As a sunglasses enthusiast, there’s nothing worse than finding scratches on your beloved frame or lenses. Fear not, as there are numerous methods to remedy this, minus the use of harsh chemicals that could interfere with UV protection. From household items to professional products, there's a solution for every scenario.
Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Impact of Scratched Sunglasses
When a pair of sunglasses becomes scratched, it is not just a cosmetic nuisance; it can seriously affect their performance. The scratches on your sunglasses can create visual disturbances, leading to eye strain. Especially with the ever-increasing reliance on digital screens, maintaining clear vision is paramount.
Lenses that are scratched compromise not just your style but the very purpose of your sunglasses. While minor marks might be ignorable, significant scratches can obstruct your vision and reduce the effectiveness of UV protection, leading to potential eye health issues.
Visual Clarity and Eye Strain
Scratches can scatter light entering the eyes, leading to glare and blurred vision. This disruption forces my eyes to work harder to focus, resulting in strain. Prolonged eye fatigue can lead to headaches and can be particularly troublesome when I'm driving or enjoying outdoor activities.
Aesthetic Deterioration and Resale Value
Aside from functionality, there's no denying the impact on aesthetics. Scratches diminish the sleek look of your sunglasses, reducing their appearance making them appear worn and poorly maintained. If your sunglasses have mirrored lenses, even the smallest of scratches are detectable by onlookers. If you view sunglasses as part of your daily ensemble, this deterioration is a significant concern.
Structural Integrity and Durability Concerns
Deep scratches may also indicate underlying damage to the sunglasses' structural integrity. What starts as a surface issue could develop into a full crack, rendering your sunglasses useless. This concern is particularly relevant for high-impact activities where durability is crucial.
X Proven Home Remedies for Scratch Removal
If you find scratches on your sunglasses, there are certain home remedies you can turn to before considering a replacement. For instance, cleaning the lenses effectively using basic items found around the house. These methods are not only cost-effective but also surprisingly efficient in minimizing the appearance of scratches.
From the gentle buffing action of toothpaste to the polishing properties of car wax, there's a variety of DIY solutions at our disposal. Each technique has its own merits, and the best part is the peace of mind that comes with using non-abrasive, lens-safe materials.
#1 Toothpaste
For minor scratches, a dab of toothpaste on a clean cloth can work wonders. Gently apply it to the scratches in a circular motion before wiping it off with a microfibre cloth. This method is simple yet effective, and can help reduce the prominence of gouges or scratches.
#2 Baking Soda Mixture
Similar to toothpaste, another effective method is a baking soda paste. Mix it with a bit of water, apply it to a microfibre cloth, and rub it on the damaged area of your sunglasses. It is crucial to clean the lenses beforehand to avoid further scratches. This natural remedy is gentle on the coatings and can fix scratched sunglasses efficiently.
#3 Car Wax
Car wax is another effective method for scratches to your frame. After ensuring the glasses are clean with a microfiber cloth, a small amount of wax can fill in and smooth out the surface imperfections.
#4 Brass Polish
Brass polish can aid in removing shallow scratches from the frames surface, especially if the sunglasses are made of metal or thick acetate. To avoid damage to the lenses. apply it gently with a soft cloth, taking care not to press too hard.
Specialty Scratch Removal Products For Acetate Sunglasses
To remove scratches from your acetate sunglasses, we recommend using plastic-specific polishing cloths and pastes made by Novus which you can buy here. Before you start, it’s crucial to protect your lenses using painter’s tape (masking tape) to prevent damaging your lenses.
- Sparingly apply the liquid from bottle no.3 (green) to the cloth provided. Avoiding your lenses, start polishing the worst of the scratches on your acetate frame. If you need to apply pressure, support your frame on a soft cloth upon a desk to prevent straining your frame’s hinges.
- Use a fresh cloth and bottle no.2 (red) to polish over the remaining scratches. This stage should start to become shiny and less scratched.
- For a high shine, use another fresh cloth and bottle no.1 (blue). This stage will take the longest but will bring your acetate back to a shiny surface finish.
