The Complete Guide to Purchasing and Wearing Non Prescription Frames and Eyewear

An In-Depth Guide to Non Prescription Frames

Glasses and contact lenses have become indispensable for many people around the world. Over 2.8 billion people suffer from near or farsightedness globally. For those with vision impairment, eyeglasses and contact lenses help correct refractive errors so they can see clearly.

Sometimes people also wear non prescription glasses or “fashion eyewear” simply as an accessory to complete or enhance an outfit. Non prescription frames allow you to make a fashion statement and protect your eyes from glare and UV rays without having to wear a medical device.

With so many options on the market, from popular brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley to budget-friendly generic brands, it can be overwhelming to choose non prescription eyewear. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to find the perfect pair of non prescription frames.

Types of Non Prescription Eyewear

There are a few main categories of non prescription eyewear:

• Decorative plastic and metal frames - These frames don’t have prescription lenses, but allow you to achieve a “glasses” look. The lenses are made of clear plastic or polycarbonate.
• Sunglasses - Sunglasses can have tinted plastic or polycarbonate lenses to block UV rays and reduce glare. Popular styles include aviators, wayfarers, and cat eye sunglasses.
• Reading glasses - Reading glasses have magnifying lenses to help compensate for age-related near vision problems like presbyopia. They come in a range of strengths like +1.00, +1.50, +2.00, etc.
• Computer glasses - These have an anti-reflective coating and mildly magnifying lenses to optimize vision for digital screens while blocking blue light.

Factors to Consider When Buying Non Prescription Eyewear

There are several factors you’ll want to consider when choosing non prescription frames:

• Frame material - Frames come in plastic, metal, titanium, nylon, and other materials. Plastic frames are lightweight while metal frames are more durable.
• Frame size - Measure your pupillary distance to find the correct frame width for your face. Temple arm length will determine the right frame height.
• Frame shape - Round, rectangular, cat eye and other shapes flatter different facial structures.
• Color - Frame colors like black, brown, tortoiseshell, clear or bright colors complement different complexions.
• Lifestyle - Consider your hobbies, job, sports, etc. when choosing frames. For example, sturdy frames with impact resistance would suit high velocity sports.
• UV protection - Verify non prescription lenses block 100% of UV rays.
• Prescription compatibility - If you may need prescription lenses later, ensure frames can accommodate them.
• Price - Non prescription eyewear ranges from $5 to $500+. Set a budget that works for your needs.

Where to Buy Non Prescription Glasses

You can purchase non prescription glasses and sunglasses from a variety of retailers:

• Online - Online stores like GlassesUSA, Warby Parker, and Eyebuydirect offer flexibility to shop from home. They also tend to offer lower prices by cutting out middlemen.
• Optical retail chains - Stores like LensCrafters, America’s Best, Visionworks, and Costco Optical carry non prescription eyewear.
• Independent eyeglass stores - Local opticians often have great non rx frame selections and personalized service.
• Department stores - Big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Kohl’s have optical departments with fashion eyewear.
• Boutiques and brands - Sunglass Hut, Oakley, Ray-Ban and other brands have their own stores with non rx options.

Be sure to compare selection, pricing, and service when choosing where to purchase non prescription eyewear. Online retailers offer convenience and lower prices, but lack personalized service. Local opticians provide one-on-one attention but have fewer options. Assessing your priorities will help determine the best source.

Top Brands for Non Prescription Eyewear

Certain brands dominate the non prescription eyewear market. Here are some of the top labels producing fashionable and functional non rx frames and sunglasses:

• Ray-Ban - This iconic sunglass brand offers aviator, wayfarer, and clubmaster styles in non prescription versions.
• Oakley - Known for sporty sunglasses, Oakley offers RX-ready frames with interchangeable lens options.
• Warby Parker - Warby Parker offers trendy decorative frames and sunglasses including its popular “Home Try-On” program.
• Coach - The luxury accessory designer offers fashion-forward frames in whimsical shapes and styles.
• Tom Ford - Tom Ford’s eyewear collection features sleek, high-end decorative frames and sunglasses.
• Maui Jim - This brand specializes in high-clarity polarized sunglasses to filter glare.
• Foster Grant - Known for classic styling on decorative frames and sunglasses at affordable price points.
• Felix Gray - Felix Gray specializes in computer glasses that block high-energy blue light from digital screens.

