Prevent Glasses From Fogging When Wearing Your Mask
As face masks become part of everyday life, many of us are aware of the minor inconveniences that come along with them. For example, individuals who wear glasses often complain that their lenses fog up when wearing their face mask. How can you prevent this issue while still protecting your health?
Our team at GW Eye Associates explains how to prevent glasses from fogging when wearing your mask. Drs. Gordon G. Wong and Wildon C. Wong are proud to serve residents of La Jolla, CA, Carmel Valley, CA, San Diego, CA, and surrounding communities.
Why Do My Glasses Fog?
When warm air comes into contact with a cool surface, condensation occurs. That is why your glasses fog up when walking into a building after being in the cold outside air. A similar thing happens when you wear a mask. As your breath escapes, it is directed toward your lenses and causes them to fog.
Ways to Prevent Face Mask Fog
Foggy glasses may not seem like such a big deal. But more than being an inconvenience, foggy glasses make it difficult to see. And since cleaning your glasses involves touching your face, it further increases your risk for COVID and other illnesses.
There are plenty of ways to prevent your glasses from fogging while wearing your mask. Below, we will explore a few recommendations from our doctors.
Buy a Mask with a Nose Bridge
Achieving a proper fit is the quickest way to reduce glasses fog. Some masks come with a built-in nose bridge that forms to your nose and cheeks. This limits the amount of air that escapes and prevents your breath from exiting toward your glasses.
Use Your Glasses to Secure Your Mask
Depending on the type of mask you have, you may be able to secure it in place with the bridge of your glasses. Simply pull the mask up higher on the nose, then place your glasses on top. Make sure that your glasses are secure so they do not fall off.
Use Medical Tape
If you are looking for a quick fix, you can use a piece of sports or medical tape to secure the mask in place. Never use tape that is not intended to be placed on the skin. Additionally, individuals with sensitive skin will want to test the tape first to ensure there is no allergic reaction.
Wash with Soap and Water
Washing your lenses with mild soap and water is an excellent way to keep them clean. But soap also leaves a thin film behind that actually prevents fogging for a time. Try this trick next time you go out and enjoy clearer, fog-free vision.
Apply Defogger
Anti-fogging products can work well on eyeglasses. Just be sure to choose a product that is safe for use on lenses. Defoggers designed for car windows can be too harsh and damage your glasses.
Consider LASIK
Laser eye surgery may seem extreme for preventing foggy lenses. But if you were already considering the procedure, it could be an excellent time to follow through with treatment. LASIK reshapes the cornea and reduces the need for corrective eyewear.
Contact Our Practice to Learn More
Do you have questions about your eyeglasses? Reach out to a member of our team. To schedule an appointment at GW Eye Associates, contact us online or call us at (858) 454-4699.
