How to Repair Scratches on a Plastic Eyeglass Lens

As careful as you may be, eyeglass lenses tend to become scratched over time. Whether you forget to use the case or you drop them, scratches can develop. If left untreated, these scratches can eventually impede your vision. Most lenses are now created out of plastic or advanced polycarbonate materials. While they are more susceptible to surface damage, scratches in plastic are, fortunately, easier to repair than ones in glass.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber cloths
• Glass etching compound
• Warm water
• Metal polish, spray
• Furniture polish, spray
• Carnauba or car wax

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply the glass etching compound to the eyeglass lens. This chemical product will dissolve the surface of the lens, including any scratch-resistant or anti-glare coatings that may have been applied to the lenses.

• 2

  Allow the chemical to remain in place for the designated time, as per the manufacturer's directions. Most etching compounds require 5 minutes to process. Rinse with warm water following the processing time.

• 3

  Spray either side of the lens with metal polish. Buff the product into the scratches then polish away the surface. Rinse once complete.

• 4

  Spray either side of the lens with furniture polish. Rub the product into the scratch using small, circular motions then rinse to remove.

• 5

  Apply a dime-sized amount of Carnauba or car wax to your microfiber cloth. Gently smear the wax onto the surface of the lens.

• 6

  Apply pressure to the lens, pushing the wax into the fine scratches on the surface. Use a clean cloth to remove excess wax and polish the lens clean.