How To Put Contact Lenses In

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How To Put Contact Lenses In

Read our guide to learn how to properly insert contact lenses, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.

Switching from glasses to contact lenses can be a liberating experience, offering clear vision without the frames.

However, the process of putting contacts in can seem daunting at first.

But don’t worry! With a little practice and the right technique, you’ll master it in no time. Here’s a simple guide to help you insert your contact lenses safely and comfortably.

Why correct contact lens insertion matters

Wearing contact lenses comes with many perks, like freedom from glasses and better peripheral vision. But getting the hang of inserting them correctly is key for both comfort and eye health.

When your contact lenses are put in correctly, you should hardly notice them. Correct insertion isn’t just about feeling good — it’s also crucial for seeing clearly.

The lens needs to sit right to stay stable on your eye, giving you consistent and reliable vision correction all day long.

If the lens is inserted incorrectly, it can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and potential eye irritation or damage.

So, taking the time to insert your contact lenses properly is more than just a comfort thing; it’s essential for your eye health.

Now that you understand why proper insertion matters, let’s dive into how to do it right.

DID YOU KNOW?

The first concept of contact lenses was proposed by Leonardo da Vinci in 1508. He sketched out the idea of altering the corneal power by submerging the eye in a bowl of water.

How to put in contact lenses

Like any new skill, mastering the art of putting in contact lenses takes practice.

To help you navigate this learning curve, here are the five steps you should follow if you are a beginner or just in need of a refresher.

Step 1: Wash your hands

Before you put in your contact lenses, it’s essential to wash your hands thoroughly with fragrance-free soap to avoid introducing harmful bacteria that could cause eye infections.

Next, dry your hands completely with a lint-free towel.

Step 2: Clean your contact lenses

Proper cleaning of your contact lenses is vital to prevent eye infections and ensure clear vision.

Begin by placing the lens in the palm of your hand. Apply a few drops of contact lens solution, not tap water, to the lens.

Using your index finger, gently rub the lens in a circular motion for about 10-15 seconds on each side.

This process helps remove debris and protein buildup. After rubbing, rinse the lens thoroughly with fresh contact solution to remove any loosened particles.

Always use fresh solution; never reuse or top off old solution as this can harbor harmful bacteria.

If you wear soft contact lenses, ensure you are using a solution appropriate for soft lenses, and likewise for hard contact lenses. Repeat this cleaning process for your other contact lens.

Step 3: Check the lens orientation

Before inserting your contact lens, it is crucial to check its orientation to ensure it is not inside out. Place the lens on the tip of your index finger and hold it up to the light.

The lens should form a perfect bowl shape with the edges facing upward.

If the edges flare out or appear flat, the lens is inside out.

Another method to check the orientation is to gently squeeze the lens between your thumb and index finger; if the edges turn outward, it’s inside out.

Ensuring the correct orientation of your contact lens is important for comfort and proper vision.

If you have difficulty determining the correct side, consult your eye doctor or refer to the instructions provided with your lenses.

Step 4: Gently place the lens on your eye

For beginners, it’s more comfortable to do this step in front of a mirror.

Start by using your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid open.

With your dominant hand, use your middle finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid. Look straight ahead or slightly upward, and place the lens carefully on your eye.

It helps to focus on a point straight ahead rather than looking directly at the lens. Gently place the contact lens on the center of your eye, ensuring it adheres properly.

Once the lens is on your eye, slowly release your eyelids and blink a few times to help the lens settle into place.

If you feel any discomfort or if the lens does not seem to sit correctly, remove it, rinse with contact solution, and try again.

Step 5: Verify the lens position

After placing the contact lens on your eye, it’s important to verify that it is correctly positioned.

Look in a mirror and check that the lens is centered on your eye and not off to the side.

Blink a few times to help the lens settle and ensure it moves smoothly with your eye.

If the lens feels uncomfortable or your vision is blurry, it might be misaligned.

In this case, gently move the lens by closing your eye and massaging your eyelid, or remove it and try re-inserting it.

Proper lens positioning is crucial for comfort, clear vision, and preventing irritation or eye health issues.

When to remove contact lenses

It is essential to remove your contact lenses before going to bed, unless you are using extended-wear lenses prescribed by your eye doctor for overnight use.

This practice allows your eyes to rest and helps reduce the risk of infections and irritation.

Additionally, if you experience any discomfort, pain, or a foreign body sensation in your eye, you should remove your lenses immediately, as these symptoms could indicate a problem with the lens or the onset of an eye infection.

Similarly, if your eyes become red, irritated, or excessively teary, it is important to take out your lenses, as these signs could be indicative of dry eyes, allergies, or an eye infection.

In cases where your vision becomes blurry or you see halos or flashes of light, remove your lenses promptly, as blurry vision can signify that the lens is dirty, damaged, or misaligned, or it might be a sign of a more serious eye condition.

Lastly, always remove your lenses before swimming or showering to avoid exposure to water that can harbor harmful microorganisms, which can lead to eye infections.

If you do wear lenses in water, ensure you remove them immediately afterwards to maintain eye health.

Tips for those new to wearing contacts

No one starts out knowing how to put in contact lenses perfectly. It takes a bit of training, a bit of persistence, and a healthy respect for proper eye hygiene.

But the convenience of wearing soft disposable contacts is a great reward, and anyone can learn to do it.

To make the process smoother, start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of lens care and handling, including how to properly use and maintain your contact lens case.

Be patient with yourself and practice regularly, as consistent practice will help you become more comfortable and confident.

It’s also very important to get fitted for contact lenses when buying them, as it isn’t a case of one-size fits all.

If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to seek advice from one of our certified opticians via the link at the top of the page.

How to Buy Contact Lenses Online

Buying contact lenses online can be overwhelming, but our expert guide will help you navigate the process with ease.

How to Buy Contact Lenses Online

Buying contact lenses online can be overwhelming, but our expert guide will help you navigate the process with ease.

