In recent years, the number of people requiring prescription glasses has risen. Rates of short-sightedness are increasing in the UK, affecting one in three people. Jugnoo Rahi, an Honorary Consultant Ophthalmologist and Professor of Ophthalmic Epidemiology, reveals that this is potentially caused by ‘near viewing’ when studying and socialising and less distance viewing (looking at things outside)—especially now that more people live in urban communities. Luckily, eye issues like these can be addressed by wearing prescription glasses.

If you recently found yourself needing such eyewear and are unsure of how to buy a pair that suits your needs, here are some valuable tips for buying prescription glasses for the first time:

Determine your prescription

You're usually told you need prescription glasses through an eye exam, where an optometrist tests your visual acuity—or your ability to see at various distances. If you're found to have blurry vision, you'll be given a prescription for vision correction. This is what you need to get the correct pair of glasses, so it's vital that you understand what your prescription means and how it will translate into eyewear.

One of the first things you should know is that prescriptions tell opticians how much vision correction you need. That includes the sphere, cylinder, axis, prism, and base values for both eyes. Your optometrist is legally required to give you a copy of your prescription after your eye test, so be sure you keep yours safe.

It will stay valid for the next two years, meaning you can then use it to purchase prescription glasses either in person or online. Prescriptions usually come in the standard NHS prescription layout. If your prescription comes in other formats, like those provided by NHS Scotland, Boots, or Vision Express, be sure the retailer of your choice accepts them before purchasing your prescription glasses.

Measure your pupillary distance

Apart from your prescription, you’ll want to know your pupillary distance before getting glasses. This pertains to the distance between the centres of your pupils, and measuring them is necessary to determine if you’re looking out of the best spots in your glasses. If you're planning to buy your glasses online, ask your optometrist to measure your pupillary distance and include that information in your prescription.

You can also measure it on your own by using a ruler. Stand 30 cm from a mirror before holding the ruler against your eyebrows. Look straight ahead and close your right eye so that the 0 mm mark aligns with the middle of your left pupil. Then, open your right eye and close your left. The number that lines up with the centre of your right pupil is your pupillary distance. Providing the shop of your choice with these measurements will help them craft the best prescription glasses for your needs.

Choose suitable lens materials

These days, you can choose from several lens materials for your prescription glasses. Thanks to technological improvements in healthcare, like using advanced equipment to improve patients’ quality of life, your glasses’ lenses can be more suited to your needs and preferences. For instance, you may want shatter-proof lenses if you’re clumsy or have a physically intensive job.

Choosing the best lens material is easy when you know the different types. Those made out of resin are lightweight and offer high-impact resistance, perfect if you need long-lasting prescription glasses. Meanwhile, photochromic lenses are clear indoors but turn darker when exposed to UV light from the sun. This is best if you spend lots of time outdoors, so you don’t need to always bring sunglasses. Picking the right lens material ensures you'll be satisfied with how your prescription glasses fit into your daily activities.

Get the right frames

Besides lens material, you will also be asked to pick your frames. Many are made out of plastic and metal, each having benefits. Plastic frames are often lightweight and aren’t prone to corrosion due to sweat or oil, while metal ones are more durable and sturdy.

You’d also want to consider your face shape when choosing your frames. After all, different frames suit different faces. If you have a square-shaped face, round or curved frames can soften sharp angles like your jawline and cheekbones. On the other hand, heart-shaped faces are best paired with rectangular frames to balance out your appearance. Of course, you can pick any frame style you want, but getting the right frames will make you feel more confident and encourage you to wear your prescription glasses more consistently.

Buying prescription glasses is easy and simple when you know what to do. Remember these tips so you can purchase the best pair possible!