Scratched sunglasses can ruin your look, blur your vision, and strain your eyes. The scratches are the things that rarely go away entirely. However, there are several techniques available to repair scratches on sunglasses with UV protection.
Here, you can find out from DIY scratch removal methods to professional repair solutions for sunglasses. We also discuss some preventive methods to protect your sunglasses from scratches.
Why Should You Remove Scratches From Sunglasses?
Scratches on sunglasses can seriously affect their performance in multiple ways. For example.
Visual Clarity Creates Eye Strain
Scratches can scatter incoming light that leading to glare and reduced visual clarity. This disruption of light can create strain in your eyes if you are using them for a long time.
Aesthetic Deterioration and Resale Value
Aside from functionality, scratches on sunglasses make them look worn and poorly maintained. This affects their resale value and visual appearance.
Durability and Structural Risks
Deep scratches may signal hidden damage that can lead to cracks. This is especially risky during high-impact activities where strength and durability matter.
How to Repair Scratched Sunglasses at Home?
Keep in mind, this is not possible to remove 100% of scratches from sunglasses, but you can minimize them a lot. Cleaning the lenses effectively using basic items can sometimes save you money.
From the gentle buffing action of toothpaste to the polishing properties of car wax, there's a variety of DIY solutions at our disposal. Before thinking of replacement, you must try these simple internet hacks.
#1 Apply Toothpaste
For minor scratches, a dab of non-abrasive toothpaste on a clean cloth can work wonders. Gently apply it to the scratches using a lint-free cloth in a circular motion. Rinse the lenses with clean water and let them dry naturally.
Keep in mind, excessive toothpaste can damage the coating on your lenses. Also, an abrasive toothpaste can make scratches worse than before.
This method is simple yet effective, and can help reduce the prominence of gouges or scratches.
#2 Baking Soda & Water Mixture
Similar to toothpaste, another effective method is a baking soda paste. Mix it with a bit of water, apply it to a microfibre cloth, and rub it on the damaged area of your sunglasses. It is crucial to clean the lenses beforehand to avoid further scratches. This natural remedy is gentle on the coatings and can fix scratched sunglasses efficiently.
#3 Car Wax
Car wax is another effective method for scratches to your frame. We can’t find car wax in most of the homes, but this is cost-effective.
Start by cleaning your sunglasses using a microfiber cloth. Take a small amount of car wax and simply rub it on the scratched area. Clean it using a cloth and repeat this process if needed.
Note: Some low-quality or old car wax can impair your lens visibility and make scratches even more apparent.
#4 Brass Polish
Brass polish can aid in removing shallow scratches from the frames surface, especially if the sunglasses are made of metal or thick acetate. To avoid damage to the lenses. apply it gently with a soft cloth, taking care not to press too hard.
Similarly, you can also explore other methods to take scratches off sunglasses, such as using fine sandpaper, baby shampoo, vinegar, and more.
How to Buff a Scratch Out of Sunglasses?
If the home-based products do not work well, then you can try plastic-specific polishing cloths and pastes made by Novus(which you can buy here) to buff out scratches from your lenses. This is a cream made with aluminum oxide and propylene glycol monomethyl ether. This comes with 3 liquid solutions, including heavy, fine-tune, and shine scratch remover. Before you start, it's crucial to protect your lenses using painter's tape (masking tape) to prevent damaging your lenses.
How to use Novus liquid to repair scratches
- Sparingly apply the liquid from bottle no.3 (green) to the cloth provided. Avoiding your lenses, start polishing the worst of the scratches on your acetate frame. If you need to apply pressure, support your frame on a soft cloth upon a desk to prevent straining your frame’s hinges.
- Use a fresh cloth and bottle no.2 (red) to polish over the remaining scratches. This stage should start to become shiny and less scratched.
- For a high shine, use another fresh cloth and bottle no.1 (blue). This stage will take the longest but will bring your acetate back to a shiny surface finish.
That’s the most effective way to repair scratches on sunglasses.
Sunglasses repair services
The cost of glasses repair depends on the damage caused to your frame. There are various services online which offer a quotation based on your needs. See the list below for options.