Sunglasses repair services
The cost of glasses repair depends on the damage caused to your frame. There are various services online which offer a quotation based on your needs. See the list below for options.
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Do-It-Yourself vs Professional Repair Services
It’s recommended to weigh up the severity of the damage before choosing between DIY and professional repair. Minor scratches can often be tackled at home, while deep or numerous scratches might necessitate a professional's touch.
When to Opt for DIY Methods
If the scratches on your sunglasses are superficial, DIY methods can be a cost-effective solution. Always use gentle, circular motions and clean your glasses with a microfiber cloth to avoid adding more scratches.
Scenarios Where Professional Help Is Needed
When lenses are scratched deeply or if the scratches affect your vision, it is time to seek professional help. If your lenses are badly damaged, it may be time to have them replaced to ensure proper UV protection from the sun.
Preventative Measures to Keep Sunglasses Scratch-Free
To ensure your favourite pair of sunglasses remains scratch-free, adopt protective measures like routine cleaning and safe storage. This way, you're ready for summer fun without the worry of damaging your eyewear.
Routine Cleaning and Care Tips
Regularly clean your sunglasses with a gentle detergent such as dish soap to prevent stripping the coatings from your lenses. Avoid using harsh chemicals, and always use a soft, clean cloth for wiping.
Proper Storage Techniques
When not in use, store your sunglasses in a protective pouch or a hard case. This shields them from potential damage and helps maintain their condition, extending the life of your eyewear.
Quality Protective Accessories
Invest in quality accessories like microfiber cloths and protective cases to ensure cleaning your sunglasses doesn't lead to scratching the lenses. These accessories are essential for maintaining the longevity of your sunglasses.
Frequently Asked Questions Addressed
In this section, we'll tackle common concerns and provide guidance on maintaining your eyewear in top condition.
The Safe Use of Household Products on Lenses
While some household products can be safe for lens care, it's crucial to use them correctly. Always opt for mild detergents or cleaners that are gentle on glasses and sunglasses, and avoid any that contain abrasive substances.
Identifying Scratches Too Deep to Remove
Scratches that catch your fingernail as you glide over them are usually too deep to remove. In such cases, replacing the lens might be the only option to restore your vision and eyewear aesthetics.
How Cleaning Habits Affect Lens Longevity
Proper cleaning habits can greatly extend the life of your lenses. Gently rub away dirt and smudges using a clean microfiber cloth, and avoid using materials that could scratch or degrade the lens coating.
The Next Steps After Attempted Scratch Removal
After trying to remove scratches, assess the lens carefully. If the scratch is still visible or if the lens is damaged, it's wise to consider replacing the lens to ensure clear vision and comfort.
Assessing the Results and Considering Replacement
If your efforts to buff out the scratches are unsuccessful, and the scratch is still visible, it's time to think about getting a new pair or at least replacing the affected lenses, especially if they interfere with your vision.
Enhancements: Upgrading to Scratch-Resistant Coatings
For your next set of shades, you should consider upgrading to lenses with scratch-resistant coatings which will preserve the longevity and clarity of your lenses. Scratch-resistant coatings are especially beneficial if you require prescription sunglasses, as you’ll likely be more dependent on them.
Another upgrade you may want to consider is rear-surface anti-reflective coatings (AR). As per the name, this additional coating is only applied to the backside surfaces of your lenses to prevent light from being reflected backwards into your eyes. If you wear fashion style sunglasses (flat frame curvature), AR coatings prevent the annoying phenomenon of ‘bounce back’ as described in this blog post.
Wrapping It Up: Clear Views Ahead
In your journey to restore your sunglasses, you've explored various methods to buff away blemishes and regain that pristine look. It's essential, however, to remember that your ultimate goal is to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays with utmost clarity.
By carefully applying the techniques discussed, you not only enhance the visual appeal of your sunnies but also ensure they continue to shield our vision effectively. With scratches addressed and lenses polished, you’re hopefully set to enjoy unobstructed views and safeguard your eye health.