How To: Clean Your Contact Lenses

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How To: Clean Your Contact Lenses

Importance of maintaining good hand hygiene | Cleaning contact lenses with a hydrogen peroxide contact lens solution | Do’s and Don’ts when cleaning your contact lenses

Improper cleaning of contact lenses can cause irritation, vision problems and even infection. Find out how to clean your contact lenses and keep your eyes healthy.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic is only one reason why contact wearers should always remember to properly clean and disinfect their contact lenses. Keeping your contacts clean is vital to prevent bacterias and reduce the chance of other harmful substances such as the coronavirus from entering your system.

Dirty contact lenses can also cause various sight problems, such as blurry vision. Because wearing contacts requires direct contact between your hands and eyes, it is essential to maintain good hand hygiene, as well. Read on to learn about the proper way to clean your contacts.

Importance of maintaining good hand hygiene

Harmful substances such as the coronavirus enter the system through the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Inserting contact lenses requires that your hands come into close proximity with your eyes, and that’s why you should always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or your contact lenses. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses.

DID YOU KNOW?

Wearing contact lenses for more than their intended use can lead to infections and vision problems.

Cleaning contact lenses with a hydrogen peroxide contact lens solution

Some prefer to use a hydrogen peroxide contact lens solution to clean their contacts. An upside to hydrogen peroxide contact lens solutions is that they offer complete disinfecting of lenses which can help fight off bacterias and the coronavirus.

However, this type of contact lens cleaner often requires that you rinse your lenses with a multipurpose solution before using. After you’ve rinsed the lenses with the multipurpose solution, insert the contact lenses into the provided cylinder case and then fill the case with the hydrogen peroxide solution.

The lens solution will bubble and fizz, a sign the disinfection process is taking place. Wait the directed time before removing lenses from the solution and re-wearing (typically around 6 hours).

Dos and Don’ts when cleaning your contact lenses

DON’T re-use old solutions

You should never re-use your contact lens cleaner for more than one session. The wet environment is the perfect place for bacteria to grow and multiply which can cause eye infections. Instead, replace the used lens solution each time you go to clean your lenses.

DON’T use contacts for longer than the recommended use

Whether you wear daily, weekly, or monthly lenses, you should never wear the same lenses for longer than the recommended use. This can cause serious eye infections and poor vision. Instead, replace the lenses when recommended.

DON’T expose soft contact lenses to water

Most waters are not germ free and your contact lenses could serve as a catalyst between your immune system and the bacteria in the water. Water can also distort the lens shape and cause the lens to stick to your eyes. Take out your lenses before showering or swimming to avoid infections and ensure optimal vision.

DO replace the lens container every three months

It does no good to keep your lenses clean if you then put them in a dirty lens container. Keeping a clean contact lens case is a good practice to get in the habit of to avoid eye infections.

DO clean contact lens case every two weeks

You should wash your lens container with a gentle soap and water and rinse to keep your case clear of bacteria.

DO dry out your lens case

When you clean your contact lens case or your lenses, always be sure to properly dry out the container before reusing. Wet places are a great place for bacteria to grow and multiply.

Shop SmartBuyGlasses’ wide collection of contact lenses today, or read everything you need to know about contact lenses here.

When were glasses invented?

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When Were Glasses Invented?

When were the first glasses invented – the early stages | Who invented eyeglasses, and how were glasses made? | When did eyeglasses become common? | What if glasses were never invented?

We probably take glasses for granted nowadays as they're so readily available, but that wasn'r alwaysthe case. Read up on the history of this life changing invention.

Have you ever wondered when were glasses invented and who had the genius idea of creating them? This article is about the history of glasses, who invented them, and how they slowly developed into what they are now.

When were the first glasses invented – the early stages

Optical devices were in use back in 1000 A.D. In Ancient Rome, Seneca is believed to have read “all the books of Rome” using a glass globe of water as a magnifier, while monks in the Middle Ages were said to use glass spheres as magnifying glasses to read.

Sources are unclear on when glasses were developed and by whom; some credit the invention to Salvino D’Armate; his epitaph in the Santa Maria Maggiore church in Florence referred to him as the “inventor of spectacles.”

Others, on the other hand, credit the invention to Friar Alessandro Della Spina of Pisa. While it seems evident that glasses were invented somewhere in Italy, it’s hard to name the exact inventor.

The first-ever glass frames were created in Venice. The city is well-known for welcoming the most talented glass blowers. Frames were made of bone, leather, or metal, and these glasses were used to magnify words and help during reading.

The first evidence for eyeglasses is Tommaso da Modena’s 1352 portrait of cardinal Hugh de Provence reading in a scriptorium. While it would have been impossible for the cardinal to use eyeglasses (he lived way before glasses were invented), the painting proves that in the mid 13hudreds, glasses were already ordinary and used by cardinals.

Who invented eyeglasses, and how were glasses made?

The invention of printing and the distribution of more and more books led to a higher demand for prescription glasses: people needed better vision and help to read. The most significant developments around glasses started happening during the 17th century. Most importantly, glasses slowly transitioned from just magnifying words to correcting vision.

Here are the most significant steps in the development of glasses:

In the 1600s: concave lenses are invented to improve distance vision.

1727: temples finally make their appearance thanks to optician Edward Scarlett, making glasses more structured and stable on the face

1784: Benjamin Franklin invents the bifocals dividing lenses into two zones: one for distance vision, one for near vision

1827: Thomas Young discovers astigmatism and later invents cylindrical lenses that are now used to correct it

1959: Bernard Maitenaz invents progressive lenses, giving up on the line that used to divide bifocal lenses

1950-60: hard plastic contact lenses are being used and become more common

During the 19th & 20th centuries, the development of eyewear continues, and glasses are constantly redesigned with thinner lenses and different frame designs.

Glasses today are made with lightweight materials, such as plastic or metal, to ensure comfort and durability; this was not the case many years ago, as lenses were made with heavy glass, and frames were made of leather or bone.

