The Importance of Regularly Replacing the Lenses on Your Sunglasses

Getting new sunglasses may seem like an unnecessary expense, especially if you don’t feel like your current sunglasses need to be replaced. After all, they fit you just perfect and if you can still see through them, they’re probably still in good condition, right? Wrong! Experts advise that sunglasses should be replaced if the lenses have become damaged or unserviceable in any way. Furthermore, researchers in Brazil have reported that the sun’s rays damage the lenses over time, meaning they offer less protection against UV rays. According to them, we should all be getting a new pair of sunglasses in two years. Considering that UV exposure to the eye can result in cataracts , macular degeneration and a higher risk of ocular tumours, we should all follow that advise.

The great news is that you don’t necessarily have to buy new sunglasses. Instead, you can simply replace the lenses on your sunglasses. Replacements lenses can be added without changing the frame. In the past, the lenses that came with the frame (branded or not), were usually one of a kind and couldn’t be replaced. Nowadays, thanks to online services, replacing the lenses of sunglasses has been made much easier and simpler. The retailers that offer replacement lenses take the sample of the current lenses and the frame and then customizes the new lens according to the client’s demands and previous glass frame.

What Should You Do If You Need Lenses Replacement?

• The first thing you should do is look for a logo or brand name printed on the outside temple of the frames. This will help you identify which brand of sunglasses you have if you don’t know.
• Find the frame name by looking for a name or logo printed on the inside temple of the frames. Check for qualifiers such as an “S” or an “L” which indicate frame or lens size. Keep in mind that some brands have multiple editions made over the years of the same frame type. If the website from which you are planning to make a purchase lists a year with the frame model name, click the “confirm fit” button on the product page to make sure you selected the right one.
• If you don’t see a frame name on your sunglasses, there may be an SKU number to identify the frame. An SKU generally looks something like this: MJ103 or RB 2132.
• Some frames have multiple sizes. The size is usually the number found after the SKU and before the square ▢ symbol.

Types of Lenses

When replacing the lenses of your sunglasses you will have the chance to choose a new type to match your current preferences.

• Polarized lenses – Whether used in the sun, rain or snow, polarized lens reduce sun glare and reflection. These lenses also increase visual clarity and protect the eyes from UV rays.
• Mirrored Coating – Lenses that have a mirror coating are a great option for a high-fashion look. Mirrored coating lenses also reduce glare and helps prevent eye fatigue.
• Shades of Gray Tint – These lenses are very popular because they can be used on both cloudy and sunny days. They provide anti-fatigue benefits and overall protection from glare, especially glare shining off the water and wet roads. They are suitable for outdoor activities including fishing, cycling, and active sports. And for nature enthusiasts, grey lenses offer the added benefit of allowing the colour of the object to be seen in their purest form.

How to Replace the Lenses?

One can use a tool kit screwdriver to unscrew the tiny screws for getting the old lenses out of the frame. If the lens to be replaced is already dislodged from the frame, then this step can be skipped.

Be very careful while unscrewing the tiny screws. Any negligence can result in scratches on the side of the frame and also you might lose a screw. Replace the lenses with great care as well. Excessive force while adjusting the replacement lens in the frame can result in damage to the sunglasses.

For the average person, two years should be considered the safe benchmark for replacing the lenses as to ensure you are keeping your vision safe from UV rays. But if you tend to spend lots of time outside, if you go hiking, waterskiing or snowshoeing quite often, you might want to get replacement lenses more regularly.