These Are 4 Risks That Can Happen If You Rarely Clean Your Glasses

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JAKARTA - You always clean up sports equipment or yoga mattresses after you finish exercising. In fact, you may remember cleaning things like cell phones or contact lens boxes. But when was the last time you cleaned your glasses?

Well, if it's been more than a day, you might want to reassess, experts say. Dirty glasses can make it difficult for you to see clearly, even more prone to damage. And in some cases, it can interfere with your skin or eyes.

In addition, what is the real influence that rarely cleans your glasses on your vision and health?

It's clear that a big stain on the lens will make it difficult for you to see clearly. However, the slightest dust or dirt can have a negative effect, said Shane Kannarr, OD, an Optometry expert in Pittsburg, Kansas, and a medical reviewer at All About Vision.

The dirty lens causes the vision to get looser and limits the amount of light that enters the eye, he added.

"Sands of dust or dirt attached to the lens of glasses can cause abrasions or scratches," said Dr. Kannarr.

This can eventually cause more problems in your vision.

The scratch causes obscurity and can cause a circle of light and glare for the wearer, he said.

The dirt and oil that accumulates on your face throughout the day can move to your body, especially around your nose or ears. Not cleaning the frame of the glasses thoroughly will only move the dirt left on the frame to your face.

The dirty frame will rub the skin and cause the skin to peel off, which can cause infection or dermatological wounds, said Dr. Kannarr.

There is a possibility that the dirty glasses you wear can accommodate bacteria that can actually make you sick. In a small study in the November 2018 edition of 'PLOS One'. The researchers identified 215 different types of bacteria that live only on 21 pairs of glasses, including germs that cause infection such as 'STAphylococcus'. Touching the eyes after the hands hold the frame can risk inserting insects and even germs into your eyes, the researchers said.

So, how often do glasses need to be cleaned? Dr. Kannarr suggested it would be nice if the lens part was cleaned specifically at least once a day. With a periodic cloth as needed if you see dirt or stains starting to accumulate. As for the frame, there is no need to clean it too often. But it's a good idea to clean at least every few days.

Then, what objects should not be used to clean glasses? Wrap paper or tissue, which can scratch the surface of the lens. Also avoid the use of saliva in the lens, because it contains natural oil which can also damage the lens.

Regarding hand soap or dish soap as a substitute for special lens cleaners, Dr. Kannarr does not recommend. Because many contain abrasive ingredients that have the potential to cause scratches.

So, how dangerous is it if you rarely clean your glasses? Cleaning glasses is a simple habit that can provide great benefits such as clearer vision, long-lasting lenses, and healthier skin and eyes. So it's best to do it often, experts say.

Not cleaning the glasses can cause a temporary decrease in vision and does not get full benefits from the lens, said Dr. Kannarr. So prepare equipment, routinely clean the glasses, and be prepared for clearer vision.