Eyeglasses, although they give you better vision, can be quite taxing. Not only do you have to make sure they are stored properly when you aren’t wearing them, but you also have to clean them regularly. But sometimes, your frames may start to turn white.
Frames will turn white over time. This is inevitable. It results from white oxidation, but you can fix this and prevent this from happening for long periods. It is a simple process, and you can do this at home without a professional’s help.
White oxidation can be annoying, but it isn’t forever. Here is everything you need to know about white oxidation and how to remove it.
Why Are Frames Turning White?
Your frames are turning white due to cloudy or white oxidation. What happens is you will gain surface contaminants on the plastic of your frames. Normally your frames would remain the same color, but the contaminants react with the sunlight and change the material white.
The contaminants oxidize, which makes that cloudy or white texture on the surface of your frames. It can cause the plastic to become pitted and brittle. You will want to catch the oxidation early on before the plastic becomes brittle. Once the plastic is brittle, you will need to replace your glasses.
How To Remove Cloudy Oxidation
If your frames haven’t become too brittle, there are many remedies to help reduce or remove the white on your frames. Here are a few to choose from:
- Use Rain X Restorer Kit.
- Buff and shine.
- Brush with toothpaste.
- Use melamine foam.
- Send it to a professional.
Use Rain X Restorer Kit
A Rain X Headlight Restorer kit can be quite useful when trying to remove the white oxidation and restore the vitality of the frames. Here are the steps to using this product:
- First, read the label for any special instructions (like wearing gloves).
- Apply some of the Rain X Restorer to the area that has been oxidized. Use a microfiber towel for the best results.
- Use the lubricant fluid of the restorer.
- If you still see some oxidation residue, apply some more lubricant.
- Finish off with the sealant once you don’t see any more oxidation.
Remember to try and not to get any of these chemicals on the lenses. These chemicals can damage your prescription. It is best to use a little each time until each step is complete.
Buff And Shine
You can use a nail buffer to buff out the oxidation. The nail buffer is best because you can put it at a lower setting than using a power tool. You don’t want to use too powerful of a tool and damage your frames beyond repair.
Start with a lower polishing top and then choose higher depending on the oxidation level and what you think is best. Be careful not to scratch the lenses of your glasses. This is when you should take your time and work slowly over your frames, so you don’t cause any irreparable damage.
After you have buffed out the oxidation, you can now add the shine. You can finish it with different types of shines:
- Wax
- Polishing shine
- Lanolin
There are many other types of finishes you can use, but these are easy ones to find. You can even use the Rain X sealant in combination with the buff and shine method.
Brush With Toothpaste
Using toothpaste to buff out oxidation is common practice with cloudy headlights and can be used for the frames of your glasses as well. You will brush the frames with toothpaste until the oxidation no longer remains.
Wipe away all remaining toothpaste from your glasses. Again, try not to brush the lenses as they will create scratches. It is best to finish off this method with a shine to seal the plastic and ensure that your frames last longer.
Use Melamine Foam
Melamine foam is like a sandpaper sponge that will get rid of oxidation. A popular brand that you can use is the Magic Eraser found in your local stores. Buff the frames with this until the oxidation has disappeared.
You will want to finish the process with a sealant or shine to protect the frames from future wear and tear. Remember, this will only make your frames last longer but will not protect them from oxidation completely.
Send It To A Professional
In many major cities, you may find a professional that will do all the hard work for you. You can search online for a professional to repair your glasses. If you are unsure of any professionals nearby, contact your optometrist. They will most likely recommend you to someone.
Outro
White oxidation is a common part of wear and tear to your frames, but you can do your best to restore or prevent this from happening as long as possible. These methods will help you do just that so that you don’t have to spend money on new glasses sooner than later.