DID YOU KNOW?

Many of the earliest known uses of corrective lenses were in Italy.

When did eyeglasses become common?

At the beginning of the 19th century, glasses were still handcrafted and not accessible to everyone. Not only were they scarcely produced, but because of their handmade nature, they were costly and only available to wealthy families.

However, the industrial revolution was just around the corner, making it much simpler for working men and women to get the necessary eye correction. Thanks to the mass manufacture of both frames and lenses, these became more available, giving more people a chance to have better vision and good eye health.

Today, with increasing screen exposure, taking care of your eyes and having good vision is crucial! When buying glasses, options are infinite, and choosing the best one can feel overwhelming.

You can either visit stores in your area or head online to websites like SmartBuyGlasses, where you can filter through different price ranges, brands, colors, and materials. The best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to have a good pair of eyewear to help you see better!

At SmartBuyGlasses, we believe everyone should benefit from good vision; this is why you can choose between many affordable options and get prescription glasses delivered to your door within days.

What if glasses were never invented?

Considering up to 75% of the adult population needs vision correction, most would not be seeing correctly if glasses were never invented. Glasses not being invented would mean most of the world’s population would be suffering from everything that comes with needing proper eye care. This could also result in dangerous situations as good vision is extremely important for daily activities like driving or crucial jobs like operating surgery.

As much as we would love to believe that eyewear is now accessible to everyone worldwide and is not a privilege, that is still not the case.

SmartBuyGlasses’ mission is to help people see and be healthy regardless of their budget; this is why we joined forces with other exclusive brands that share this vision. One of those is Arise Collective, a global eyewear brand featuring sustainably made frames and has a partnership with 1% for the Planet to support global environmental and social causes.

Considering all the progress made in the last 800 years since glasses were invented, we hope to make even more progress and make eyecare accessible to everyone worldwide.

How Much Do Glasses Cost?

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How Much Do Glasses Cost?

How much do prescription glasses cost?

Before diving in and buying a new pair of glasses, check out the affordable options that are out there.

The glasses market is very broad. There’s a big mix of different kinds of glasses out there for sale, all for different purposes and price points. There are affordable brands, sustainable brands, luxury brands, sports brands and many more.

How much do prescription glasses cost?

At SmartBuyGlasses, you can pick up glasses from as little as $7 and as much as $1,500. Generally, glasses are sold at the $50-$150 price point; after all, there is some engineering that goes into making them. This is lower than the US average of $196 – in other words, there’s no better place for a great deal than SmartBuyGlasses.

Best cheap glasses

The SmartBuy Collection Taegan glasses are an easy, affordable option for anyone looking for some high quality full-rim transparent glasses.
We’re big fans of the SmartBuy Collection Laurie frames – they blend transparent modern design with vintage framework to great effect.
The SmartBuy Collection Cam glasses are a really affordable, chic way to get your hands on some cat-eye frames. They have some really cool bodywork too; the Havana-effect frames are sure to get people talking.

DID YOU KNOW?

The final cost of your glasses will depend on the brand, frame style and the various features of the lenses.

Our favorite luxury glasses

The Tom Ford FT5379 glasses are a really stylish fashion option for any eyewear enthusiast, mixing up different colors in a funky frame design that will stand out in any setting. Oh, and it’s got that Tom Ford ‘T’ branding too…
These Persol PO9714VM Folding glasses bring the luxury style and technical sophistication of Persol sunglasses to the eyeglasses conversation.
Our top selling designer glasses, these Gucci GG0026O glasses are a very stylish cat-eye model that are specially built to attract attention. They’re really smart, with high-quality plastic frames that highlight the high quality lenses.

How to Choose Glasses

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How to Choose Glasses

Deciding on a pair of glasses is harder than it seems, so we've put together some tips to help you make the best choice.

Shopping for new eyeglasses frames can be an overwhelming process; after all, it’s a defining accessory that’s part of your everyday wear.

If you’re looking to buy some glasses but just can’t seem to make your mind up, this guide is for you. We’ll be explaining what to consider when exploring the different frame styles and how to find the ones that will best suit your face and needs.

How to choose glasses based on face shape

Getting the right frames for your face shape is the most important part of buying glasses online. If you’re struggling with choosing glasses, this face shape guide will help clear things up and get you started.

Additionally, when choosing frames make sure to pick a color that compliments your skin tone. For example, blue frames work well with a cool complexion, while red frames go great with warmer tones.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are four basic face shapes: square, round, oval and heart-shaped. You’ll need to figure out which one you have in order to find some glasses that complement your features.

Glasses for square faces

Those with square faces have a well-defined face with angular features, such as a wide forehead and a strong jawline, chin and cheekbones. The most prominent feature is often the jawline.

Round glasses or thinner frames are great for contrasting strong features, making them well-suited for those with square face shapes. The curves of these frames help soften the facial features and complement the wearer’s natural look.

Aviators or pilot frames are also a good option for those looking for an alternative.

Frames for my square face shape

Oval: Oval frames are the perfect accessory for any occasion. These frames balance out sharp angles and give off a naturally stylish look, with minimal effort required. Take it easy, and let these glasses do all the work for you.

Round: No matter how big or small your round frames are, they look exactly how you’d imagine they would – chilled and centered.

Pilot: Aviator glasses will always be on-trend. They look best when worn during warmer months and add a touch of cool to any outfit.

Glasses for round faces

The typical facial features of a round face are wide foreheads, full cheeks and rounded chins. The face is generally nearly equal in length and width, so we recommend glasses shapes with strong details and angles to contrast the soft features.

By adding some contrast, a round face will look thinner and longer. This is why we recommend rectangular, butterfly and wayfarer frames.

Frames for my round face shape

Wayfarer: These frames are iconic, instantly recognizable and extremely popular. It’s no exaggeration to say that these are a must-have pair for both men and women.

