Our sight is one of the most precious senses we possess, often going unnoticed as we move through our days effortlessly seeing the world around us. That is, until our glasses start slipping down our noses, and suddenly, it becomes all we can think about!
So, why do glasses slide, can it be avoided, and what can you do to prevent it from happening again?

Why Do Glasses Slip?
Glasses may slip for a variety of reasons, but the most common one is poor fit. If your glasses don’t fit your features or haven’t been adjusted properly to your face, they may slide or rub uncomfortably.
Frames that are too wide or narrow for your face may not sit securely, while nose bridges or pads that are poorly fitted may lack the grip needed to keep the glasses in place. Similarly, if the temples (the sides of your glasses) aren’t adjusted to fit behind your ears correctly, they will not provide the required stability.
Can It Be Avoided?
In short, yes! Well-fitting glasses that have been properly adjusted by a qualified optician should fit comfortably throughout the day, acting like a seamless part of your wardrobe. Your glasses should feel secure but not too tight, sitting comfortably on your nose and ears without slipping down.
Good-quality frame materials, such as Japanese titanium and aged acetate, will hold their shape better than cheaper counterparts.
However, even the best-fitting and highest-quality glasses can slide due to factors beyond your control, such as changes in temperature. Just like how your rings may feel tighter in summer than in winter, your glasses can also experience similar fluctuations. The shape and size of your head can slightly change with the seasons—swelling in warmer weather and contracting in cooler conditions—which can affect how your glasses fit.

How to Stop Glasses from Slipping
There are a few steps you can take to keep your glasses secure:
Get Them Professionally Adjusted
A visit to your optician for an adjustment is the first step. Opticians can tailor the fit of your frames to your unique face, ensuring they rest properly on your nose and ears.
Nose Pads
If your glasses have adjustable nose pads, make sure they are positioned correctly. Your optician can tweak them to sit more securely, offering additional grip.
Frame Size and Shape
Get advice from a qualified glasses professional (dispensing optician) when selecting your eyewear. They can recommend the best frame shape and size based on your facial features.
Regular Tuning
As mentioned, your face and head size will change throughout the seasons. A glasses ‘MOT’ every six months will ensure your glasses stay in optimal condition.
Avoid Extreme Conditions
Extreme heat can cause your glasses to lose their shape. Avoid leaving them on your dashboard, near a window, or over a radiator, as these environments can cause frames to warp.
In Conclusion
While glasses slipping can be annoying, it’s a problem that can often be fixed with a proper fitting frame and a few simple adjustments. By visiting your optician regularly and taking a few preventative steps, you can ensure that your glasses stay comfortably in place, leaving you to enjoy your day without the distraction of constantly pushing them back up your nose!
Hayley Brunsden Founder & Optometrist

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I have always been extremely passionate about exceptional client care. After working in different optical practices since 2010 I felt the optical industry needed a cultural reset, and so began building the CBTR brand; a business wholeheartedly committed to sustainability whilst never compromising in quality or care.Â
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