Choosing your first pair of glasses (or upgrading to a better pair) can feel overwhelming especially when it comes to frame materials. Acetate, metal, titanium, stainless steel, nylon and the list goes on but what does it all mean? And more importantly, which one suits your lifestyle?
Whether you’re after something stylish, lightweight, durable, or hypoallergenic, this guide breaks down the most popular frame materials in simple terms. Plus, we’ll highlight some of the trusted designer and everyday brands we carry at Malaya Optical to help you find the perfect match.
Acetate: Lightweight, Stylish, and Skin-Friendly
What is it?
Acetate is a plant-based plastic known for its vibrant colours, flexibility, and comfort. Unlike standard plastic frames, acetate is more durable and often hypoallergenic.
Great for:
- Everyday wearers who love fashionable colours
- First-time glasses users
- Those with sensitive skin
Maintenance:
- Wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap
- Avoid hot dashboards or prolonged sun exposure—it can warp
Brands to look at:
- RYAN ADDA (for bold acetate designs with titanium temples)
- MOSCOT (classic, vintage styles in rich acetate tones)
- Ray-Ban (timeless acetate styles with modern updates)
Metal: Sleek and Versatile
What is it?
Metal frames are typically made from stainless steel, aluminum, or alloys. They’re often thinner than acetate and offer a more minimalist look.
Great for:
- Professionals looking for a clean, polished aesthetic
- People who want lightweight and low-profile eyewear
- Those who need adjustable nose pads for a better fit
Maintenance:
- Use an anti-corrosion spray if exposed to sweat frequently
- Tighten screws periodically
Brands to explore:
- MYKITA (modern, screwless German design in stainless steel)
- LINDBERG (lightweight titanium and metal hybrids with minimal design)
Titanium: Ultralight, Durable, and Hypoallergenic
What is it?
Titanium is a premium metal known for its strength, flexibility, and featherweight feel. It’s also 100% hypoallergenic.
Great for:
- Active users and professionals
- Anyone with a metal allergy or sensitive skin
- People who want glasses that “disappear” on the face
Maintenance:
- Extremely low maintenance—just wipe clean
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
Top picks:
- RYAN ADDA and LINDBERG (elegant, high-performance titanium styles)
- MYKITA (sleek titanium mixed with acetate for a stylish fusion)
Stainless Steel: Affordable Strength
What is it?
A common alternative to titanium, stainless steel frames offer a strong, durable option with a slightly heavier feel.
Great for:
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Those looking for long-lasting frames without the premium cost
- Moderate activity wearers
Maintenance:
- Clean regularly to prevent smudges or rust in humid climates
- Tighten screws occasionally
Available in:
- Ray-Ban, MORA, and some LINDBERG and MYKITA lines
Nylon & TR90: Flexible and Kid-Friendly
What is it?
Nylon (especially TR90, a newer version) is a super flexible, lightweight plastic used in sports and kids’ eyewear. It resists impact and bending much better than standard plastics.
Great for:
- Active kids and rough-and-tumble wear
- Sports players or outdoor adventurers
- People who drop their glasses often
Maintenance:
- Very easy to clean
- Scratch-resistant, but not heat-resistant
Top child-friendly brands at Malaya Optical:
- LIPO and CRISPIN BEES (designed with comfort, colour, and durability in mind)
Hypoallergenic Options: No More Red Marks or Rashes
If you have sensitive skin, look for materials like:
- Titanium – completely hypoallergenic
- Acetate – especially when it’s BPA- and phthalate-free
- TR90 Nylon – gentle and non-reactive
Avoid nickel-based alloys or cheap metal blends, which can trigger irritation.
Choosing the Right Frame Materials for Your Life
| Lifestyle | Best Material | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Office/Professional | Titanium or Metal | Sleek, professional, and comfortable all day |
| Fashion-forward | Acetate | Bold colours, trendy shapes |
| Sporty/Active | Nylon/TR90 or Titanium | Lightweight, impact-resistant |
| Sensitive Skin | Titanium or Acetate | Hypoallergenic and gentle |
| Kids | Nylon/TR90 | Durable, flexible, colourful |
Still Not Sure? Let Us Help You Choose
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to eyewear—frame material matters just as much as style and fit. If you want to explore your options, feel the differences in person, or get recommendations based on your prescription and lifestyle, visit Malaya Optical and book an appointment with one of our qualified optometrists.
We’ll help you find a frame that not only looks great but fits your life perfectly.