Wearing a face mask can be both frustrating and challenging for those who wear glasses, but there are a number of ways to make coverings more comfortable and stop them fogging up.

Earlier this month, the government announced that face masks must be worn on public transport, in all shops, retail settings and shopping centres much to the annoyance of glasses wearers but we have the perfect hacks for you to help combat your lenses steaming up.

It’s All About The Fit

First and foremost, the key to stopping glasses fogging up whilst wearing a mask is to make sure you have a snug fit. The covering should fit tightly around your nose and cheeks with no gaps as it reduces the amount of warm air escaping, which causes condensation to build up. For a better fit, consider investing in a reusable mask with a moldable metal strip around the nose. 

Upgrade Your Specs

If you’re due an eye test, it might be worth enquiring about anti-fog style glasses. It could be a hassle-free answer buying lenses with an anti-fog coating which will help with more than just a face covering. 

Wearing a face mask can be both frustrating and challenging for those who wear glasses

Wash Your Lens With Soapy Water

A simple method to help combat your lenses fogging up is to wash your glasses with soapy water and leave to air dry. This technique leaves a thin film that reduces surface tension preventing water molecules from forming a foggy layer. Alternatively, you could wipe your lens with an anti-fogging solution. 

Seal It

If you struggle to get a facemask to fit securely on your face with a pair of glasses, try sealing the mask to your face by sticking a small strip of double-sided tape across the bridge of your nose before fitting the mask. 

Adjust Your Glasses

Try pulling your spectacles up over your mask and sit your glasses on top of it to block any air from escaping. Or you could try to push your glasses up higher on your nose to allow more air to circulate and help prevent them steaming up. 

And don’t forget these dos and don’ts of wearing a facemask. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), a facemask should be secured with ties or ear loops and allow breathing without restriction. The covering should fit snugly against the side of the face and cover the mouth, nose with no gaps.

It is also important to note; individuals should never reuse single-use masks, touch the front of the mask or their mouth, nose or eyes when removing the face masks. They should wash their hands immediately after taking it off or use an alcohol-based hand rub.