Glasses buyer’s guide

Your glasses prescription uses numbers and abbreviations (such as OD, OS, SPH, CYL, AXIS) to indicate the type and strength of lenses you need. We explain how to read your prescription to help you better understand your eye health.

The glasses frames are part of the aesthetic, but they also contribute to the function of your lenses and the fit is important for ensuring your glasses sit at the right place and are the right size so you don’t get headaches.

Knowing which style of glasses suits your face can be complicated because there are many different styles. Understanding your face shape can be helpful, as it narrows down the styles that will suit you best.

Finding the right fit for your glasses can be tricky. They shouldn’t slip down your nose, nor be so tight that they leave marks on the bridge. Several factors contribute to ensuring the best fit, especially when getting used to new glasses.

There are different types of lenses for glasses, each with specific functions. While the shape of your lenses depends on your prescription and cannot be chosen, you can select the type of lens and coatings that best suit your needs.

Glasses and sunglasses can be crafted from materials such as acetate, titanium, bio-based plastics, or even wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, making some better suited to certain needs than others.

If you need two pairs of glasses, one for close-up work and one for everyday wear, you usually have to switch between them. With varifocal lenses, you can do everything with just one pair, making life much easier.