Glasses are a style staple for many of us but no one wants to deal with red marks around the nose, breakouts, or other irritation where frames meet skin. Good news: with a few simple habits, you can keep your skin happy and your specs looking sharp! Here’s how to avoid those pesky nose and temple marks, plus top skincare tips for glasses wearers.
Why Do Glasses Cause Red Marks and Breakouts?
Glasses put gentle pressure on the skin, especially on the bridge of your nose and temples. This can block pores, trap oil and dirt, and even cause friction or irritation. If your skin is sensitive, you might notice red marks, brownish spots, or even pimples where your frames sit. Don’t worry, these marks aren’t permanent and can be managed with the right routine.
Top Tips to Prevent Red Marks & Acne from Glasses
- Keep Your Glasses Clean: Wipe your frames daily, especially nose pads and temple arms, to remove oil, makeup, and bacteria. Use a gentle soap and water or special lens wipes.
- Adjust the Fit: Glasses that are too tight will leave deeper marks. Visit your optician for a proper fit, or gently adjust nose pads and arms at home if needed.
- Cleanse and Exfoliate: Wash your face morning and night, paying extra attention to areas under your glasses. Exfoliate 1–2 times a week to keep pores clear, but avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate skin.
- Moisturise: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to create a barrier between your skin and your frames. This helps reduce friction and prevents dryness or redness, especially around the nose and temples.
- Spot Treat Breakouts: If you get pimples where your glasses sit, try an over-the-counter spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. But go easy as too much can dry out your skin.
- Take Glasses Breaks: If possible, remove your glasses for short periods to let your skin breathe (especially at home or during screen time).
- Special Focus: Nose & Temple Care
- Nose Area: Use a gentle cleanser and pat dry before putting on your glasses. Dab a little moisturiser on the bridge to reduce redness. If you notice persistent marks, check your fit or try silicone nose pads for extra comfort.
- Temples: Moisturise the sides of your face and behind your ears where frames rest. Look for frames with softer, flexible arms if you’re prone to marks here.
Extra Tips for Happy Skin & Happy Specs
- Choose makeup formulated for sensitive or acne-prone skin if you wear foundation under your frames.
- Switch up your skincare routine if you notice new irritation because sometimes a lighter or fragrance-free product helps.
- See a dermatologist if you have persistent red marks, thickened skin, or breakouts that don’t clear up.
Glasses are part of your personality so, don’t let skin concerns get in the way! With a few tweaks to your daily routine, you can keep both your skin and your specs in top shape.