Eyeglass frames are made using various materials, including wood, stainless steel, titanium, and plastic. The latest innovation in eyeglass frames is acetate—many who wear eyeglasses favor acetate frames over conventional metal or plastic frames.
Wondering why that is and what acetate is? This post will discuss acetate and what makes it one of the best materials for eyeglass frames.
What is acetate?
Acetate is a plastic derived from wood pulp. Since acetate is plant-based, it’s environment-friendly and renewable—unlike petroleum-based plastics. Acetate is also hypoallergenic, so it’s an ideal frame material for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
What makes acetate a great material for eyeglass frames?
- Acetate is lightweight.
Comfort is essential if you wear eyeglasses throughout your day. Acetate is a highly lightweight plastic, so it’s the perfect material for eyeglass frames. When wearing an acetate frame, you won’t feel discomfort even if your eyeglasses have been on your face the entire day. You’ll no longer have to go through the inconvenience of having to readjust your eyeglasses every few minutes.
With an acetate frame, the nose pads are molded into the rest of the frame, providing much more comfort and eliminating friction. When you wear acetate eyeglasses, you don’t have to worry about getting those red marks on your nose like when you wear metal frames.
- Acetate is durable.
Acetate frames are made by forming several layers of plastic into large blocks, cutting individual parts, polishing them, and forming them into frames. Compared to how conventional plastic frames are formed, the acetate-forming process takes longer. It is this process that gives acetate its durability.
If you are looking for a lightweight frame with durability that rivals metal frames, an acetate frame is the way to go.
- Acetate is flexible.
Acetate frames are durable, not just because they can withstand more damage than other frames. The durability of acetate is due in large part to its flexibility.
The more flexible your eyeglass frame is, the longer it will last. This doesn’t mean that acetate frames are impervious to breaking. However, with an acetate frame, you can rest easy knowing that your eyeglasses won’t snap in two at the slightest pressure.
- Acetate offers plenty of design choices.
One of the best things about acetate frames is that they are durable and fashion-forward at the same time. Acetate frames give you the best of both worlds.
Acetate frames are designed for fashion, and you have many options regarding colors, patterns, frame shapes, and designs. The durability of acetate frames allows them to retain the luster of their color or design. You’ll see the color or design chipping off with conventional plastic frames rather quickly. Due to the way acetate is formed layer by layer, the color or design on the frame stays true much longer.
If style is your top priority when choosing a frame, then you can’t go wrong with acetate. Regardless of the color, pattern, or design, an acetate frame will allow you to achieve the fashionable look you want.
Conclusion
Acetate frames are lightweight, durable, and flexible. Furthermore, you’ll have various frame colors, patterns, and designs. This isn’t to say that other frame materials are inferior. Your choice of frame will depend on various factors, such as your lifestyle, budget, and priorities. It’s perfectly fine if you want a conventional plastic frame, a titanium frame, or even a wood frame.
However, acetate frames give you the lightweight quality of plastic frames and the durability of metal frames. You also get a ton of design and color choices. With acetate frames, you get the best value for your money.
