You can find your glasses frame size by reading the measurements on your current pair of glasses or by taking measurements of your face at home. The three numbers printed on the inside of the frame tell you the size of your glasses. They are the lens width, bridge width and temple length, all measured in millimeters (mm) and usually separated by dashes.
Since every pair of glasses is different, you may find these measurements in different locations. They're commonly printed on the inside of the temple arm, the nose bridge or the earpiece. You can also measure these three dimensions yourself using a millimeter ruler. This guide will show you how to do both, ensuring your next pair of glasses looks and feels great.
How to Measure Your Current Glasses
If the numbers have faded from your current frames, you can measure your frame with a flexible measuring tape or ruler. Here are the key places to measure:
Lens Width
The lens width is the horizontal measurement of one lens at its widest point. Common widths are from 40mm to 60mm. This measurement determines the field of vision in each eye and has the biggest impact on the overall style and scale of your frames.
To determine this measurement, use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the lens horizontally at its widest point, not including the frame.
Bridge Width
The bridge width is the distance between the two lenses, where the frame sits on your nose. This measurement is the shortest distance between the lenses, often from 14mm to 24mm. This is a critical measurement for comfort, as a bridge that is too tight will pinch, and one that's too loose will cause the glasses to slip down your face.
You can find your glasses' bridge width by using your ruler and measuring the distance between the inner edges of the two lenses across your nose bridge.
Temple Length
Temple length is the “arm” measurement on your glasses, and it's often between 120mm and 150mm long. This measurement starts at the hinge screw attached to the frame, all the way to the tip that goes behind the ear.
A correct temple length ensures the glasses sit securely without putting pressure on the back of your ear. To determine temple length, place your ruler on the hinge screw and measure straight down the arm to the very tip, including the curved part.
Frame Width
The frame width is the total horizontal measurement of the front of the frames. This measurement is not always printed on the frame, but you'll need it to make sure the glasses are the right scale for your face.
To find it, measure horizontally across the entire front of the frames at their widest point, from the farthest point on the left to the farthest point on the right, including any hinges or decorative elements. The frame width should ideally be just slightly wider than your face, leaving about a finger's width of space between the arm of the temple and your head.
Lens Height
Lens height is another measurement you may not find printed on your glasses. It typically ranges from 32mm to 38mm. You can find it by measuring the vertical distance across the front of the lens at its tallest point, excluding the surrounding frame rim. This is especially important if you wear progressive or bifocal lenses, as there needs to be enough vertical space for the different prescription fields.
How to Find Your Glasses Size Without a Current Pair
If you don't have a current pair of glasses to reference, you can measure your face or estimate your frame size using a mirror and a standard credit card. Follow these tips to know what size glasses frame to buy.
Measure Your Face
Here's how to measure your face to choose the best-fitting glasses:
1. Get a millimeter ruler: Hold a ruler to your face horizontally, and just below your eyes.
2. Measure temple-to-temple: Measure the distance across the widest part of your face.
3. Compare sizes: If the widest part of your face measures under 130mm, choose a small pair of glasses. If it measures from 130 to 140, choose a medium pair. If it measures over 140mm, choose a large pair of glasses.
Estimate With a Credit Card
If you don't have a ruler handy, you can estimate your frame size with a credit card, since it's roughly the same as a standard-size lens width. Face the mirror, holding the credit card horizontally, with the long edge against the bridge of your nose and the short edge under your eye.
Look at where the outer edge of the credit card ends in relation to your eye. If it goes farther than your eye, a small or extra-small frame size would suit you. If the card's edge ends just at the end of your eye, you should look for a medium frame size. If the card's edge ends before the end of your eyes, look for a large or extra-large frame size.
How to Find the Right-Size Glasses for Your Face Shape
While knowing your face shape can help you choose a flattering style, it can also correlate with your general face width, which helps you find the right frame size. Here's how to determine the right glasses size based on your face shape:
· Square face: A square face has more angular lines with a broader forehead and a strong jaw. To soften these features, look for round or oval-shaped frames. Since square faces are often wider, medium to large frame widths are a great starting point.
· Round face: Round faces have soft curves with similar width and length. To add definition, choose angular, rectangular or geometric frames wider than they are tall. Look for frames just slightly wider than your face to create a longer, more slender appearance.
· Oval face: An oval face is well-proportioned with a narrow forehead and jaw. Most frame shapes work well, but it's best to choose frames that are at least as wide as the broadest part of your face. Avoid frames that are overly narrow or too large, which can unbalance your natural symmetry.
· Heart-shaped face: A heart-shaped face is widest across the forehead and tapers down to a narrow chin. Frames wider at the bottom than the top, like cat-eye or aviator glasses, will balance your features. Be careful not to choose a frame width wider than your forehead.
Troubleshooting Common Frame Fit Issues
While knowing the right numbers is an important first step, how your glasses feel matters the most. Here's how to fix common fit issues:
Your Glasses Constantly Slip Down
If your glasses are slipping, the bridge width is too large for your nose. The frames can't properly grip the sides of your nose, causing them to slide down. You can fix this problem by looking for frames with a smaller bridge measurement or having professionals adjust the temple arms to fit more snugly behind your ears.
Your Glasses Feel Too Tight on the Temples
When your glasses feel like they're pinching the sides of your head, the frame width is likely too narrow. This pressure can lead to headaches and discomfort. Choose frames with a larger width, as they'll have a small amount of space between the arms and your head for better comfort.
Your Eyes Aren't Centered in the Lenses
Ideally, you want your pupils centered in the middle of your glass lens. If they aren't, you likely don't have the right lens width or shape that matches your pupillary distance (PD), which can cause vision issues and eyestrain. You can get your PD for free from your doctor, try an online measuring tool or use a ruler at home before ordering glasses to avoid this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions we receive about eyeglass sizes below:
Can I Use My Sunglasses Measurements for Regular Glasses?
It's best to avoid using sunglasses measurements for regular glasses. Sunglasses are usually designed to be larger and sit differently on your face to give you more coverage. Using them to determine your regular glasses size can lead to frames that are too large and an incorrect fit. Always use a well-fitting pair of regular eyeglasses for reference.
How Do I Find the Frame Measurements on Your Website?
You can find measurements for every frame on its product detail page, located in the "Specifications" or "Highlights" tab. You can compare these numbers directly with a pair you already own to ensure a great fit before you buy.
Is Frame Width the Most Important Measurement?
Frame width is very important to determine if the glasses will look proportional and feel comfortable on your head, although all measurements can contribute to a good fit.
Finding the Right Fit for Glasses at Eyemart Express
Knowing your glasses frame size is the secret to a comfortable, perfect fit. Eyemart Express can make it easy to determine your glasses size and find a pair you'll love. You can use this guide to find your measurements or visit us in-store, where our experts can help you find the right fit. Even after choosing your new glasses, we're always available to help and can answer any questions you may have.
Browse our online inventory to purchase the perfect size and style of eyeglasses today. You can also visit us at one of our many locations to meet our team and ensure the best fit.
