What Are Eco-Friendly Glasses?

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Eco-friendly glasses refer to eyewear that has been sourced from sustainable materials. They’re not only better for the environment, but they also tend to be more durable than other types of eyeglasses. When all eyes are on the environment, it’s nice to support manufacturers and companies who are doing their part to protect our climate.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Glasses

Eco-friendly glasses may be made from wood or recycled materials. The name is not just due to the materials but also how those materials are fashioned into the final product. A more sustainable means that your glasses use fewer resources (e.g., water, power, etc.) to make than traditional counterparts. Plus, these frames don’t sacrifice style in the name of morality. In fact, you may find that you like the fashions more when compared to something like petroleum-based products.

How to Choose Your Glasses

If you want to make a sustainable choice for glasses, it helps to find a company that lives out its values in its everyday business. There is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing eco-friendly glasses in Portland, OR, though you will want to keep in mind a few factors as you weigh your options:

  • Materials: Some people will prefer to wear plastic that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill. Others might want recycled metal because it’s so lightweight and comfortable.
  • Packaging: Most eco-friendly glasses will have sustainable packaging (e.g., recycled plastic, etc.), but again, it’s worth considering exactly how it’s all wrapped up before you make your final selection.
  • Commitment: Some companies have made environmentalism a part of their brand because it sounds hip. You’ll want to look for companies that have done more than just give their customers lip service.

Eyewear in Portland

A reputable eyewear or glasses store in Portland, OR can help you find a frame that fits your lifestyle as much as it does your core tenets. At Asterix, our staff can help you find a pair that lights up your face without it coming at the expense of the planet. When you visit us, we can tell you more about not only how each frame was made, but why we selected it as a part of our curated collection.

Back to School Tips for Children Who Wear Glasses

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It’s back to school time! If your child wears glasses, then it may be time to get them to the eye doctor in Portland, OR. Making an eye appointment, getting their glasses updated or repaired and giving them the tools they need to keep their glasses safe are ways that you can help your child maintain clear, healthy vision this school year.

Make An Eye Appointment Before Going Back to School

If your child wears glasses, it’s a good idea to see the eye doctor on a regular basis. If it’s been a while since your child last saw the eye doctor, this is a good time to make an appointment.

Schedule an appointment for your child to see the eye doctor before going back to school. Your child’s eye doctor will be able to detect changes in your child’s vision. If there have been changes, the eye doctor will recommend new prescription lenses.

Getting new eyeglasses that match your child’s prescription will help your child see during class, which ultimately can help your child perform in academics and sports. Keep your child’s old glasses as a spare pair in case they lose them during the school year.

Check Your Current Glasses for Scratches, Loose Fit

Even if your child doesn’t need new glasses this school year, it’s still important to check your child’s glasses for scratches, loose fit and other damage. If your child’s glasses have a poor fit, they may need eyewear repair in Portland, OR. Getting your child’s glasses fixed before school starts again is important.

Keep An Extra Glasses Case On Hand

Your child needs a way to keep their glasses safe at school. Get your child an extra glasses case so they’ll have some protection at school in case they need to take off their glasses during an activity.

Protect Your Eyes During Sports

Do you need more information about how you can help your child have a clear, healthy vision this school year? Contact Asterix Eyewear today for answers to your eyeglasses questions.

3 Advantages of Titanium Welds

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If you’re thinking of titanium welds as your eyeglass frame, you should know how it stacks up against standard plastic or metal. We’ll look at three advantages of this material and what you should know about taking care of these types of glasses.

They’re Lightweight

It’s not uncommon for people with glasses to say that they don’t even know when they’re wearing them. This is partially because they’re so accustomed to putting them on and wearing them day in and day out, but it can also have to do with the actual weight of the frames. The lighter they are, the easier they wear. If you want the lightest possible glasses, opt for pure titanium glasses in Portland, OR rather than an alloy, as the addition of other metals will make these glasses slightly heavier.

They’re Durable

Every person who wears glasses has their own habits in terms of how they treat these accessories. Few doctors are interested in whether you roughly pull them on and off or don’t always pack them neatly in a bulletproof case. Titanium is exceptionally tough, though, which means that if you’re not always careful, it can end up costing a lot less than frames you have to replace constantly.

They Stay in Place

If you’re used to pushing your glasses up throughout the day, titanium welds are a great solution. This benefit goes hand-in-hand with the durability of the material, but it’s an important distinction. Even if they bend, they can return to place. This way, you don’t have to worry about losing your vision if you’re chopping veggies or looking down at your radio while driving.

