Buying glasses is more than just picking a frame that looks good — it’s about matching lens types, prescription accuracy, and comfort with how you actually use your eyewear day to day. Whether you’re shopping for your first pair, replacing an old favorite, or upgrading for a specific activity, this guide walks you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Get a Valid Prescription
Before you shop, you’ll need an up-to-date eyeglass prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. A valid prescription includes:
- Sphere (SPH) – Strength of correction for nearsightedness or farsightedness
- Cylinder (CYL) – Correction for astigmatism (if applicable)
- Axis – Orientation of astigmatism correction
- ADD – Additional correction for reading (bifocal or progressive lenses)
- PD (Pupillary Distance) – Distance between your pupils, measured in millimeters
Tip: PD is not always included in your prescription — request it during your exam or measure it yourself with a ruler and mirror.
Step 2: Choose the Right Lens Type
Single Vision
Corrects one field of vision (distance, reading, or intermediate). Most common and simplest lens type.
Bifocal
Two distinct sections for distance and reading. Visible line in the lens.
Progressive
Multiple focal points (distance, intermediate, near) with a smooth gradient. No visible lines.
Reading Glasses
Magnification-only lenses for close-up work. Available over-the-counter or customized to your prescription.
Step 3: Select Lens Materials
- Polycarbonate – Lightweight and impact-resistant. Ideal for safety, sport, and children’s glasses.
- Trivex – Lightweight with better optical clarity than polycarbonate.
- High-Index – Thinner lenses for stronger prescriptions.
- Standard Plastic (CR-39) – Basic, affordable, and good optical clarity.
- Glass – Scratch-resistant but heavier and more breakable.
Step 4: Pick Your Lens Coatings
- Anti-Reflective (AR) – Reduces glare from screens and overhead lights.
- Scratch-Resistant – Helps lenses last longer, especially in daily-use glasses.
- UV Protection – A must-have for outdoor wear.
- Blue Light Filtering – Reduces digital eye strain from screens.
- Photochromic – Lenses darken in sunlight, eliminating the need for separate sunglasses.
Step 5: Find the Right Frame
Size
Check for three numbers printed inside the temple arm of most glasses:
- Lens Width – Usually 48–58 mm
- Bridge Width – Usually 14–24 mm
- Temple Length – Usually 135–150 mm
Fit
Choose a frame that matches your face shape:
- Oval Faces – Most frame styles work
- Round Faces – Angular, rectangular frames add definition
- Square Faces – Round or oval frames soften strong lines
- Heart-Shaped Faces – Bottom-heavy or oval frames provide balance
Material
- Metal – Sleek, lightweight, and adjustable
- Acetate – Strong plastic, durable, and colorful
- TR90/Nylon – Flexible, impact-resistant, great for sport or safety
- Titanium – Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, hypoallergenic
Step 6: Shop In-Store vs. Online
In-Store
- Try frames on for fit and comfort
- Immediate adjustments available
- On-site optician support
Online
- Greater selection and competitive pricing
- Upload prescription and PD
- Virtual try-on tools (varies by seller)
Tip: Many online retailers offer first-time buyer discounts, satisfaction guarantees, or free returns.
Bonus: Buying Glasses for Specific Needs
- Workplace Safety – Choose ANSI-rated or impact-resistant lenses
- Sports Use – Look for wraparound frames and shatterproof materials
- Fashion – Focus on frame style, color, and size
- Driving – Consider polarized lenses for sun glare
- Screen Use – Look into blue light filtering and AR coatings
Final Tips Before Buying
- Double-check prescription entry, especially plus/minus signs
- Read reviews for fit, lens quality, and durability
- Verify warranty and return policy — especially for online orders
- Consider getting a spare pair (reading, outdoor, or work-specific)