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Do-It-Yourself vs Professional Repair Services
It’s recommended to weigh up the severity of the damage before choosing between DIY and professional repair. Minor scratches can often be tackled at home, while deep or numerous scratches might necessitate a professional's touch.
When to Opt for DIY Methods
If the scratches on your sunglasses are superficial, DIY methods can be a cost-effective solution. Always use gentle, circular motions and clean your glasses with a microfiber cloth to avoid adding more scratches.
Scenarios Where Professional Help Is Needed
When lenses are scratched deeply or if the scratches affect your vision, it is time to seek professional help. If your lenses are badly damaged, it may be time to have them replaced to ensure proper UV protection from the sun.
Preventative Measures to Keep Sunglasses Scratch-Free
To ensure your favourite pair of sunglasses remains scratch-free, adopt protective measures like routine cleaning and safe storage. This way, you're ready for summer fun without the worry of damaging your eyewear.
Routine Cleaning and Care Tips
Regularly clean your sunglasses with a gentle detergent such as dish soap to prevent stripping the coatings from your lenses. Avoid using harsh chemicals, and always use a soft, clean cloth for wiping.
Proper Storage Techniques
When not in use, store your sunglasses in a protective pouch or a hard case. This shields them from potential damage and helps maintain their condition, extending the life of your eyewear.
Quality Protective Accessories
Invest in quality accessories like microfiber cloths and protective cases to ensure cleaning your sunglasses doesn't lead to scratching the lenses. These accessories are essential for maintaining the longevity of your sunglasses.
Frequently Asked Questions Addressed
In this section, we'll tackle common concerns and provide guidance on maintaining your eyewear in top condition.
Can an Optician Fix Scratched Lenses?
No, this is impossible to fix a deeply scratched lens. But an optician can surely help with repairing minor scratches on sunglasses. They have a specialty glass cleaning spray that can remove anything from the lens surface.
The only fix for deeply scratched lenses is replacement. An optician can help with replacing the lenses of your sunglasses.
How Can I Safely Use Household Products to Clean or Repair Lenses?
While some household products can be safe for lens care, it's crucial to use them correctly. Always opt for mild detergents or cleaners that are gentle on glasses and sunglasses, and avoid any that contain abrasive substances.
How to remove too deep scratches?
Scratches that catch your fingernail as you glide over them are usually too deep to remove. In such cases, replacing the lens might be the only option to restore your vision and eyewear aesthetics.
Why Do Proper Lens Cleaning Habits Matter?
Proper lens cleaning habits can greatly extend the life of your lenses. Gently rub away dirt and smudges using a clean microfiber cloth, and avoid using materials that could scratch or degrade the lens coating.
Next Steps After Taking Off Scratches From Sunglasses
After trying to remove scratches, assess the lens carefully. If the scratch is still visible or if the lens is damaged, it's wise to consider replacing the lens to ensure clear vision and comfort.
Assessing the Results and Considering Replacement
Suppose your efforts to buff out the scratches are unsuccessful, and the scratch is still visible. In that case, it's time to consider a new pair or at least replace the affected lenses.
Enhancements: Upgrading to Scratch-Resistant Coatings
For your next set of shades, you should consider upgrading to lenses with scratch-resistant coatings which will preserve the longevity and clarity of your lenses. Scratch-resistant coatings are especially beneficial if you require prescription sunglasses, as you’ll likely be more dependent on them.
Another upgrade you may want to consider is rear-surface anti-reflective coatings (AR). As per the name, this additional coating is only applied to the backside surfaces of your lenses to prevent light from being reflected backwards into your eyes. If you wear fashion style sunglasses (flat frame curvature), AR coatings prevent the annoying phenomenon of ‘bounce back’ as described in this blog post.
Wrapping It Up: Clear Views Ahead
In your journey to restore your scratched sunglasses, you've explored various methods to buff away blemishes and regain that pristine look. It's essential, however, to remember that your ultimate goal is to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays with utmost clarity.
By carefully applying the scratch removal technique, you can get back your visibility again. If the scratches are deeper than it's time for a lens replacement. With scratches addressed and lenses polished, you’re hopefully set to enjoy unobstructed views and safeguard your eye health.