Butterfly. These are glasses for those who are bolder and like to experiment with styles. The combinations of round and geometric shapes, designs and silhouettes, make this frame shape unique and fashionable.

Rectangle. These are the perfect frames for the quintessential gentleman or businesswoman. If you’re looking to revamp your look, these are a great option.

Glasses for oval faces

Oval face shapes have balanced features and high cheekbones, with a slightly narrower chin than the forehead. A lot of people consider this to be the ideal face shape as it has the most balanced proportions.

People with oval-shaped faces are quite lucky as pretty much any pair of glasses will suit them. However, oversized glasses can detract from the natural balance of these features, so it’s best to stick to narrower frames.

Frames for my oval face shape

Cat-eye: Cat-eye frames are a great option for those who appreciate old-school glamour. If you love wearing your vintage coats and have a flair for drama, these glasses can enhance your classy vibe.

Round: No matter how big or small your round frames are, they will look cool and centered. If you want your vibe to be calm and collected, this is a great pick for you.

Wayfarer: Wayfarers go just as well with oval face shapes as they do with round faces. If you’re looking for something iconic and recognizable, these are the way to go.

Glasses for heart-shaped faces

A heart-shaped face typically has a broad forehead, a narrow jaw, high cheekbones and a well-defined chin. This face shape resembles a stylised heart as it is widest at the top with narrow angles at the bottom.

When choosing glasses for heart-shaped faces, it’s good to create the illusion of a smaller forehead and a broader chin.

This can be achieved by choosing glasses that are wider than the forehead, such as Pilot/Aviator, wraparound, wayfarer, or even geometric frames.

Frames for my heart-shaped face shape

Pilot: Aviator glasses will always be on-trend. They look best when worn during the summer months and add a touch of cool to any outfit.

Wraparound: Generally known for their sporty and practical look, wraparounds are the perfect glasses to wear when you want your adventurous side to shine. Head off to distant shores or hike up a mountain in these sporty, protective glasses.

Wayfarer: Wayfarers are very versatile frames that go well with many face shapes, heart-shaped faces included. With these, you can rock an iconic look that compliments most outfits.

How to choose glasses based on your way of living

Your eye needs and daily routine are key when determining the perfect pair of glasses.

Whether you need them all day long or for specific activities such as work, reading, and time outdoors, your frames should complement your lifestyle–not complicate it.

Consider your eye needs

Frames for higher prescriptions

If you have a strong prescription your lenses will be thicker, both in the case of nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). To ensure both comfort and aesthetics, opt for frames that can accommodate these lenses without looking bulky.

Full-rimmed frames, especially those made from acetate or thicker plastic materials, are a great choice as they provide better support while concealing the lens edges.

Alternatively, high-index lenses can reduce lens thickness, allowing for more flexibility in frame selection while maintaining a sleek look.

Frames for lower prescriptions

If your prescription is low, you have more freedom in choosing frames. Delicate metal and rimless frames can be a lightweight option for these thinner lenses.

Since lens thickness isn’t a major concern, you can prioritize aesthetics, comfort, and personal style without worrying about distortion or excessive weight.

Consider your lifestyle

Frames for active lifestyles

Whether you play sports or are always on the go, you’ll need frames that can keep up with your active lifestyle.

Consider sturdier frame materials that can withstand impact and resist bending. Wraparounds are a classic, and sports frames built for your activity of preference can offer additional benefits.

Here, lens coatings and add-ons can be an excellent investment.

Anti-scratch coatings help prevent damage from frequent handling, while photochromic lenses adjust to different lighting conditions, eliminating the need to switch between prescription and sunglasses when moving from indoors to outdoors.

Polarization can also be crucial, especially when spending time under bright natural light near reflective surfaces, such as water and snow.

Frames for readers

If you primarily wear glasses for reading, comfort and quality should be your top priorities.

Progressive lenses are a fantastic option for those who need both near and distance vision correction, as they eliminate the need to switch between reading and regular glasses.

For those who only need close-up vision correction, single-vision reading glasses provide a simple yet effective solution.

Alternatively, ready readers are an excellent option for those who don’t need much vision correction at all. These are pre-magnified glasses with equal magnification power in both lenses to provide a more comfortable reading experience.

When choosing your frames, opt for lightweight materials such as acetate or thin metal, which ensure comfort during long reading sessions. A wider lens area can also help reduce the need to constantly adjust your head position while reading.

Frames for digital users

If you spend long hours in front of a screen, you should know that blue light exposure can cause eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns. Luckily, blue light-blocking glasses can help filter out this light and reduce these effects.

These glasses come in both prescription and non-prescription options, making them suitable for anyone who works at a computer, uses a smartphone frequently, or enjoys gaming.

In addition, occupational lenses–also known as computer progressives–can be a great addition to your routine if you spend a good part of your day in front of the computer.

Designed to correct vision at near and intermediate distance, they are great for people who are constantly switching between close-up and intermediate vision tasks, but don’t need distance correction.

These can help reduce eye strain. They also help eliminate the neck pain that can result from tilting your head upwards for extended periods of time to view a screen at intermediate distance with regular progressives.

When choosing frames for digital use, opt for a lightweight and comfortable fit, especially if they will be worn for extended periods. Large, rectangular frames offer a wider field of vision, making them a great option.

Coatings are also important for digital users: don’t forget to get an anti-reflective coating to reduce screen glare, and a blue light blocking coating for optimal protection.

What to keep in mind when choosing glasses

When choosing your next pair of glasses, prioritize comfort, proper fit, and functionality. They should be the right glasses for your face shape, in a color that compliments your skin tone.

Make sure they feel good on your face, don’t pinch your nose or temples, and stay in place while you go about your day.

A well-fitting frame goes a long way in improving your quality of life and ensures your lenses align correctly with your eyes, providing optimal vision correction.

Functionality is also crucial.

