How to Remove Scratches from Glasses

Can you Polish Scratches Out of Glasses?

No, you cannot polish scratches out of glasses. Polishing scratches out of glasses won’t work, as the surface of the lens may be permanently damaged. Modern spectacle lenses have multiple surface coatings, and once these coatings are scratched, they cannot be restored by polishing without damaging the optical lens quality. As a result, replacing the lens is usually the only effective solution. An optometrist or optician will be able to examine how deep the scratches are and decide if the lenses need to be replaced. Polishing your glasses can help them look clearer and cleaner; however, you may still be able to see the scratches.

Can you Buff Scratches Out of Eyeglasses?

No, you cannot buff scratches out of eyeglasses. Buffing is not generally recommended for glasses, as it is too abrasive and can cause more scratches and damage. You will need to take your glasses to your optometrist so they can assess how severe or deep the scratch is and let you know if they need to be replaced. Buffing scratches out may be more relevant to the surfaces of cars and can work on superficial scratches that cannot be felt with your fingernail and involve removing the thin layer of the car’s clear coat with a buffing pad.

Is Wearing Scratched Glasses Bad?

Yes and no; wearing scratched glasses can be bad if they obstruct your view. However, if the damage does not hinder your clear view, it may not necessarily be bad to wear scratched glasses. Scratches may also increase glare, halos and reduced contrast sensitivity, especially when driving at night.

What are the Precautions when Using DIY Methods for Scratch Removal?

The precautions when using DIY methods for scratch removal include avoiding abrasive materials, using a proper lens cleaning solution and using a microfibre cloth. However, it is important to note that we do not advise customers to try removing scratches from their glasses themselves. These points are to emphasize the risk of further damage. The precautions when using DIY methods for scratch removal on glasses are listed below.

• Avoiding Abrasive Material: Avoid using abrasive material, as this can cause more scratches to your glasses. Abrasive materials can include certain types of clothing, paper towels, tissues and certain cleaning solutions.
• Using a Proper Lens Cleaning Solution: Use a proper cleaning solution, as some cleaning solutions may be too harsh for eyeglasses. It is recommended to use an approved lens cleaner, or one that is bought from an optometrist.
• Use a Microfibre Cloth: Use a microfibre cloth when wiping and/or cleaning your glasses, as its non-abrasive nature and fine fibres effectively trap dirt and dust without scratching the lenses.

When to Seek Professional Help for Scratched Glasses?

You should seek professional help for scratched glasses when the scratches obstruct your vision. If the scratches are near your line of vision and become a nuisance, it may also be advisable to take them to your optometrist.

How to Prevent Your Eyeglasses from Scratches?

To prevent your eyeglasses from scratches, ensure correct storage, handle your eyeglasses with care, check where your eyeglasses are before you sit and avoid keeping eyeglasses alone in pockets or bags. The ways to prevent your eyeglasses from scratches are listed below.

• Use proper storage: Use proper storage after every use. It is best to keep your glasses in the case they originally came with when they are not in use to prevent them from getting scratched and minimize dirt and debris.
• Check where your eyeglasses are before you sit: Always check where your eyeglasses are before you sit down, as this can prevent them from getting scratched or bent.
• Avoid keeping eyeglasses alone in pockets or bags: Avoid putting your eyeglasses alone in pockets or bags to prevent them from rubbing against potentially harsh material.