The best way to prevent your eyeglasses from fogging up while wearing a mask is to first know why they are fogging. Wearing a mask directs your warm, exhaled air upwards, which then condenses on the cooler surface of the lens. The result is tiny droplets that form on the lens, which scatter the light and reduce the ability of the lens to transmit contrast.
Here are some tips to minimize fogging of your eyeglasses :
Put a tissue inside the top of the mask: If you fold a tissue horizontally and put it between your face and the top of your mask—so it sits over the bridge of your nose— the moisture from your breath will be absorbed by the tissue instead of hitting your glasses.
Buy or make a mask that molds to your nose: Masks that have a flexible wire allow you to mold it around the bridge of your nose, blocking the warm exhaled air from your mouth. For homemade masks use flexible objects like bobby pins, paper clips, twist ties or pipe cleaners to create a closely fitted “nose.” Be sure to fasten/sew them securely so they don’t scratch your face.
If you can pull your mask up higher on your nose, you can use your glasses to seal it and shape it to your face. Just place your glasses right on top of the material that’s over your nose and make sure they don’t slide off. A secure fit will keep the warm air from escaping through the top of the mask.
If you can pull your mask up higher on your nose, you can use your glasses to seal it and shape it to your face. Just place your glasses right on top of the material that’s over your nose and make sure they don’t slide off. A secure fit will keep the warm air from escaping through the top of the mask.
Wash your glasses with soapy water. Then shake off the excess and let them air dry, or gently dry them with a soft tissue. Healthcare practitioners who wear glasses or protective goggles (like surgeons) have done this for decades. This technique leaves a thin film that reduces surface tension that builds up from your breath, causing the water molecules to spread out evenly into a transparent layer that defogs your glasses.
Use a defogging spray. If nothing seems to be working for you, there are wipes and sprays out there that were designed to tackle foggy glasses. There are a number available for purchase online. Snorkelers and competitive swimmers often use these sprays to prevent foggy goggles. But remember: these sprays contain chemicals, so check out the reviews carefully before buying them. Before trying one, make sure the ingredients won’t damage any protective coatings on your lenses or irritate your eyes.
Personally, I've found that creating a good tight seal between the mask and the bridge of your nose works best to prevent fogging of your lenses; so the next time you purchase a mask (medical or home made), make sure it has some kind of adjustable and flexible wire to conform to the bridge of your nose. -Dr. Vu.
The above tips were provided by VersantHealth and Cleveland Eye Clinic.
The above tips were provided by VersantHealth and Cleveland Eye Clinic.