From blurry vision to a style refresh, here’s how to know when to upgrade.
Your favorite pair of glasses works hard—helping you see clearly, protecting your eyes, and showing off your style. But just like any essential tool, they don't last forever.
As SF-based eyewear experts, we know it's easy to miss the gradual signs that your glasses aren't performing at their best.
So, how do you know when it's time for an upgrade? Here are the 5 expert signs we tell our customers to look for.
1. Your Vision Just Isn't "Right" Anymore
This is the most critical sign. If you find yourself squinting at distant signs, getting frequent headaches after reading, or feeling like the world is just a bit blurrier, your prescription is likely outdated.
Eye health can change gradually. Most doctors recommend an eye exam every 1–2 years to keep your prescription current and your vision sharp.
2. Your Lenses are Scratched, Cloudy, or Peeling
A clear lens is essential for clear vision. If you're looking at the world through a web of micro-scratches, your eyes are working overtime to focus, which can cause serious strain.
Over time, protective coatings (like anti-reflective or blue light filtering) can also wear down, leaving your lenses looking foggy, discolored, or "peeling" at the edges. If you're constantly wiping your glasses to no avail, a fresh pair of lenses will feel like a brand-new day.
3. Your Frames are Damaged, Warped, or Don't Fit
A bent arm, a cracked bridge, or a missing nose pad isn't just a cosmetic issue. A poor fit can completely change how your prescription works, causing your glasses to slide down your nose, pinch, or sit crooked. This can lead to headaches and distortion.
Our Expert Tip: If your frames are all-metal and just slightly bent, you may be able to get them adjusted. But if the plastic or acetate is warped, cracked, or the hinge is broken, it's definitely time for a replacement.
4. You're Getting Frequent Headaches or Eye Strain
This is your body's alarm bell. Frequent headaches (especially behind the eyes), tired or watery eyes, or difficulty focusing on your computer could mean your glasses are failing you.
This could be an outdated prescription (#1), worn-out lenses (#2), or a sign that your lifestyle has changed. If you've started a new job with more screen time, you may now need dedicated blue light glasses to reduce digital eye strain.
5. Your Style (or Life) Has Changed
This one is just as important. Your glasses are the most prominent accessory you wear. If your current pair feels dated, or just doesn't match your new job, new haircut, or new "you," it's time for a change.
Your eyewear should make you feel confident. If you're not excited to put your glasses on, let's find a pair that you love.
Your Next Step: From "Not Sure" to "Perfect Pair"
If you're nodding your head to one or more of these signs, your next step is simple: get an updated prescription.
Once you have that, we're here to help. At Choice Eyewear, every frame we sell includes free, high-quality clear single-vision lenses.
We're a passionate, SF-based small business, and our expert team is here to help you find the perfect, confidence-boosting pair that fits your prescription, your style, and your life.
🛍️ Browse our collection or contact us for help with your prescription.