Consider your daily activities and vision needs–whether you need sturdy frames for an active lifestyle, lightweight options for long reading sessions, or blue light-blocking lenses for heavy screen-use. The right pair of glasses will improve your routine, not hinder it.

Ultimately, striking a balance between comfort, durability, and aesthetics will ensure you get a pair that looks great and feels even better.

And if you need any extra help figuring out what frames are right for you, feel free to reach out to our opticians. They’re here to help you understand the best match for your lifestyle and vision needs.

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What Food Can I Eat to Protect My Eyes?

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What Food Can I Eat to Protect My Eyes?

Vitamin A | Vitamin C and Bioflavinoids | Vitamin E and Selenium | Lutein and Zeaxanthin | Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Zinc

Carrotts are famously good for our eyes thank to the vitamin A they contain, but other foods have their benefits too.

Just like all our other organs, the good health of our eyes depends on having the right vitamins and minerals in our diet. But do you really need a specially tailored “vision supplement”?

Probably not, unless your diet is severely lacking in the vitamins and minerals below. Continue reading to find out what foods contain the nutrition your eyes need!

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is especially important for our vision, and reduces the risk of night blindness, hence the old adage that carrots (which are packed with vitamin A) help you see in the dark.

While that may not be exactly true, a lack of vitamin A in your diet could certainly contribute to the degeneration of your vision over time. Aside from carrots, other great sources of vitamin A are pumpkin, sweet potato, kale and cod liver oil.

Vitamin C and Bioflavinoids

Vitamin C is important for several reasons: it helps maintain the collagen in your cornea, the capillaries in your retina, and reduces the risk of cataracts. Vitamin C also has a complementary effect when taken together with bioflavonoids, which occur naturally in almost all the same foods as vitamin C (as opposed to vitamin C supplements).

Red or green sweet peppers, broccoli, oranges, kiwis and most berries all contain lots of both.

DID YOU KNOW?

Spinach is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat in terms of eye health.

Vitamin E and Selenium

Vitamin E helps reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, while selenium helps your body to absorb it. It’s important not to take too much vitamin E, because in high doses it can thin the blood and prevent it from clotting.

The best sources for vitamin E and selenium are nuts (particularly brazil nuts), but also seafood, whole grain cereals, sunflower seeds and spinach.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Lutein and zeaxanthin are yellow pigments which are found in high concentrations in the macula of the human eye. Damage to the macula can cause loss in central vision, as opposed to peripheral.

This is one the most common ways in which blindness can develop in old age, and so a a diet with sufficient lutein and zeaxanthin can maintain the health of your vision. They are found in green vegetables, particularly kale, spinach, collard and turnip greens.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The clue is in the name: Essential Fatty Acids like Omega-3 are vital to our health, and because our body can’t produce them itself, we have to get them from the food we eat.

Omega-3 is believed to be particularly important in the development of vision in infants, but they also help drain intraocular fluid from our eyes, reducing the danger of high eye pressure and glaucoma.

They also reduce the chances of getting dry eyes. The best source of Omega-3 fatty acids is fish, particularly salmon, mackerel and sardines, though you can also get them from seeds like chia and flax.

Zinc

Zinc is the second most abundant metal in our bodies after iron, and it interacts with all classes of enzymes to reduce the number of free radicals. By helping the body absorb vitamin A, it can help with our eye health too.

Zinc is relatively easy to get in your diet, being found in seafood, beef, eggs, tofu, beans, nuts and whole grain cereals. It’s also a fundamental component of our immune systems, but having too much zinc can cause problems too, so a supplement is not normally necessary.

Everything That You Need to Know About Computer Vision Syndrome and Children Eye Health

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Everything That You Need to Know About Computer Vision Syndrome And Children's Eye Health

What is Computer vision syndrome | The link between extended digital screen time and computer vision syndrome | Ways to prevent computer vision syndrome

With children spending more time than ever looking at screens, the risk of developing computer vision is increased. Find out more about the condition and how to prevent it.

Computer Vision Syndrome (or CVS) is a condition that is used to describe a whole range of eye strain related conditions. Symptoms of CVS range from headaches and back pain, right through to blurred vision and severe eye strain.

It is reported in both adults and children, and is linked to heavy computer and digital screen usage. As the use of digital media becomes more pervasive within society, reports of CVS are rising.

For children especially, CVS can be a major concern as many of the symptoms are linked to over-exposure of blue light. Blue light is emitted naturally from the sun, and in small doses carries minimal optical risk. However, it is also emitted from all digital screens, and prolonged exposure can be damaging to young eyes.

A report released in 2017 by Common Sense Media indicated that children between 0 and 8 years old are spending, on average, 2 hours and 19 minutes a day on digital screen media. This is over double the one hour recommended by the American Academy of Pediatricians for 2 to 5 year olds.

As young eyes are more susceptible to developing CVS, it is important to limit screen time in order to mitigate the risks of developing symptoms.

The link between extended digital screen time and computer vision syndrome

According to a study run by the National Eye Institute and published in the December 2009 issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, it was found that the prevalence of nearsightedness among Americans has increased from 25% to 41.6% over the past 30 years; and this problem is not about to be fixed anytime soon.

It has been stated that by 2050 half of the US population will be nearsighted. This indicates that prolonged exposure to screens from an early age increases the risk to young eyes for myopia and eye strain.

This development is not only due to protracted exposure to blue light, but also to the changing social behavioral norms that are increasingly favoring inside activities over outside pursuits.

Indeed, the less natural light your eye is exposed to, the less dopamine that is released. Dopamine has been shown to decreases the chances of developing nearsightedness, and can limit the chances of you passing on the disease to the next generation.

DID YOU KNOW?

The best way to prevent children from developing CVS is to limit their screen time.

