Can You Reglaze Any Glasses? Frames That Work (and Ones That Don’t)
If your lenses are scratched, outdated, or your prescription has changed, reglazing your glasses can be a smart alternative to buying a brand-new pair. But one of the most common questions we hear at The Glasses Guys is:
Can you reglaze any glasses?
The short answer is: most glasses can be reglazed — but not all. In this guide, we’ll explain which frames work well for reglazing, which ones don’t, and how to tell if your glasses are suitable.
What Does Reglazing Glasses Mean?
Reglazing glasses simply means replacing the lenses in your existing frames while keeping the frames themselves.
This is ideal if:
Your prescription has changed
Your lenses are scratched or damaged
You want upgraded coatings (anti-glare, blue light, thinner lenses)
You love your frames and don’t want to replace them
It’s a cost-effective and more sustainable option compared to buying new glasses.
Frames That Usually Can Be Reglazed
Acetate & Plastic Frames
These are the most suitable for reglazing.
✔ Strong and flexible
✔ Easy to remove and refit lenses
✔ Ideal for most prescriptions
If your frames feel solid and haven’t become brittle with age, they’re almost certainly suitable for reglazing.
Metal Frames
Most metal frames can also be reglazed without issue.
✔ Durable
✔ Adjustable
✔ Works well for single vision and varifocal lenses
As long as the frame isn’t bent, cracked, or corroded, reglazing is usually straightforward.
Designer & Premium Frames
High-quality frames are often perfect candidates for reglazing.
✔ Better materials
✔ Stronger construction
✔ Designed for multiple lens changes
If you’ve invested in good frames, reglazing allows you to extend their life and get more value from them.
👉 Not sure if your glasses can be reglazed?
Send us a photo of your frames and we’ll check them for free.
Frames That May Not Be Suitable for Reglazing
Very Old or Brittle Frames
Plastic frames can become fragile over time.
⚠ Risk of cracking during lens removal
⚠ Especially common with frames over 10–15 years old
We always assess these carefully before proceeding.
Rimless or Semi-Rimless Frames
These frames can be reglazed, but they require extra care.
⚠ Drilled holes may no longer align perfectly
⚠ Higher risk if the frame has wear or stress marks
They’re not automatically unsuitable — just more case-specific.
Damaged or Warped Frames
Frames with existing damage are often not safe to reglaze.
❌ Cracks
❌ Severe bends
❌ Loose or broken joints
In these cases, new frames may be the better option.
How to Tell If Your Glasses Can Be Reglazed
If you’re unsure, here’s a quick checklist:
Do the frames feel solid?
Are there no visible cracks?
Do the lenses sit securely?
Is the frame shape unchanged?
If you’re still not certain, the easiest option is to send us a photo — we’ll check your frames and let you know honestly if reglazing is suitable.
When Buying New Glasses Makes More Sense
While reglazing is often the best option, new frames may be better if:
Your frames are uncomfortable or ill-fitting
The style no longer suits you
The frame is damaged or worn out
We’ll always tell you if reglazing isn’t the right choice — no pressure, no upselling.
Reglazing with Confidence
Reglazing your glasses is a simple way to refresh your eyewear, save money, and reduce waste — as long as your frames are suitable.
At The Glasses Guys, we carefully assess every pair and only proceed when we’re confident we can deliver a perfect result.
