How to Remove Protective Coating From Eye Glasses

Spectacle lenses can be coated with ant-reflective coatings in order to cut down on glare. They also sometimes have scratch coatings to help resist scratches. Because the coatings are applied to the surface of the lens and are not part of the lens, the coating eventually might peel off. If this happens to your glasses, there are steps you can take to remove the coatings from your lenses. This method only works on plastic lenses. Do not use hydrofluoric acid on glass lenses.

Things You'll Need

• Glass etching hydrofluoric acid product, such as Armour Etch
• Soft towel
• Cotton swabs

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a cotton swab to apply a thick coating of Armour Etch to both sides of the lens.

• 2

  Let the glasses sit with the coating on them for at least five minutes.

• 3

  Do not rub the compound into the lens, just apply the coating and let it sit.

• 4

  Rinse the lens with warm, soapy water. Rinse again with clear water and wipe dry with a soft, clean towel.

• 5

  Repeat the process if necessary.