocals and trifocals, but you will need some time to adjust to your new lenses. In addition, your eyes and brain will need to learn how to look through the zones as you go about your day. For this reason, many people will need a week or up to three months before they feel comfortable with their specs.
You may have temporary vision symptoms
Everyone’s eyesight is unique, especially when adjusting to new glasses. You may experience temporary vision symptoms as you transition to the correct specs. For those who get new readers or blue light reading glasses, it’s common to experience eyestrain or blurry vision for a few days.
If you’re wearing bifocals or progressive lenses, some of the most common temporary side effects of wearing new glasses include headache and fuzzy eyesight. You may also notice that objects are “jumping” or “moving around” as you wear your glasses. These symptoms will subside as your brain and eyes adjust.
If you’re bothered by symptoms like nausea or balance problems, don’t hesitate to call your optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can review your prescription or vision correction needs to see if there’s anything they can do to create a more comfortable transition.
You may need to build tolerance to your glasses
Some people find they do better with their new glasses when they build a slow tolerance to their prescription. If your readers or progressives feel uncomfortable when you first put them on, try wearing them for a short time. Take them off, and then give yourself time to rest your eyes. The progression can help make the adjustment gentler on your brain and eyesight.
With this approach, you can slowly increase your time wearing your specs. Ramping up can help you avoid temporary vision-related symptoms like eyestrain or headaches, which is especially helpful for people who need their glasses for computer work or studying. If you have questions about ways to build a tolerance to your lenses, talk to an eye care professional.
Quality glasses make it simpler to switch
Now that you know what you can do at home and the doctor’s office, it’s time to shop for high-quality lenses. No matter what lenses you need, the right glasses will make it much easier to adjust to new specs. Today’s best reading glasses and blue light glasses include proprietary technology baked into the lenses to give you comfortable and clearer vision.
The tech inside the lenses will filter much of the high-energy visible blue light from your eyesight, all while helping you to enjoy unique lens clearness and the comfort of barely there tints. If you want a more relaxing transition, you can also consider the material of your glasses. Acrylic aspheric lenses are an example of those that are both ultra-thin and lightweight. Less bulk will make you feel like you’re hardly wearing specs.
At the same time, eyeglasses with an anti-reflective coating reduce glare, making it easier to adjust to reading sunglasses or progressive glasses for driving. Other helpful features for an easy transition include spring hinges for a more comfortable fit and lightweight polycarbonate frames to go with your thin lenses. Finally, if you’re choosing glasses to wear outside, be sure they include excellent UV protection. Blocking most of the UVA/UVB rays from the sun will help you to adjust even if your eyes feel sensitive.
Enjoying your new glasses
Now that you know how many people experience an adjustment period with their glasses, you will feel more confident about making the transition. Being patient with yourself while giving yourself time to switch makes the process simpler. Soon, you’ll see how much better your vision is when you’re wearing the correct specs.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you. How do you adjust to new glasses? What glasses do you have? How did you pick your glasses? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via email or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!