Eyeglass Repair in Portland

Titanium weld glasses are an excellent choice for anyone looking for solid eyeglass frames. However, if you need titanium glass repairs in Portland, OR, it needs to be done by the pros. If the eyeglass technician doesn’t have the tools they need, it can end up ruining the frames. At Asterix eyewear, we do a full assessment of your frames, and we have all of the equipment necessary to perform even the most complex of repairs. Whether you want to save some money on new frames or have a special attachment to them, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

A Look at Why Buying name-Brand Eyeglass Frames Does Matter

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Picking the right frames in Portland, OR is an exceptionally important feat. While many people will gravitate toward cheaper frame styles that are not made by a well-known brand, buying name-brand frames can be a good decision. Take a look at a few reasons you may want to consider investing a little more for a set of name-brand eyeglass frames.

Get Warranties That Protect Against Material Defects

Eyeglasses can be costly if you have to replace them frequently. However, buying name-brand glasses may mean the frame materials are covered by a warranty. The top manufacturers of eyeglass frames tend to offer good warranties that cover defects in their products. This means if something goes wrong with the materials or mechanical components of your frames within a certain amount of time, you may be eligible for a free replacement.

A few defects that could potentially be covered under warranty include:

  • Dysfunctional hinges
  • Broken frames or arms
  • Broken nose pad mounts

Ensure You Are Getting a High-Quality Pair of Glasses

While you may pay a little more for a top-brand pair of glasses, you are actually paying for better quality. Name-brand eyeglass frames are most often manufactured with high-grade materials. For example, the mechanical hinges may be made of stronger materials like titanium versus steel, which can be more durable.

Other signs of high-quality to expect from top-brand eyeglasses include:

  • Flawless material finishes with no clouds, scratches, or flaws
  • High-quality rivets and fasteners
  • Brand name etched or engraved onto the frames

Pick from Among the Most In-Demand Styles

Eyeglass manufacturers all offer a number of styles to make sure patients find a pair of glasses they like. However, if you prefer to stick with eyeglass frame styles that are more in-demand or stylish, be sure to look at models offered by top brands. The best brands pay careful attention to trending styles to make sure they offer the latest options to patients.

Find Your Perfect Glasses in Portland, OR

Are you ready to find the perfect pair of prescription frames in Portland, OR? Be sure to stop in and see us at Asterix Eyewear. Our optical center offers one of the most robust selections of frames, including the top brands.

 

Pros and Cons of Various Eyewear Materials

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When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of glasses, the choice of material is just as important as the style and fit. Different eyewear materials offer varying levels of comfort, durability and aesthetic appeal. Here are the pros and cons of various Portland, OR eyewear materials.

Metal Frames

Metal frames are a classic choice, often chosen for their refined, professional look. They’re considered to be durable and can be easily adjusted for a perfect fit. Some popular metal frame materials include titanium, stainless steel and aluminum.

Pros: Metal frames are generally lightweight and hypoallergenic. Titanium, for example, is super light, extremely durable and safe for those with sensitive skin.

Cons: Metal frames can be more expensive than their plastic counterparts. Also, metal frames often bend out of shape if they aren’t handled carefully.

Plastic Frames

Plastic frames are versatile, offering a wide range of colors, shapes and styles. They’re typically the go-to choice for bold, fashion-forward eyewear.

Pros: Plastic frames are usually lighter and more affordable than metal frames. Materials like acetate allow for a broad spectrum of color possibilities.

Cons: Some types of plastic frames may be less durable, prone to scratches and may not withstand heat very well.

Wood Frames

Wood frames are a unique, eco-friendly eyewear choice. They’re made from a variety of woods, like bamboo, walnut, and even exotic varieties like zebrawood.

Pros: Wood frames are naturally lightweight, comfortable and offer a unique, earthy aesthetic. They’re also eco-friendly, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Cons: Wood frames may be pricier, and they may require more care to prevent damage from moisture and drastic temperature changes.

Rimless Frames

Rimless frames, where the lenses are connected directly to the bridge and temples, offer a minimalist and modern look.

Pros: Rimless frames provide an almost invisible look and are extremely lightweight, making them comfortable for long wear.

Cons: They are typically more fragile than full-frame options and may not be suitable for higher prescription strengths due to lens thickness.

Choosing the right eyewear material depends on your personal style, budget, and lifestyle needs. Whether you prefer the classic appeal of metal, the versatility of plastic, the uniqueness of wood, or the minimalist charm of rimless frames, we’re here to help you find the perfect pair. Visit us today to explore our extensive range of prescription and non-prescription eyewear in Portland, OR.