Ways to prevent computer vision syndrome

In order to prevent eye strain and the risk of myopia for children, consider the following advice:

Control the luminosity of the screen. Blue light is harmful for the eyes so make sure to control it by using an app, wearing computer lenses, or adding photochromic lenses if they already have prescription glasses.
Control luminosity in the room. While playing video games or working on the computer always take advantage of the natural light in the room during the day, or turn on the light in order to reduce eye strain (or in the long term, myopia).
Limit screen time. The screen time for children (between the ages of 2-5) should not be more than 2 hours a day, with regular short breaks during that time, to prevent CVS developing.
Limit the time spent in front of the screen and apply the 20-20 rule: Give the eyes a break every twenty minutes for 20 seconds in order to give the eyes a moment to completely relax.
Make sure that the chair the child is using is the right size so their feet can touch the ground. Pay attention on the distance between their eyes and the screen, which should be 40 to 76 centimeters.
Schedule an eye exam at least once a year.

Should you have any questions related to other eye health related subjects, ask our opticians!

Dry Eyes – Causes and Treatments

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Dry Eyes - Causes And Treatments

Dry eye symptoms | Causes of dry eyes | dry eye treatment |

There are many possible causes of dry eyes. Find out what may be problem in your case and what you can do to treat it.

Did you know that about 40% of adults suffer from varying degrees of dry eye conditions? Did you know that women are more likely to experience dry eye symptoms? Did you know that dry eyes are uncomfortable but totallypreventable?

In today’s world, we are living in environments that demand our use of technological devices for long periods of time, subject us to polluted air and tend to keep us awake hours into the night. Unfortunately, all of these habits are harmful to our eyes and can result in irritating dry eye conditions.

Eye strain, air pollutants and not getting enough sleep can lead to what doctors refer to as “dry eye syndrome”, which is defined as a lack of tears or poor quality of tears, which can in turn lead to a variety of uncomfortable eye symptoms.

Dry eye symptoms

Some of the most common dry eye symptoms are as follows:

Scratchy sensation
Contact lens discomfort
Excessive tearing
Burning
Tired eyes
Sensitivity to light

If you believe you are suffering from a degree of symptoms, you should consider a few of the following causes of dry eyes. Some dry eye symptoms can be easily treated with small alterations to daily habits, such as a change of diet or increase in water intake.

However, some causes may be more serious and you should consider seeing your ophthalmologist for a professional diagnosis.

Causes of dry eyes

Age (50+) – As a natural part of the aging process, at a certain age your eyelids will slow their tear production to help lubricate the eyes. Adults aged fifty and over tend to experience dry eyes more often.

Allergies – Is it that time of the year again? Seasonal allergies may be the cause of your dry eyes. Try out some allergy medications to ease your symptoms and always keep some eye drops handy.

Blepharitis – If your conditions are a bit more serious and you think they may be the result of an infection, you may want to talk to your doctor about the lid disease, Blepharitis. It is the most common cause of dry eyes and is a dysfunction of the eyelid’s oil glands which results in eyelid inflammation and discomfort.

City Dwellers – People living in cities are more likely to develop dry eye symptoms because of the denser quantities of air pollutants in the air.

Contact Lenses – Contacts are perfectly healthy for the eyes, but if you are careless with your contacts and tend to wear dirty lenses, are wearing incorrectly prescribed contacts or are wearing them longer than they were intended for, they could be the cause of your dry eyes. Sleeping in contacts that are not suitable for overnight use can cause eye discomfort and sometimes infections.

Daily habits and work environment – If you are working long hours or looking at computers for long periods of time, you are straining your eyes a great deal. Extra strain = no natural tear gain!

Excessive heat or A/C – Air that is being pumped into your eyes is a natural cause of dry eyes. Be aware of your surroundings and adjust accordingly.

Eye makeup – For women this is a very common cause for eye discomfort. Try to reduce the amount you are wearing, or at least wear eye makeup that is liquid-based, not powder-based, so it won’t fall into your eyes and cause irritation.

Medications – Certain medications can cause uncomfortable dry eye symptoms. If this is the case, you should talk with your doctor about other options available.

Menstrual Cycle, Menopause & Pregnancy – If you are experiencing any of these body changes, you should be aware that a woman’s hormonal changes can lead to dry eye symptoms. If you are using contraceptives, this may also be a cause of eye irritation.

Poor blink rate or incomplete blinking – If you know you are a poor blinker, then your eyes are really hurting for it. This may take some practice but try to blink more regularly, especially if you are working long hours using computers or reading documents. Blinking keeps the eyes properly lubricated and will help with any dry eye symptoms.

Smoking – People who smoke are twice as likely to develop dry eye symptoms. Tobacco smoke is a serious eye irritant, so breaking this habit could significantly help with your dry eyes, along with other health benefits.

Dry eyes are awful and the causes are many, but don’t worry! There are many ways to help cope with these nasty symptoms.

DID YOU KNOW?

Eye strain, air pollutants and not getting enough sleep can lead to what doctors refer to as “dry eye syndrome”

Dry eye treatment

Take periodic breaks from your computer and technology use
Use a humidifier at work and at home
Wear glasses on windy days to protect your eyes
Wear polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV radiation
Optimize your contact lens wearing habits
Eat a well-balanced diet of omega 3’s and a lot of Vitamin-A rich foods
Increase daily water intake and reduce coffee drinking
Quit smoking and avoid being around it
Practice blinking more often
Lubricated eye drops
Medicated eye drops

Note: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms (or multiple ones) that you consider to be serious, you should consult an eye care expert immediately. If you prolong diagnosis, dry eye syndrome can lead to infection or even permanent corneal scarring.

How to Buy Glasses Online

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How to Buy Glasses Online

Buying glasses online shouldn’t be daunting, in just a few easy steps you can find the perfect pair that suit you and your vision needs.

SUMMARY

To buy glasses online, you need to:

1. Have a valid prescription

2. Know your pupillary distance (PD)

3. Select the correct frame width

We buy many things online, from groceries to clothes, and while these things seem “normal,” some products are considered a bit more complex. Purchasing eyewear online may seem exciting, but with questions like frame fit and prescription accuracy, it can be daunting to some.

