Nothing ruins a sunny day quicker than constantly pushing your sunglasses back up.
If your sunglasses aren’t sitting properly, it can be distracting, uncomfortable, and even wear down your patience. What’s more, ill-fitting sunglasses might not offer the protection your eyes need against harmful UV rays.
Luckily, there are simple ways to fix this all-too-common issue. Simple measures like cleaning your glasses, anti-slip nose pads or strips, and eyeglass grip products can help, but the real solution is working with your optometrist to find glasses that fit you perfectly.
Why Do Sunglasses Slip in the First Place?
First things first, the problem isn’t you; it’s your sunglasses. Your shades can slide down your nose for several reasons, the most common being a poor fit.
- Frames That Are Too Wide or Tight: If your sunglasses are too wide, they won’t grip your face securely enough. Alternatively, frames that are too tight may not sit comfortably on your nose, causing them to slip out of place.
- Poorly Adjusted Nose Pads or Bridge: Nose pads help keep sunglasses steady, but if they’re misaligned or not properly adjusted, they can lose their grip on your nose. Plastic frames without adjustable nose pads may also struggle to stay put if the bridge size isn’t right for your face.
- Sweat and Natural Oils: Warm weather causes sweat and natural oils to accumulate on your skin, which can make your sunglasses slide. Smooth plastic frames, in particular, are more likely to lose their hold when things get slippery.
- Heavy Lenses: Sunglasses with thick or weighted lenses can cause extra strain on the bridge of your nose, making it harder for them to stay in place.
Sunglasses that fit poorly often end up not doing their job. If you’re not thrilled with how they look and feel, you’re less likely to reach for them. This means less sun protection, visual clarity, and comfort.
Besides, these causes aren’t unique to sunglasses, they can happen with eyeglasses too.
Tips to Prevent Sunglasses from Sliding
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent your shades (or any glasses) from sliding down your face.
Even if your sunglasses fit you perfectly at first, ongoing adjustments are normal. Glasses are like jeans. With wear and love, they start to fit better.
The most reliable way of preventing sunglasses from slipping and sliding is visiting your optometrist for regular adjustments.
You might be tempted to bend and mold your glasses at home, but please don’t. Even with a light hand, you’re at risk of breaking or damaging your glasses. It’s better to leave this one to us.
Adjust the Nose Pads
Most metal-framed sunglasses come with adjustable nose pads. These can be gently repositioned to sit snugly on your nose.
Nose pads should sit evenly on your nose without pinching or leaving red marks. They should also provide a secure grip while allowing enough room for airflow.
You might be tempted to adjust them yourself, but save yourself the trial and error and visit us first. We have the tools, skills, and knowledge to adjust nose pads to fit and sit snugly and comfortably.
Use Anti-Slip Nose Pads or Strips
If your sunglasses don’t have adjustable nose pads, stick-on anti-slip pads are the way to go.
These small silicone attachments create friction and help your frames stay in place, even during humid or sporty conditions. They’re easy to apply, affordable, and available in various shapes to fit all frame styles.
Adjust the Arms or Temples
The temples (arms) of your sunglasses also influence fit.
If the arms are too straight or tight, they might not grip well enough behind your ears. Too loose, and they’ll be moving around more than you like.
Instead of bending the arms (you might break them), pay us a visit. We can adjust your frames for a better fit.
Try Wax or Eyeglass Grip Products
Eyewear wax or gel products can prevent slipping by creating a sticky layer between your frames and nose. Simply apply a small amount to the bridge of your sunglasses, and you’re set for hours of wear without adjusting.
Keep Your Frames Clean
Dust, sweat, and oils can accumulate on your sunglasses, making them slippery. Clean your frames and nose pads regularly to keep them grip-ready. Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle lens cleaner for solid results.
Finding Sunglasses that Fit You Perfectly
If you’re constantly battling sliding sunglasses, your frames might not be the right fit for your face shape. Well-fitting frames should:
- Sit evenly on your nose without sliding down.
- Rest snugly against your ears without any pressure.
- Allow the lenses to align in the center with your pupils.
If you work with us to find your frames, we’ll not only help find you a comfortable pair, but we’ll also make any tweaks that are needed to get you a snug, pleasant fit. A custom fitting is always the way to go.
The Slip n Slide Is For You, Not Your Sunglasses
Keeping your sunglasses from sliding down your nose doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right adjustments, tools, and professional help, your frames should stay securely in place while offering exceptional comfort and protection.
If you’re tired of sunglasses that don’t fit, visit Total Vision El Cajon today! Our experienced team can help you find the perfect pair or adjust your current frames so you can focus on enjoying the sunshine, not fiddling with your sunglasses.
