Maya Ellison
Plastic-framed sunglasses can be adjusted to achieve a better fit. Before attempting to adjust your sunglasses, it is important to understand the basic anatomy of your glasses. Most eyeglasses use screws located at the temple hinges on both sides. If your glasses are too loose, you can tighten the screws using a small screwdriver. If your frames are made of plastic, you can also adjust them by applying heat and then bending the temple arms. However, it is important to be cautious when applying heat to plastic frames, as they can be more difficult to adjust than metal frames and may snap if not heated properly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials that can be adjusted | Stainless steel, plastic/acetate temple arms with embedded stainless steel rods |
| Materials that resist adjustment | Titanium, memory titanium, memory plastic, aluminum alloy, TR |
| Tools required | Eyeglasses repair kit, small screwdriver, optometric screwdriver, pliers, heat gun, hair dryer |
| Steps to loosen | Soak temple ends in hot water, gently push temple ends up, adjust both sides, test and repeat as needed |
| Steps to tighten | Turn screws clockwise until resistance is felt, bend temple ends down |
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What You'll Learn
Know the basic anatomy of your sunglasses
To loosen or tighten plastic-tightened sunglasses, it is important to first understand the basic anatomy of your sunglasses. This knowledge will allow you to troubleshoot any issues with your shades and communicate effectively with optical professionals.
The frame is the basic structure of the sunglasses, surrounding and supporting the lenses. It is usually made of plastic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Metal frames are generally lighter and more flexible than plastic ones. Metal frames are also strong, durable, and resistant to corrosion, while plastic frames offer a wide variety of colours and patterns.
The rims, also called eye wires, are part of the frame that holds the lenses in place. They come in various shapes, such as round, square, or oval, and can be full rims or semi-rimless. The rims give the sunglasses their distinctive style and character.
The bridge is a crucial part of the frame, connecting the two rims and resting on the nose. It supports most of the frame's weight and determines whether the sunglasses fit well. The design and style of the bridge vary according to the wearer's facial shape.
The hinges are movable metal joints found between the temples and end pieces or inside the frame. They enable the wearer to fold and unfold the temples, allowing the glasses to be easily put on and taken off. There are different types of hinges, such as standard hinges and spring hinges.
The temples are the side arms of the sunglasses that extend from the lenses to the ears. They come in different types, such as straight temples, cable temples, and hockey end or swan neck temples. The temples can be adjusted to tighten or loosen the sunglasses by bending them accordingly.
The lenses are the most crucial part of the sunglasses, as they protect the eyes from sunlight, glare, and ultraviolet (UV) rays. They can be made of polycarbonate, high-index plastic, or glass, and can have additional features such as polarisation, tint, mirror coating, photochromic properties, or gradient tints.
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Adjust using a screwdriver
While plastic frames can be adjusted using a screwdriver, it is a more challenging process than with metal frames. Most glasses frames are made of plastic or other breakable materials, so it's important to be careful when making adjustments to avoid causing them to snap.
Before adjusting your sunglasses, it is important to get to know the basic components of your glasses. Knowing where to find parts such as the temple corners, nose pads, and temple end pieces will allow you to troubleshoot your shades with ease.
Most eyeglasses use screws located at the temple hinges on both sides. To adjust your glasses, you can use an optometric screwdriver or any small screwdriver that fits the screws on your sunglasses. When tightening your glasses with a screwdriver, turn the screw clockwise until you feel some resistance. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this can damage the frames and make them looser if the metal or plastic around the screws breaks.
If your glasses are still loose after tightening the screws, you can try adjusting the nosepiece. Use your thumbs to move the nose pads closer together until you reach your desired comfort and tightness level. Remember to adjust both nose pads equally to avoid making your glasses feel crooked and uncomfortable.
If you are unsure about adjusting your plastic-framed sunglasses with a screwdriver, it is best to take them to an optician for professional adjustment.
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Bend the temple arms
If your plastic sunglasses frames are sitting higher or lower on your nose than desired, you can adjust them by bending the temple arms.
First, make the plastic pliable by heating it. You can do this by immersing the temple ends of your glasses in hot water for 30 to 60 seconds, or by using a hairdryer.
