The start of a new year is full of hope and resolutions. But it’s also a time where we experience a financial ‘hangover’ after maxing out on the festive season.
Although we may be looking for ways to cut costs, our eye health should not be compromised.
The good news is that looking after your eyesight and looking good in your specs doesn’t have to break the bank.
At Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, we have more than 85 years of experience, here we explain how you can prioritise your eye health and still keep your style fresh without overspending.
Simple and Free Ways to Keep Your Eyes Healthy
- Give your eyes regular breaks from screens by using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps to reduce digital eye strain that so many of us experience from increased screen time.
- Protect your eyes outdoors. Even in winter, UV rays can damage your eyes. If you already own sunglasses, make sure you’re wearing them on bright days. Squinting in bright light can also contribute to headaches and eye fatigue.
- Get enough sleep. Your eyes need rest just like the rest of your body. Aim for 7-8 hours to help your eyes recover and stay healthy. Tired eyes are more prone to irritation and strain.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry eyes, which can be particularly troublesome during winter when the central heating is on full blast.
Smart Spending on Eye Care
- Don’t skip your eye test. Many people put off eye examinations when budgets are tight, but this is a false economy. Regular eye tests can detect early signs of serious conditions like glaucoma, diabetes or high blood pressure.
At Scrivens, NHS-funded eye tests are available for eligible patients, and private tests are competitively priced.
- Consider value ranges. You don’t need designer frames to look fantastic. Many opticians, including Scrivens, offer stylish frames at various price points. A well-fitted, flattering pair of budget frames will look better than expensive frames that don’t suit your face shape.
Three Ways To Look Great Without Splashing Out
- Know your face shape. Understanding whether you have a round, oval, square, or heart-shaped face helps you choose frames that complement your features. Our Face Shape Guide offers great tips, but also ask your optician team for guidance, they’re experts at matching frames to faces.
- Choose classic styles. Timeless shapes like wayfarers, aviators and rounded frames never go out of fashion. Trendy styles might seem appealing, but classics ensure you’ll love your specs for years to come, making them a smarter, long-term investment.
- Think about versatility. Choose frames in neutral colours that work with your entire wardrobe. Tortoiseshell, black and metallic tones are universally flattering and practical for everyday wear.
Make Your Current Specs Last Longer
Already have glasses? Make them work harder for you:
- Clean them properly with a microfibre cloth and lens cleaner, not your shirt
- Store them in a protective case when not wearing them
- Have them adjusted regularly at your optician to maintain a comfortable fit
- Ask about replacing nose pads or screws if they’re worn, it’s usually inexpensive and ensures glasses feel like new
When to Invest in Your Vision
While budget-consciousness is sensible, some things are worth prioritising. If you’re experiencing headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, or difficulty seeing at night, don’t delay booking an eye test. Struggling with an outdated prescription affects your quality of life and can even be dangerous when driving.
Similarly, if your current glasses are damaged or ill-fitting, it’s worth replacing them sooner rather than later. Poorly fitted frames can cause discomfort, headaches and even affect how well you see through the lenses.
Open Your Eyes To Smart Choices
January doesn’t have to mean compromising on your eye health or style. With smart choices, adopting good habits and expert advice from your optician, you can keep your vision sharp and look great doing it. Your eyes are worth the investment and your local Scrivens branch is here to offer help and advice.
