Wearing glasses can cause discomfort and irritation behind the ears due to blood vessels and nerve damage. Whether you're using prescription glasses or just trying out a trendy frame, wearing frames that are too tight on your head can cause a lot of unnecessary pain.
The temple tips of your glasses can actually pinch the sensitive skin behind your ears, causing a rash to develop. In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into the science behind glasses-induced ear irritation and provide tips for preventing it.
Glasses Irritating The Skin Behind Ears: 4 Reasons
Irritation and redness around the ears are often caused by glasses that constantly rub against the skin. Materials used in glasses, such as nickel and certain plastics, can also irritate the skin behind the ears.
Frame Size And Fit
When it comes to glasses, the size and fit of the frames can greatly impact comfort. While tight frames cause pain and irritation behind the ears, loose frames can slide down the nose or cause headaches. Frames should fit your head shape, and various options are available, such as adjustable nose pads and different temple lengths.
Finding the right frame size and fit will greatly improve your experience wearing glasses. The frames can be adjusted slightly larger to ensure they fit comfortably behind the ears without causing any irritation.
Weight And Material Of The Glasses
A heavy pair of eyeglasses can also irritate the ears. Heavy glasses put undue pressure on the ears and cause pain and headaches. Choosing lightweight frames made from hypoallergenic materials such as titanium or acetate can help reduce irritation.
Choosing glasses with adjustable nose pads and temple tips ensures a comfortable, secure fit without causing skin irritation. Regular cleaning of frames can prevent dust and debris from building up, contributing to skin irritation.
Length Of The Temple Arms
A person's temple arm length also affects whether or not the glasses will irritate their ears. If the components are too short, they pressure the ears, causing discomfort and pain. On the other hand, if the arms are too long, they will not provide sufficient support, leading to slippage and instability.
Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the temple arms are of appropriate length, considering the size and shape of the head. Failure to do so can result in discomfort, headaches, and even permanent ear damage.
Skin Sensitivity
Skin sensitivity is a common issue for those who wear glasses, as the skin behind the ears is highly vascularized and innervated. Many blood vessels and nerves surround the ears and mastoid bone, making the skin behind the ears particularly sensitive.
Constant contact and pressure from the glasses can cause irritation and discomfort. Several factors, including material, fit, and hygiene, contribute to this issue. Allergic reactions to certain materials, such as nickel, can also cause skin sensitivity. A proper adjustment and cleaning of glasses can help alleviate irritation.
Treatment Options For Glasses Irritating Skin Behind Ears
Wearing glasses today is common but can sometimes cause irritation and discomfort. The pressure exerted by the glasses' arms causes skin irritation around the ears. Treatment options exist to soothe the affected skin and alleviate these unpleasant symptoms.
Taking a Break From Wearing Glasses:
If glasses are causing irritation or soreness behind the ears, it is essential to take a break from wearing them. This will allow the affected skin to heal naturally. You can also consider alternative frames with softer or adjustable nose pads/arms to relieve the pressure on your ears. It is crucial to consult your eye doctor before changing your eyewear.
Applying Moisturizer Or Barrier Cream:
A moisturizer or barrier cream can be highly effective in treating irritable skin behind the ears. These creams help to soothe and nourish the affected skin, reducing inflammation and redness. The glasses form a protective barrier between the skin and the glasses, preventing further irritation.
Moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E promote healing and restore the skin's natural moisture levels. Using these creams regularly can significantly improve the condition.
Using Over-The-Counter Products:
Several over-the-counter products are available when it comes to treating irritation behind the ears from glasses. These can include creams, balms, and lotions that soothe the skin and reduce redness. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal can be beneficial for calming irritated skin.
You should choose a product designed specifically for sensitive skin and avoid anything with fragrances or alcohol. Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid wearing glasses for extended periods to allow the skin to heal.
Seeking Medical Advice:
Medical advice may be necessary to find appropriate treatment for skin behind the ears irritated by glasses. Some potential options include:
- Switching to glasses with softer, more flexible materials less likely to rub against the skin.
- Applying a barrier cream or ointment to the affected area before wearing glasses.
- Using hydrocortisone cream or other topical medications to reduce inflammation and itching.
- Taking oral antihistamines to alleviate itchiness.
- Applying cold or wet compresses to soothe the skin.
- Using moisturizers or emollients to keep the skin hydrated.
- A doctor may prescribe stronger topical or oral medications or suggest alternative eyewear options in more severe cases.
- Avoiding wearing glasses for prolonged periods or taking regular breaks to relieve pressure and friction on the skin behind the ears.
To prevent further irritation or damage to the skin, seek medical advice before attempting any treatment.
Conclusion:
Glasses can cause skin irritation and discomfort behind the ears, but several treatment options can alleviate these symptoms. Take a break from wearing glasses, apply moisturizer or barrier cream, use over-the-counter products, or seek medical advice.
It is essential to seek medical advice if the irritation persists or shows signs of infection. Maintaining good eyewear habits and good hygiene can help prevent, mitigate, and even treat eyeglass ear irritation.