Benefits of Transition Lenses

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The next time you are ordering eyeglasses in Portland, OR, consider transition lenses. Transition lenses can be put into any frame. They work by changing the tint of your lenses depending on the amount of natural light that you are exposed to. All you need to do is to specify this preference when you are ordering your eyeglass frames. There are so many benefits of transition lenses that they have gained in popularity over the years. Here are some of the benefits that you can expect.

Alternative to Sunglasses

Transition lenses are an economical way to save your vision because they can substitute for sunglasses. Most eye care professionals advise people to wear sunglasses to prevent sun damage to the eyes. However, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, you may also find it helpful to have a pair of prescription eyeglasses that can block UV rays in the form of transition lenses. Instead of buying two pairs of glasses, you could simply have one pair with transition lenses.

Reduced Glare

Aside from blocking UV rays, transition lenses can also decrease glare from the sun. They provide maximum visual comfort, as they automatically adjust to the varying light conditions. You can even use transitional lenses to go to the movies. They will reduce glare from the giant screen and even improve your depth perception.

Reduced Eye Fatigue

Transition lenses are also useful for reducing eye fatigue, enabling you to see well in all lighting conditions. They are perfect for a variety of activities, including working on computers, reading, watching television, shopping and skiing.

Less Discomfort From Blue Light

These lenses are also designed to protect your eyes from blue light, emitted from virtually all digital screens. These lights can lead to headaches and poor sleep patterns, which can cause you to feel tired. You’ll experience much less discomfort with transition lenses.

Lowered Risk of Cataracts

UV light from the sun has been shown to be a contributor to the development of cataracts. Wearing transition lenses helps minimize that risk by blocking UV light. Instead of having to try to remember to put on sunglasses, transition lenses automatically adjust when bright sunlight is present.

If you would like to learn more about transition lenses in Portland, OR, contact us today to book an appointment.

3 Questions to Ask to Help Find the Best Eyeglass Styles for Your Face  

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Choosing an eyeglass frame is sometimes a lot harder than it sounds. With so many styles out there, there’s a lot of room for something to go wrong in the selection process. (Plus, it doesn’t help that sometimes things look great when tried on for a minute at the store, only to sour when you wear them for more than a week.) We’ll look at three questions to ask if you’re looking for frames in Portland, OR that fit the shape of your face as well as your personal sense of fashion.

1. What’s My Face Shape?

Oval faces can sometimes be confused with round shapes, and some people might wonder if they have a hybrid of square and heart-shapes. If you’re working with the right staff, they should be able to give you a clearer picture of what your cheekbones, jawline, width, and length mean for choosing the right pair of frames.

2. What Flatters My Face?

This isn’t an intuitive question as it depends on the shape of your face. In some cases, you’ll choose the opposite shape (e.g.,square glasses for round faces, and round glasses for square faces). With heart-shaped faces, you’ll want to find a shape that copies the shape of your face. Every frame will highlight the angles and contours of the bones in your face. The trick is to do so in a way that complements one another.

3. How Can I Find the Best Selection in Portland?

There are any number of stores that sell eyeglasses in Portland, OR, including major national retailers. However, sometimes it’s better to work with an office that puts a little more effort into not only the types of frames they supply, but also the time it takes to find the right style. Unlike your clothing, you might wear your glasses every day of your life. This alone is worth being picky when it comes to what you put on your face. If you want to feel better about yourself every time you look in the mirror, Aterix is here to give you all the advice you need. We are the premier experts if you want stylish frames in Stumptown.

 

3 Things to Know If You Need Your Eyeglass Frames Repaired

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When you’re searching for eyeglass frame repair in Portland, OR, it helps to know how the process will go. There are a lot of myths that may cause people to spend more to buy a new pair (when there’s no need). For instance, some people may think that repaired frames will be weaker than new ones and that they’ll break easily again, or they may think that the frames will be too discolored to display. We’ll look at the facts about eyeglass repair, so you don’t have to spend a penny more than you have to.

1. Your Frames Can Be Stronger Than They Were

When you choose the right eyewear specialists, your frames may actually be stronger than they were before they broke in the first place. At Asterix Eyewear, our weld is stronger than most manufacturers’ spot welds. Spot welds are a common feature for many mass-produced frames, done to save time but ultimately resulting in frames that are easy to break in certain places. Our frames are welded one at a time, and regardless of whether a laser welder or flame welding, the result is a long-lasting bond.

2. Your Frames Won’t Look Different

Much like paint, it can be difficult to match a frame’s color precisely. However, many people mistakenly believe that the color variation will be so different that the frames will look very obviously repaired. This doesn’t have to be the case though. A quality eyewear repair specialist in Portland, OR will be able to refinish the repair so it’s as close to the original color and texture as possible. You might only be able to spot any kind of changes with the help of a microscope!

