How to Repair Scratched Eyeglass Lenses

If you wear eyeglasses or sunglasses, then you know how easy they can get scratched. Lens that are made out of glass hold up better than their plastic counterparts, of course. But even sturdy glass lens get scratched. Once your eyeglasses have enough scratches on the lens, they’re harder to see out of. You may think it’s then time to visit your optometrist to order a new pair. By the time you add up the cost of the frames plus the replacement lens, the total can really put a dent in your wallet!

As long as your eyeglass prescription is up-to-date, you may be able to save yourself time and money by simply repairing the scratched lens yourself. Light scratches can often be buffed out by using a polishing kit. These kits usually cost ten to twenty dollars. They are available at your optometrist’s office or at your local department store. Or, you can check the Internet to see what is available for sale online.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions that are included with the kit you buy in order to achieve the best results. Basically, though, the kit includes a special polish and a soft cloth. The process to repair scratched eyeglass lens is a simple two-step one. First, you’ll need to make sure your lens are clean and free from dust, smears, and smudges. Then, you’ll apply some of the special polish onto both sides of both of the lens. The polish will need to set undisturbed for a certain number of minutes. Then, the second step is to use the soft cloth that came with the kit to buff the lens until the polish is completely gone. The lens of your eyeglasses should now be clear again, and free from any light scratches they previously had!

Note: Be sure you read the instructions on the scratch removing kit before you buy it! Some polishes won’t work properly if your eyeglasses have a protective coating or a non-glare surface on them.

If your eyeglasses have deep scratches or gouges on them, this type of damage can’t be buffed out. Instead, you’ll need to visit your optometrist to order replacement lens.

Typically, eyeglass lens get light scratches on them from day-to-day wear. If you use a dry tissue or paper towel to wipe the glass or plastic, for example, scratches will appear instantly! To avoid this problem, be sure that you always use a recommended cleaner and a soft cloth to clean your eyeglasses with.

Here’s another tip: Don’t ever touch the lens of your eyeglasses with your fingers either. Handle them by the frames instead.

And, when you’re not wearing your eyeglasses, you should store them in their protective case. That will help to keep the lens in good shape.