Trying popular, well-reviewed brand name non prescription eyewear ensures you’re getting fashionable, comfortable, and high-functioning frames and sunglasses.

Non Prescription Reading Glasses

Reading glasses are non prescription eyeglasses with magnifying lenses to help compensate for age-related near vision problems, like presbyopia. Rather than being measured and custom made, readers offer set powers, typically ranging from +1.00 to +3.50.

Some benefits of non prescription reading eyewear include:

• Immediate vision correction for close work like reading
• Inexpensive solution for mild near vision impairment
• Multiple strengths to adjust power as vision changes
• Wide selection of frame shapes and colors
• Available without an eye exam or prescription

Reading glasses can be purchased from optical shops, drugstores, grocery stores, and online retailers. Popular options include Foster Grant, Pixel Eyewear, and ThinOptics.

It’s best to get an eye exam periodically, even if using over-the-counter reading glasses. An optometrist can assess your overall eye health, detect any underlying issues, and provide a customized prescription if necessary.

Benefits of Non Prescription Eyewear

There are many potential benefits to non prescription frames and eyewear:

• Less expensive than prescription eyewear
• Instantly boost your style and look fashionable
• Express your personality through unique or trendy frames
• Protect eyes from debris, particles, and glare
• Shield eyes from UV radiation
• Reduce squinting and eyestrain in bright or sunny conditions
• Magnify text and provide clearer near vision (with readers)
• Alleviate symptoms of digital eye strain (with computer glasses)
• Can be purchased without visiting an eye doctor

Non prescription eyewear serves many purposes beyond just correcting vision. They offer visual support, eye protection, and a way to complete your look.

Precautions When Wearing Non Rx Eyewear

While fashion frames and sunglasses don’t require a prescription, it’s important to take some necessary precautions:

• Don’t wear non rx eyewear as a substitute for necessary prescription glasses or contacts - they won’t correct refractive errors like nearsightedness.
• Avoid wearing non prescription reading glasses full-time, as this can lead to eye strain and headaches.
• Check that decorative frames and sunglass lenses offer 100% UV protection.
• Set a reasonable maximum wearing time per day for reading glasses and computer eyewear to avoid eye fatigue.
• See an optometrist if you experience any eye discomfort or changes in vision while using non prescription eyewear.

With sensible use, non prescription frames can be a fashionable, inexpensive, and practical addition to your eyewear collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are non prescription glasses bad for your eyes?

No, non prescription glasses are generally not bad for your eyes if worn appropriately. They can provide eye protection benefits. However, it's important not to wear non rx reading glasses in place of needed prescription eyewear, as this could strain eyes.

Do non prescription glasses work?

Non prescription glasses don't correct vision conditions like nearsightedness. But they can magnify text to help with age-related near vision issues. Tinted non rx sunglasses also reduce glare and UV exposure. Purely decorative frames don't enhance vision but allow you to complete a desired look.

Can you get non prescription blue light glasses?

Yes, you can purchase non prescription computer glasses or blue light blocking glasses online and at many retailers. These feature special lenses that filter out high energy visible (HEV) blue light emitted from digital screens to alleviate eye strain.

Do non prescription reading glasses hurt your eyes?

Non prescription reading glasses are designed to be worn only for short periods of close work, not full-time. Wearing over-the-counter readers too frequently or for too long can lead to eye fatigue or headaches. Set a reasonable maximum daily wearing limit based on use.

Should you get an eye exam before buying non prescription glasses?

It's not mandatory, but it's recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam periodically, even if you only use non prescription eyewear. An optometrist can evaluate your vision needs, eye health, and if you require prescription lenses for correction.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.