While the Government’s roadmap points at a way out of coronavirus, the reality is that certain measures such as social distancing and the wearing of face coverings are likely to be with us for a while yet.
Face masks have become the latest accessory to be added to the ‘keys, wallet, phone’ checklist we all have when leaving the house and are now part and parcel of everyday life but there’s one question that remains for all spectacle wearers – how do you stop your glasses fogging up while wearing a face mask?
With face coverings mandatory in shops and supermarkets, pubs, entertainment venues and many workplaces there’s no escaping the fact we’ll be wearing them for months to come so it makes sense to find a way that suits each of us and makes them as comfortable as possible.
The unwanted ‘fogging’ that glasses wearers have to endure has caused a significant problem over the past year, with many left struggling to see through the mist.
This fogging is caused by warm breath rising up towards your eyes having been trapped by your face mask. As the tiny droplets of warm vapour hit the cold surfaces of your lenses, your glasses will steam up.
So how do we keep this to a minimum and try to prevent it happening at all?
Thankfully the TK&S team is here to share a few tips on how to avoid your glasses fogging up whilst wearing a mask.
Warm, soapy water
The old-fashioned remedies are often the best and it’s no different here. Washing your lenses in warm soapy water before you apply your face mask will help to eliminate any excess moisture that may already be on your glasses. Dry them off with a microfibre cloth supplied with your glasses.
Tape the mask
For a ‘belt and braces’ approach, try placing some sports tape on the bridge of your nose and cheeks. Apply the top of the face mask over the tape and press down firmly. This will reduce the airflow rising up towards your glasses. No matter how tempting or convenient it may seem, don’t use duct tape on your skin as this may cause discomfort and injury. Use the proper stuff.
Secure your face mask well
To make the most of your facemask and ensure maximum protection for yourself and others, you will want to make sure it fits your face well and isn’t hanging loose. A poorly secured mask will encourage airflow to rise towards your glasses – cue the fogging. If yours is too loose try adjusting the length of the string by twisting it once and then placing it around your ears.
De-fogging products
Anti-fogging products are now available and we have some in stock at the practice. These can come in the form of spray, waxes, and gel, so you have various options to choose from. One application isn’t a permanent solution, but it can help prevent fogging if you’re nipping to the shops or hopping on public transport.
Consider contact lenses
Contact lenses eliminate all the problems associated with fogging for glasses wearers. The British Contact Lens Association has launched a #StopTheSteam campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of contact lenses during COVID-19 and lenses remain a safe option for anyone needing vision correction. Speak to one of the team to find out more about the options available to you.
