Portrait of black woman wearing black frame glasses

Can You Get Scratches Out of Your Glasses?

Scratched lenses can be frustrating, impairing your vision and diminishing the aesthetic of your glasses. It’s a common question: can you get scratches out of your glasses? While there are plenty of so-called remedies floating around, the truth is that most are ineffective and may even do more harm than good. Let’s dive into some of the common DIY methods, the risks they pose, and the best steps to take if your glasses get scratched.

A technician polishing new glasses frame

Common Remedies: Why They Don’t Work

You’ve probably heard of DIY fixes, but most of them do more harm than good:

  1. Toothpaste: It’s too abrasive and can strip your lens coatings.

  2. Baking Soda Paste: Same issue as toothpaste—it’ll damage protective layers.

  3. Glass Polishing Kits: Meant for windshields, not your lenses. Avoid these.

  4. Furniture Polish or Wax: Might fill scratches temporarily, but leaves a residue that’s hard to clean.

  5. Sunscreen: Fills scratches but leaves an oily mess that clouds your vision.

  6. Glass Etching Products: Way too harsh for eyeglass lenses and can cause permanent damage.

The Real Solution: Replace Your Lenses

The unfortunate reality is that scratches on eyeglass lenses are usually permanent. Attempting to polish or buff them out will often result in further damage, especially if your lenses have coatings like anti-glare or UV protection. The best solution for scratched lenses is to have them replaced entirely.

Woman trying on a pair of glasses in an optometry shop

How to Avoid Scratches

Take these steps to keep your glasses scratch-free:

  • Use a Case: Store your glasses in a hard case when not wearing them.

  • Clean Properly: Use a microfiber cloth, not your shirt or paper towels.

  • Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Stick to lens-safe solutions.

  • Handle Gently: Hold your glasses by the frame and don’t place them lens-down.

Bottom Line

While it may be tempting to try a quick DIY fix for scratched lenses, these methods often cause more harm than good. The safest and most effective solution is to replace scratched lenses entirely. By investing in proper care and handling, you can minimize scratches and extend the lifespan of your glasses.


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