At SmartBuyGlasses we guarantee that with a few easy steps and access to our online opticians, buying prescription glasses online is simple and easy. Our customer service team is also available to help you along the way.

What do I need to buy glasses online?

When purchasing prescription eyeglasses from online glasses retailers, you will usually need three things:

Your up-to-date eye prescription
Your pupillary distance
Your vision insurance information (if you have coverage)

An updated eye prescription is necessary for purchasing prescription glasses. It’s important to always schedule your yearly eye exam with your eye doctor to identify vision problems, write your prescription, and address your eye care needs.

You don’t need a prescription if you’re purchasing blue light glasses, sunglasses, or other non-prescription eyewear. However, even if you don’t require prescription eyewear, having an eye exam at least every two years is still important to maintain eye health.

Can I order glasses online without a prescription?

If you require prescription lenses, you will need an up-to-date eye prescription during the ordering process. Your glasses prescription is essential to ensure you get the proper vision correction. If you’ve misplaced your prescription, you can use our Lens Scanner app to retrieve your prescription information from your current pair of single vision lenses.

Advantages of buying glasses online

There are many advantages to buying glasses online, convenience being one of the biggest. From the comfort of your home, you can shop for new eyewear on your own time. Shopping at your leisure removes the pressure many people face in-store.

Shopping online for glasses also gives you access to a more extensive selection of frames, making it easier to find a new pair. Online you can browse various brands, styles, and colors. Prices online tend to be more affordable, and with the opportunity to compare prices, you are guaranteed to find the perfect pair at the best price.

Ordering prescription glasses online

Buying a pair of glasses shouldn’t cause any stress or for you to pay too much money. If it’s your first time purchasing eyeglasses online, follow these simple steps.

1. See an eye doctor to get an updated prescription

As mentioned, seeing an Optometrist for an eye exam and receiving an updated prescription is the first step in buying glasses online and ensuring clear vision. At SmartBuyGlasses, you have the option to upload, manually enter, or send in your prescription after the check-out process.

2. Choose your frame width

Purchasing glasses that fit properly is essential. Glasses should fit your face correctly in order to provide the best correction. Our ‘medium’ frame width works well for most people, but we carry glasses with frame measurements from 38mm-69mm. We also offer a low bridge fit, ideal for those with higher cheekbones and a flatter nose bridge.

Your pupillary distance (PD) and frame measurement from your current glasses can help determine the best size for you. PD reveals how far your pupils are from one another and is helpful in centering your frames on your face.

Check the inside arm of your current glasses frame for the lens width, nose bridge size, and temple arm length. Whether you’re happy with the fit of your existing frames or want to change something, these numbers can aid you in the selection process.

DID YOU KNOW?

Buying glasses online is not only easy and convenient but can also be fun. With virtual try-on technology, you can now see how glasses will look on you before purchasing.

How can I get my pupillary distance?

Your PD will usually be measured as part of an eye exam and then written on your prescription. If you misplace your prescription, there are two simple ways to get your PD; use our Pupillary Distance app to retrieve the details or measure it yourself.

The Pupillary Distance app enables you to get your PD quickly and easily with only your phone or computer, and a card with a magnetic strip. If you don’t have access to the tools required to use our app, you can easily measure your PD yourself. All you need is a ruler and a mirror. To measure your PD at home:

Stand in front of a mirror and hold a ruler to the bridge of your nose or against the line of your eyebrows.
Close your right eye and align the ruler’s zero with your left pupil.
Keep the ruler still, then close your left eye and open your right eye.
The number aligned with your right pupil’s center is your PD measurement.

3. Find frames that suit your face shape

While you can wear any glasses frames you want, certain frame styles suit particular face shapes. If you’re unsure of your face shape, follow these easy steps.

Look in the mirror and outline your reflection on the mirror with a bar of soap or lipstick.
Consider the shape you’ve just drawn; compare and match it to a standard face shape below.

After you’ve understood your face shape, it’s time to choose a complimenting frame.

How do I know what style of glasses to get?

If you have an oval face, you can wear almost any style, including oversized glasses, rectangular, square, round, or cat-eyed frames. For those with a square face, you should opt for oval or round glasses to soften your features. You can use rectangular, square, or cat-eye glasses to add sharp angles and definition if you have a round face shape.

People with heart-shaped faces tend to have wider foreheads and a narrow chin. This shape works well with various styles, including rectangle, oval, and cat-eye. The least common face shape is diamond; a geometric, rectangular, or oval frame would work well for this shape.

4. Find a frame that suits your style

Of course, it’s important to understand what frames may look best on you, but it’s also important to consider your style and what may make you feel the best. Everyone has a certain sense of style, whether subtle or bold, neutral or bright, or anything in between; finding eyewear to match your aesthetic is essential.

Consider the type of glasses frames you want. Do you prefer rimless or full-rim frames? Be sure to consider the frame material as well. Metal or titanium frames are minimalistic and sleek. Plastic frames are generally lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear.

Don’t forget about color. These days, frames are available in all color blocks, gradients, and patterns. Think about how and where you’ll wear your glasses or sunglasses, then select the frames that best fit your lifestyle and complete your wardrobe.

5. Choose your lenses and coatings

Now that you’ve chosen frames, it’s time to select your lenses. With a wide range of lenses available, it may be hard to know which to select. Most frames can be fitted with prescription lenses, including single vision and progressive, and coatings like blue light block.

Every lens has its benefits, so it’s essential to understand what you need from your new eyeglasses.

Your prescription for eyeglasses will guide you in choosing your lenses for vision correction. If you want to reduce eye strain caused by too much screen time, an anti-glare coating can be added to your lenses.

SmartBuyGlasses has many different lens options and will recommend lenses based on the frames you choose to ensure they’re not too thick or thin. Lenses are available at different widths, with anti-reflective coatings, UV protection, and other features. To learn more about different lenses, head to our Lens Hub to read more.

