It typically takes two or three days for a person to adjust to new glasses, but sometimes it can take a week or more. Why? That’s a complex question, but it usually comes down to what a person’s eyes are accustomed to. 

Just like new shoes need to be worn in, new glasses need a bit of time before they feel like a natural accessory for your vision. Many people’s eyes won’t adjust right away—and there’s nothing wrong with that.

In this article, we’ll discuss symptoms caused by adjusting to new glasses and why an adjustment period is needed. We’ll also share some tips that may help you get used to new glasses more easily. 

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Why Does It Take So Long To Adjust to New Glasses?

Adapting to your new glasses takes time because your brain and eyes have to adjust to the changes. This can occur if there is a change in prescription (stronger or lower), astigmatism correction, a change in frame size, or you have gotten used to overcompensation for lower visual acuity. Any of these changes from your “normal” vision can feel…well, a bit weird.

During the adjustment period, the brain and eyes are learning to work with your new prescription to give you clearer vision. If you’re wearing glasses for the first time or there’s been a significant change in your prescription, your eyes might take even longer (as in, a week plus) to adjust. You may also experience a longer adjustment period if you are trying out progressives for the first time. 

However, if you’re still experiencing discomfort after 3–4 weeks with your new glasses, it would be best to contact your optometrist to determine the next steps. At Warby Parker we have a 30 day return policy in case your glasses don’t work out for you!

What Are the Symptoms of Adjusting to New Glasses?

After putting on new eyeglasses, it’s typical for many people to experience some mild disorientation or other side effects. Here’s a list of common issues associated with getting used to new glasses: 

  • Difficulty focusing through your new prescription
  • Mild visual distortions, such as a “fishbowl effect” that makes the edges of your field of vision slightly bent  
  • Eye strain
  • Difficulties with depth perception
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea
  • Headaches

These symptoms are typically mild and improve as you adjust. If your new glasses are making you dizzy long-term, or if any of these symptoms are continually disrupting your day-to-day tasks, see an optometrist.

Why Would New Glasses Feel Weird if the Prescription Is the Same?

Sometimes, new glasses with the same prescription still feel different or odd when you first wear them. This comes down to the lens type and the frame. The lenses might have a slightly different alignment than what you’re used to, and the frame style might feel unfamiliar if your last frames were drastically different. Additionally, going from small to large frames may cause discomfort initially.

But you shouldn’t experience lasting trouble with new glasses that retain your old prescription. Consult with your optometrist or optician if the weirdness persists.  

How To Get Used to Wearing New Glasses Fast

There’s no quick fix for adjusting to new glasses—it all depends on how soon your eyes and brain can adapt. While the adjustment period can be frustrating, we’ve compiled some strategies that may make the process more manageable. 

Get a Frame That Fits

Your glasses should fit just right on your face, not too tight or too loose. When you buy frames, an optician may take measurements that ensure a proper fit.

Having fitted glasses impacts not only your comfort but how well you see. The optical centers of the lenses should always align with your eyes (your pupils, in particular). If the lenses are misaligned, that can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even double or blurred vision. For certain prescriptions a smaller frame size would help you adapt to your new glasses faster.

Gradually Increase the Amount of Time You Wear Your Glasses

Because it takes a while for your eyes to adjust to a new prescription, it’s not always the best idea to wear glasses all day when you first get them. Instead, try to increase the amount of time you wear them little by little each day. 

Start with simple tasks, like watching tv. Once you feel comfortable, move on to visually demanding tasks, such as driving. You may only keep your glasses on for a couple of hours a day at first, then slowly work up to all-day wear.

Wear Your Glasses Consistently

You should wear your eyeglasses regularly to make the adjustment period more seamless. Being inconsistent makes it harder for your eyes to adjust to the prescription. So, put on your glasses every day for at least an hour or more.

Stop Wearing Old Glasses

We know—your old frames feel like a familiar friend. However, it’s never a good idea to wear your old eyeglasses with an outdated prescription, even if you’re missing them. Switching between new and old glasses disrupts the adjustment process and will confuse your eyes and brain, potentially lengthening the amount of time they’ll need to get used to your new lenses.

Recheck Your Prescription if Needed

Adjusting to new glasses shouldn’t take longer than a few weeks if you haven’t had a large change in your prescription. If you continue to struggle with your glasses for much longer than that, it could be because of a prescription error. See your eye doctor as soon as possible—they can check the lenses to make sure they’re the right prescription for you.

Getting Used to New Glasses Just Takes a Bit of Time 

Adjusting to new glasses might be a trifle annoying, but there’s no need to panic—eventually, your eyes should feel right at home behind your lenses. Remember, most of the time, getting used to new glasses only takes a few days. 

As always, you should reach out to your optometrist if you’re having ongoing issues with your eyewear. New glasses might make you feel dizzy with excitement, but after the adjustment period, they shouldn’t make you dizzy otherwise! 

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