3. Not All Stores in Portland, OR Will Repair Your Glasses

For anything more than simple fixes, like popping back in a lens, many optical stores offer no repair services whatsoever. If you want a professional who will be able to handle any repair, Asterix is here to help. There are too many people out there who end up buying new frames when their old ones can be as good as new again. Contact us today to learn more about our strong welds and expert repairs.

Why Eyeglasses May Be a Better Choice Than Contact Lenses

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Eyeglasses are a wonderful solution for correcting your vision. Not only can you find trendy, attractive frames that flatter your face, but eyeglasses are usually an easier, more affordable option than contact lenses. Youroptician in Portland, OR, can tell you all you need to know about why eyeglasses may be the better solution for you.

What’s Wrong With Contact Lenses? 

When it comes to eyeglasses versus contact lenses, there may be no right or wrong choice. Both will correct vision, and both are popular options in eyewear. However, when it comes to convenience and durability, contact lenses rank second on the list. Still, for patients who don’t want to be encumbered by frames or who don’t want others to know they’re using corrective lenses, contacts are a fine solution. For most people, it simply comes down to personal preference.

Why Should I Choose Eyeglasses over Contacts? 

While both solutions are sound, eyeglasses may simply be a better choice for many patients. This is especially true for younger children and teens who may not be ready for a complicated care routine like that required by contact lenses. Eyeglasses have many benefits, including:

Price

You may wish to choose eyeglasses over contact lenses if you’re working within a budget. Eyeglasses may be more expensive in the beginning, but they’ll last for years with conscientious care. Contacts, conversely, must be replaced on a daily, biweekly, or monthly basis.

Ease of Maintenance

An occasional spritz with lens cleaner and a quick wipe with a soft cloth are all that’s needed to keep eyeglasses clean and shining. However, contact lenses require a special sanitizing solution and must be stored wet to preserve them.

Risk of Eye Infection

Eyeglasses pose no risk of eye infection, but contact lenses do. This is especially true for those who don’t clean them enough, who wear them too long between cleanings, or who wear their contacts past the expiration date.

Protection from UV Rays

Most contact lenses offer little-to-no protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, you can easily have a protective UV coating applied to eyeglasses. You can even opt for eyeglasses that darken for use as sunglasses when you enter the bright, outdoor light.

To browse abeautiful selection of in-stock and special-order eyeglass frames in Portland, OR, stop by Asterisk Eyewear today.

3 Tips to Make Your Eyewear More Comfortable

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Those who have worn prescription eyeglasses in Portland, OR for a number of years eventually don’t even notice they’re wearing them. At first, you may notice that you’re wearing eyewear. Over time, it shouldn’t be obvious to you that you’re wearing an eyeglasses on your face. But sometimes, eyeglasses can become increasingly uncomfortable. When or if this happens, here are three tips to make your eyewear more comfortable.

1. Apply Nose Pads

Have you ever worn your eyeglasses all day long and begun to feel a kind of pressure on the bridge of your nose? You’ve probably seen people remove eyeglasses and hold and massage the bridge of their nose. Even plastic eyeglasses can feel “heavy” after a long day’s use. To alleviate this sensation, apply cushioned nose pads. These small pieces of adhesive foam can do wonders to make your plastic or metal lenses more comfortable. They do have a tendency to come off over time, so invest in several. They are very inexpensive and readily available.

2. Get Eyeglasses Adjusted

Your eyeglasses in Portland, OR should feel relatively comfortable. If they aren’t—if they “poke” the sides of your head or ears, or if the bottoms of the lenses are hitting your cheeks—chances are they need to be adjusted. Bring them into your eyewear shop in Portland, OR to have them adjusted. Even if you didn’t originally buy them at Asterix Eyewear, we can still make the adjustment for you on prescription eyewear and sunglasses.

3. Store Eyeglasses in Case

You can keep your eyewear more comfortable by simply storing them inside their case when not in use. The most common cause of eyewear getting out of shape is due to mishandling. It’s also very common for people to accidentally sit on stray eyeglasses left behind on sofas, chairs or even the floor. Professionals recommend that you keep several eyeglass cases in various locations around your home and office so you don’t have to go around looking for a case when you want to remove your eyeglasses.This will make it more likely that you’ll use the case to begin with.

These three simple tips can help you to have the most comfortable experience possible while wearing your eyeglasses. Contact us today for a wide selection of prescription and non-prescription eyeglasses!