Next, bend the temple arms. If the left temple arm is higher than the right, bend the right temple arm down. If the right temple arm is higher than the left, bend the left temple arm down. Apply gentle pressure and bend the arms slowly and steadily. You should bend the arms at the curve of the arm (where it bends over your ear) or at the hinge where the lens frame and arm connect.
After allowing your glasses to cool, try them on and observe the fit in a mirror. Repeat the process until your glasses rest evenly on your face.
If you are unsure about adjusting your glasses yourself, it is recommended to visit an optician.
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Use hot water
Using hot water is an effective way to loosen plastic-tightened sunglasses. This method is ideal for plastic frames, which can be challenging to adjust without heat. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Prepare the Water
Firstly, prepare a container of warm to hot water. The water should be hot but not boiling, as this could damage the frames. A good way to test the temperature is to place your finger in the water; if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot for your sunglasses.
Heat the Frames
Now, it's time to heat the frames. You can either immerse the temple ends of your sunglasses in the water for 30-60 seconds, or you can hold the arms under a running tap for 20-30 seconds. The latter method is preferable as it reduces the risk of damaging the lenses.
Adjust the Frames
Once the frames are warm and flexible, it's time to adjust them. Be careful not to over-adjust, as plastic frames can snap. Gently push the temple ends downwards with your index fingers while using your thumbs to push upwards. This will modify the bend behind your ear. Ensure you maintain the natural curve shape to avoid overcorrection.
Cool the Frames
After adjusting, place the sunglasses on a flat surface and allow them to cool completely before trying them on. You can test the fit and make further adjustments if needed.
Tips and Precautions
- This method is not suitable for glasses with Optyl frames, as they may warp out of shape when heated.
- Avoid getting the lenses wet, as hot water can damage the coating.
- Always be gentle when adjusting your sunglasses, and avoid using excessive force.
- Regularly check the screws at the temple corners to ensure they are tight.
- If you are unsure or hesitant about adjusting your sunglasses, it is best to consult an optician.
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Take them to an optician
While there are several methods to loosen plastic-tightened sunglasses at home, it is always best to take them to an optician for professional help. Opticians have the necessary tools, skills, and expertise to adjust your sunglasses without causing any damage. They can ensure a precise and secure fit, preventing any discomfort or headaches caused by ill-fitting sunglasses.
If you are unsure about the flexibility of your plastic frames, it is recommended to seek the assistance of an optician. They can determine the appropriate method to loosen your sunglasses without causing any harm. Opticians are trained to handle various frame materials and designs, including semi-rimless styles that can be challenging to adjust. By taking your sunglasses to an optician, you can avoid the risk of scratching, damaging, or breaking your lenses and frames.
Additionally, opticians can provide expert advice on the proper care and maintenance of your sunglasses. They can guide you on how to store and handle your sunglasses correctly, preventing issues such as crooked frames or pinching on the nose. Opticians may also offer services such as lens cleaning, nose pad adjustments, and recommendations for future care.
When visiting an optician, bring your sunglasses case and any additional accessories to ensure they have all the necessary components for adjustment. If you have specific fit preferences, you can communicate them to the optician, ensuring your sunglasses are adjusted to your desired level of comfort. Opticians often have a range of tools and techniques to fine-tune your sunglasses, providing you with a personalised and comfortable fit.
While it may be tempting to adjust your sunglasses at home, seeking professional help from an optician can save you time and provide peace of mind. They can efficiently address any issues with your sunglasses, ensuring a safe and comfortable wearing experience. By entrusting your sunglasses to an optician, you can rest assured that your eyewear will be handled with care and expertise.
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Frequently asked questions
Adjusting plastic-tightened sunglasses can be done in a few ways, depending on the style of the sunglasses. One way is to soak the temple ends in hot water and then use your fingers to gently push the temple end upwards to achieve a looser fit.
You may need an eyeglasses repair kit containing a small screwdriver, or any screwdriver that fits the screw head. You may also need a hairdryer or heat gun to apply heat to the frames.
Sunglasses that are too tight may cause discomfort and headaches. If you are constantly pushing your glasses up your nose, they may need loosening.
If you are hesitant about adjusting your sunglasses, it is best to take them to an optician for professional adjustments.
