Wearing a mask is a simple but vital precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it presents a certain challenge to those who wear glasses, which are known for fogging up when worn at the same time as a mask. If this describes you, it may be helpful to learn how to prevent fogging without complicating the time you spend away from home. 

Why Does a Face Mask Cause Glasses to Fog Up? 

Condensation accumulates on a cool surface when combined with warm air. Without a mask, your breath is expelled directly outward. However, the cloth of a mask directs some of your breath upward. The warmth of your breath hits your glasses and causes an immediate condensation effect, spreading fog across the lenses. 

How Can You Prevent Fogging?

Try pulling your mask up as high as possible and setting your glasses over it. This position will keep the lenses out of reach of your breath. Failing that, fold a square of tissue and place it beneath the nose bridge of your mask so that your breath is absorbed into it before escaping.  

If your eyeglasses don’t have a specialized coating over them, you can use dish soap to create a film that blocks fog. Place a drop of soap on a microfiber cloth and rub it all over the lenses. Once it dries, you're ready to go.

There’s also the option of switching to a different kind of mask. Look for a model with a nose bridge, which is a plastic strip designed to fit snugly but comfortably over your nose. Your breath will be less likely to seep through the top edges of your mask. If you don’t have easy access to a mask with a nose bridge, try sticking it to your skin with medical or sports tape. 

 
For more advice about keeping fog off your glasses, contact Eye Care Optical in Montgomery, OH. With 40 years of expertise in vision care and prescriptions, they offer a wide array of eyeglass frames and will gladly help you feel comfortable with yours. They’ll also provide extensive knowledge about their stock if you’re ready to try something new. Schedule an appointment today by calling (513) 731-6587 or learn more about the company online.