Glasses are like a good pair of jeans: They must fit well to look good. Frames that are too wide or too loose will not fit properly, resulting in poor vision and discomfort.

And, just like shopping for jeans, knowing what to look for is the key to that perfect pair.

Here are the four key tips to help you find a well-fitting pair of glasses.

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Frame width

The first measurement to consider is frame width. Just like purchasing a pair of jeans, we need to know what size to start with. . Your frame width is the distance (in millimeters) from one ear to another.. This size is important for two reasons.

1. It helps ensure that the frames will fit you comfortably. Frames that are too wide might slip off your face when you move; frames that are too tight may cause headaches.
2. Frame width can also help ensure the glasses look good in proportion to your face shape and size.

To find your frame width, use our online face-scanning tool. Once we know your frame width, we’ll show you personalized recommendations for frames that fit your face well. Plus, when you click on a particular set of frames in our online store, we’ll tell you whether these frames will fit your face width. Pretty cool, right?
(Alternatively, if you have a great fitting pair already, look inside the frame for a number from 49-61. This is normally on the arms or “temples.” This is known as the eye size. )

You can also search our online store by face width. To do so:

• Go to the Eyeglasses page on our website or mobile app
• Select the “All Filters” button
• Select the plus sign next to “Size” to expand the selection
• Check the “Custom” box
• Under “Frame Width,” use the sliders to narrow the results based on the range displayed on your profile page
• The store results will automatically adjust to match your criteria

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Frame Height

Are your glasses for single-vision correction or multifocal, including bifocal, trifocal, and progressive vision correction? The frame height — the distance from the top of the frames near your browline to the bottom part near your cheeks — is particularly important if you wear multifocal lenses. The shorter the frame, the more these shared areas are reduced in space. What can result from this is limited vision for all areas.
Multifocal lenses divide the vision into different zones. For instance, bifocal lenses allow you to see better up close for reading and distance. The lower half of the lens corrects for up-close vision, while the upper half corrects for distance vision.

In trifocals, including progressives, the lens corrects for three vision needs. In that case, the lenses — and therefore frames — need to be tall enough so there’s room for all three lens types.

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Prescription Strength

Prescription strength is another factor that affects frame selection. If you need strong correction, the lenses will be slightly thicker — even with the polycarbonate material that we use for all our lenses. (All XP Health lenses are made using polycarbonate material at no additional cost to you.)

Thicker lenses generally work better in plastic frames. Because plastic frames are slightly thicker, the thickness will be more hidden.  In contrast, metal frames are typically thinner, so thicker lenses may extend past the width of the frame. (If you have a +4.00/-4.00 anywhere on your prescription, we highly recommend the high index lens material to ensure the thinnest and lightest start.)

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Color and Style Matter, Too

Now that you know the right measurements, check out our tips for choosing the right frame shape, color, and material.

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Still Can’t Decide?

Our concierge service can help you select the best glasses for your needs. Call or text us at (888) 974-3020, email us at concierge@xphealth.co, or chat with us online.