How to tighten your glasses: safe methods & optician tips

At Visionet (qualified opticians – store & workshop in western France), all frames are pre-adjusted before shipping. In most cases, they are ready to wear.
If your glasses slide, feel too tight or lack stability after some use, here are safe adjustments you can do yourself — and when it’s best to contact us.

Need quick guidance? Please contact us: our opticians can advise you step by step (and recommend the best option for your frame).

1 Why do your glasses slip?

Common causes:

Temples too open / too smooth
Natural wear: frame widens, screws loosen
Sweat / oily skin: reduced grip

A good adjustment balances nose support and behind-the-ear hold, without pressure points.

2 Quick solutions (no frame modification)

Available on request from our opticians (please contact us).

Silicone ear hooks

Extra hold

Ideal if your glasses slip mainly when moving: improves grip behind the ear.

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Silicone nose pads / adhesive nose patches

Grip & comfort

If your frame slides down your nose, these improve grip and stabilize the fit.

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Cord / elastic strap

Outdoor

Useful outdoors or in motion: helps prevent drops and secures your glasses.

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If you are unsure which option is best for your use (sports, kids, driving, outdoor…), please contact us for advice.

3 How to tighten your glasses: a simple method

1 — Tighten the screws

A small screwdriver is enough:

Gently tighten the hinge screws and (if any) the nose pad screws.

Warning: avoid touching the lenses. A slip can scratch them.

If a screw spins freely or is missing, please contact us: a compatible part may be needed.

2 — Adjust the temples

Metal frames

Cold adjustment with very gentle pressure.
Shape the temple to wrap slightly more behind the ear.

Acetate / plastic frames

Warm with a hair dryer (low/medium) for 10–15s at ~15cm
or warm water (not boiling) for 20–25s

Move temples closer = tighter • Move temples apart = looser. Let cool in position.

Before heating a plastic frame, we recommend contacting us for personalised guidance.

3 — Adjust behind-the-ear tips

Pain / pressure: open the curve slightly.
Slipping: close the curve slightly for better grip.

(On plastic frames: warm the temple slightly, never the lens.)

A good sign: the frame stays stable when you move your head, without pressure points.

4 — Adjust nose pads

If it slips: bring pads slightly closer.
If it pinches: spread pads slightly apart.

Goal: balanced support and a slight forward tilt (pantoscopic angle).

Tip: make small changes and keep left/right symmetrical.

4 Essential precautions

Make only small adjustments.
Never heat the lenses.
Hold the frame close to the area you’re adjusting to avoid twisting it.
Some frames (titanium, rimless, nylor) often require professional tools.

5 Need help?

If needed, please contact our qualified opticians. For a quick diagnosis, you can also send 3 photos: front, side profile, and top view (to check symmetry and pressure points).

Contact us: Contact us

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FAQ – Glasses adjustment

My glasses feel too tight. What should I do?

Open the temples slightly or reduce the curve behind the ear. If needed, adjust nose pads. If pressure persists, contact us.

My glasses slip. What are the best solutions?

Tighten screws and hinges
Adjust behind-the-ear curve
Adjust nose pads
Add silicone nose pads / adhesive patches
Use silicone ear hooks

If nothing helps, the frame shape may be the issue: we can help you check.

Can I do everything myself?

Yes for simple adjustments. For titanium, rimless, nylor, high prescriptions or very precise fitting, we recommend professional help.

Reminder: stable fit without pain. If you notice localized pressure or the frame twists, stop and contact us.