6. Place your order

Now that you’ve found your perfect frames and added lenses, it’s time to place your order. Before purchasing, check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover all or some of your frame or lens costs.

At check out, enter your payment details, and if you have vision insurance, be sure to download an invoice and claim a reimbursement directly with your provider. It’s important to note that SmartBuyGlasses offers 100-day returns and a 2-year warranty so you can feel confident when you shop online.

Can I try on glasses when ordering online?

With advances in virtual AI technology, you can now try on over 10,000 glasses before purchasing your new pair using our Virtual Try-On tool. With so many frame styles, a virtual try-on is helpful as you begin your search.

To get started, all you need is your phone or computer. You’ll take a short video of yourself and then are free to try on frame after frame for as long as you want, eliminating any pressure or embarrassment you may experience in a retail store.

Is it a good idea to buy glasses online?

Buying glasses online has many benefits. Finding quality glasses online doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Besides taking advantage of online savings, you can avoid shopping in-store, where you may only be able to try on up to five frames.

Shopping online for eyewear opens the door to an endless amount of frames and lenses. It allows you to experiment and find a frame style that may not be available in-store.

Buying glasses online

Hopefully, how to buy glasses online is a bit clearer, and you’re ready to try it. SmartBuyGlasses carries one of the largest eyewear selections for men, women, and kids. We know buying eyeglasses can be stressful, but with high-quality frames and lenses, we make the search and purchase process as seamless as possible.

After your purchase, your new eyeglasses will arrive right to your doorsteps in just a few business days. After you’ve received your glasses, try them on to ensure the frames fit properly. It’s important to note that getting used to new glasses, especially those with new lenses, may take a few days to get used to.

Be sure to take proper care of your eyeglasses, clean the lenses properly and keep them in their case when they’re not being worn. If you still have questions or need help, head to our Optical Center and speak with one of our in-house Opticians. They’re here to answer any of your eyeglasses, lenses, and lens materials questions.

Do I Need Glasses?

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Do I Need Glasses?

The signs you need glasses | How often do I need to get an eye exam? | Online eye test | Online glasses prescription | What glasses should I get?

There are many signs that you may need glasses. if you've noticed any of these, it's time to get your eyes tested.

How do I know if I need glasses? Let us help you determine the most common signs you need glasses, how often you should have an eye exam and the best glasses for your vision problems.

The signs you need glasses:

There are many online ‘Do I Need Glasses’ quizzes you can take if you’re concerned you might need glasses. The common symptoms include:

Blurry vision: This is often a sign of astigmatism as well as short-sightedness and long-sightedness. If objects aren’t appearing clearly, it will cause fatigue and eye strain, so glasses can be a great solution.
Squinting and eye strain: Are you straining your eyes in order to see things near or far? This is a symptom that you need glasses.
Headaches:If you work long hours at the computer you should be wearing glasses with blue light protection to reduce headaches and eye strain.
Trouble seeing clearly at night-time:This could be a sign of cataracts or short-sightedness, so it’s important to see your optometrist for an eye exam if you’re experiencing difficulty seeing at night.
Rubbing your eyes:This is particularly common in children. You may just have an eye allergy, or you could need glasses.
Your parents wear glasses:bad vision can be genetic so it’s important to have an eye exam if close family members wear glasses.

How often do I need to get an eye exam?

Depending on your age and eye health, it is generally recommended by optometrists to have an eye test every one to two years.

Children’s eye examsshould commence from 6 months of age. They should receive another eye test at three years old and another before they commence school. After that, kids eye exams should happen periodically every two years. If your children do need glasses, read our guide on 5 tips for buying kids glasses here.
Adults 18-60: Every two years.
Adults 61 and older: every year
At risk people:If children or adults have a history of poor eye health in the family, more frequent eye exams are recommended.

Online eye test:

It’s important to visit an optometrist to check the health of your eyes as no online test is currently able to do this. Additionally, eye tests online aren’t able to provide you with new prescription details. There are some eye tests online that help to determine how good your level of vision is, but they should always be taken in conjunction with visits to your optometrist every two years.

DID YOU KNOW?

Telemedicine has made medical appointments more accessible. It allows you to have access to a medical professional in a timely manner, via a computer, tablet, or phone screen.

Online glasses prescription:

You can easily get your glasses prescription online with the SmartBuyGlasses Lens Scanner app. This app is able to read the optical parameters of your current glasses and extract your prescription details making it easy to buy glasses online anywhere, anytime. Plus, it’s completely free! You can read more about how to use our app here.

It’s important to remember that you should be happy with your current prescription to use this tool, as the app doesn’t find new prescription details.

It’s a great tool to use to buy a pair of replacement glasses or prescription sunglasses without the hassle of having to visit the optometrist again just to get your online glasses prescription. Try the app for yourself here.

What glasses should I get?

If it turns out you need glasses, the best place to discover and shop for eyewear is SmartBuyGlasses with over 180 designer brands and 80,000 glasses to choose from. We have a handy guide on how to buy your eyeglasses online here.

With the best price guarantee, you can shop brands like Tom Ford, Gucci, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana eyewear for less and be assured top quality glasses.

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How To Put Contact Lenses In

Why correct contact lens insertion matters

DID YOU KNOW?

How to put in contact lenses

Step 1: Wash your hands

Step 2: Clean your contact lenses

Step 3: Check the lens orientation

Step 4: Gently place the lens on your eye

Step 5: Verify the lens position

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When Were Glasses Invented?

When were the first glasses invented – the early stages | Who invented eyeglasses, and how were glasses made? | When did eyeglasses become common? | What if glasses were never invented?

When were the first glasses invented – the early stages

Who invented eyeglasses, and how were glasses made?

DID YOU KNOW?

When did eyeglasses become common?

What if glasses were never invented?

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How much do prescription glasses cost?

How much do prescription glasses cost?

Best cheap glasses

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How to choose glasses based on face shape

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Vitamin A