Eyeglasses are designed to correct vision problems. Today a number of materials are used in the manufacturing of eyeglasses, making them more lightweight and durable than ever before. Despite these advances, however, wearing eyeglasses has a number of disadvantages to choosing contact lenses. Eyeglasses may inhibit your favorite activities, require frequent cleaning and are costly.
Limit Activities
Eyeglasses can limit certain activities. For example, running, aerobics and other physical activities can be difficult and even dangerous when wearing eyeglasses. Sweat and movement can cause glasses to fall and break. Eyeglasses are unsuitable for some occupations, such as a firefighter or emergency medical technician.
Obstruct Your View
The frames of glasses can obstruct your view, making it difficult to see things that are happening around you. Small or dark frames can make it appear as though everything you look at is framed, forcing you to remove your glasses. Depending on the shape of the frames and lenses you choose, glasses may not cover your peripheral vision, making it distorted or fuzzy.
Affect Vision
Though designed to improve vision, many aspects of wearing eyeglasses can actually impair vision. Many eyeglass lenses cause glare and halo effects in light; even those designed to be anti-glare will glare once they are scratched or if they are dirty. Glare is especially hazardous when driving at night or in the rain. Vision can also be impaired while wearing glasses due to weather conditions. Warm humid air can cause glasses to fog, and rain and snow cause spots and smears that can make it difficult to see.
Cleaning
Rain, dust and other debris can make glasses dirty; most people who wear eyeglasses find that they need cleaning several times a day. Many types of eyeglass lenses are fragile and require a special cleaning cloth and cleaner to avoid scratching and smearing. Fabrics excluding cotton can cause scratching, and rough materials like paper towels and harsh window cleaners can cause irreparable damage to lenses.
Affect Your Appearance
While there are a number of stylish eyewear options available, many individuals do not wish to change their appearance by wearing eyeglasses. Children may be teased for wearing eyeglasses.
Cost and Durability
Depending on your prescription, eyeglasses can be an expensive investment, especially when compared to contacts. Though modern eyeglasses are more durable than ever, glasses can easily be bent or broken, necessitating a replacement. In addition, many people require several pairs of glasses; one pair for reading, another for driving, for example.