Getting your first pair of glasses can feel like a big step—whether you’re an adult adjusting to new vision needs or a parent navigating options for your child. From frame styles and lens types to daily comfort and common concerns, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.
At Malaya Optical, we’ve helped countless first-time wearers find glasses they not only need, but also love to wear. Here’s how you can get started with confidence.
Step 1: Start With a Proper Eye Exam before Your First Glasses
The first step in choosing glasses is to get an accurate prescription. During an eye exam, our qualified optometrists check for vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and more.
For kids: Children might not always say when they’re struggling to see. Signs to watch for include squinting, holding books too close, frequent eye rubbing, or headaches.
✅ Tip: At Malaya Optical, we recommend annual eye exams for children and adults—especially if it’s your first time getting glasses.
Step 2: Understand the Types of Lenses For Your First Glasses
The lens is the most important part of your glasses—it’s what corrects your vision. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Single Vision: Most common for first-timers. These lenses correct one field of vision (near or far).
Progressive Lenses: For people who need help seeing at multiple distances (often age 40+).
Blue Light Filter: Helps reduce eye strain from screens—great for students, office workers, or gamers.
Photochromic (Light-Adaptive): Lenses that darken in sunlight. Ideal for active kids or adults who move between indoors and outdoors.
Myopia Control Lenses: Designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.
If you’re unsure which lens is right, don’t worry—our optometrists will recommend the best option based on your lifestyle.
Step 3: Choose the Right Frame for Comfort and Style
Your glasses should feel comfortable and make you feel good. Here’s what to consider:
🔹 Frame Fit
For adults: Look for a secure but not tight fit on the nose and ears. Glasses shouldn’t slide or pinch.
For kids: Choose lightweight, flexible frames that can handle active play.
🔹 Face Shape
Round face: Angular frames like rectangular or square
Oval face: Almost any style works well
Heart-shaped face: Rounded or cat-eye frames
Square face: Round or oval frames to soften features
🔹 Material Matters
Acetate: Stylish, colorful, and comfortable
Titanium: Lightweight and durable—great for active wearers
Nylon/TR90: Flexible and kid-friendly
Stainless Steel: Sleek and strong
✨ At Malaya Optical, we carry a wide range of brands including RYAN ADDA, MYKITA, LINDBERG, Ray-Ban, MOSCOT, and kid-friendly options like LIPO and CRISPIN BEES.
Step 4: Address Common First-Time Concerns
“What if I don’t like how I look in glasses?”
There’s a style for everyone. Our team will help you try on different shapes, sizes, and colours to find what suits your face and personality.
“Will glasses feel weird or uncomfortable?”
They might at first, but most people adjust within a week. If you feel constant pressure or slipping, visit us for a free adjustment.
“How can I make sure my child wears them consistently?”
Let them be involved in choosing their frames. A frame they love can make a big difference. We also carry lightweight, flexible frames designed especially for kids.
Step 5: Tips for Adjusting to Your New Glasses
Give it time: Your brain needs a few days to adapt, especially if your prescription is strong.
Wear them regularly: Don’t just “save them for reading” unless advised—regular wear helps faster adjustment.
Clean properly: Use a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaner to avoid scratches and smudges.
Visit us for adjustments: Loose arms or nose pad pressure? We’ll fix it in minutes, no matter where you bought them.
Still Unsure? We’re Here to Help
Choosing your first glasses is a personal journey—but you don’t have to go it alone. At Malaya Optical, our experienced optometrists and friendly team will guide you through every step, from eye exam to frame fitting.
Book an appointment today to get expert advice and try on frames that suit your vision and lifestyle needs.
At Malaya Optical, we are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and professional environment for all.
Our culture is grounded in mutual respect, empathy, and understanding—values that guide how we engage with our team, our customers, and the wider community. We proudly support diversity within our workplace, including the employment of individuals with physical disabilities and attention-related conditions such as ADHD.
While we encourage all team members to act responsibly at all times, we acknowledge that personal actions or expressions made outside of working hours—particularly on social media—are beyond our control. These do not reflect the values, beliefs, or culture we uphold at Malaya Optical.
We remain dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering space where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
