A Comprehensive Guide on How to Remove Tint from Plastic Lenses

Tinted lenses are a popular choice for many eyeglass wearers, offering a stylish and functional solution for reducing glare and enhancing visual comfort. However, there may come a time when you want to remove the tint from your plastic lenses, perhaps to change the color or restore them to their original clear state. Removing tint from plastic lenses can be a tricky process, but with the right guidance and precautions, it’s possible to achieve professional-looking results.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods for removing tint from plastic lenses, including using household items, commercial lens-tint removers, and professional services. We will also discuss important safety tips and precautions to keep in mind during the process.

Before You Begin: Understand the Type of Lens and Tint

Before attempting to remove tint from your plastic lenses, it’s crucial to understand the type of lens material and tint you’re dealing with. There are two common types of plastic lenses: CR-39 and polycarbonate. Each type of lens may react differently to various tint removal methods, so it’s important to know which material your lenses are made from.

There are also various types of tinting processes, such as dye-based tints, vacuum deposition, and photochromic lenses. Dye-based tints are the easiest to remove, while vacuum deposition and photochromic lenses can be more challenging. If you’re unsure about the type of lens material or tinting process, consult your optician or the manufacturer for more information.

How to Remove Tint from Plastic Lenses

Method 1: Using Household Items

There are several methods for removing tint from plastic lenses using common household items. These methods work best for dye-based tints and may not be effective for other types of tinting processes.

A. Hydrogen Peroxide

1. Fill a bowl with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, enough to fully submerge your lenses.
2. Carefully remove the lenses from your eyeglass frames.
3. Submerge the lenses in the hydrogen peroxide solution.
4. Allow the lenses to soak for several hours or overnight, checking periodically to monitor the tint removal process.
5. Once the desired level of tint removal is achieved, remove the lenses from the solution and rinse thoroughly with water.
6. Dry the lenses with a clean, lint-free cloth and reassemble your eyeglasses.

B. Baking Soda and Vinegar

1. Combine equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar in a bowl, creating a thick paste.
2. Remove the lenses from your eyeglass frames.
3. Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently apply the paste to the tinted side of the lenses.
4. Allow the paste to sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Rinse the lenses thoroughly with water, ensuring all paste residue is removed.
6. Dry the lenses with a clean, lint-free cloth and reassemble your eyeglasses.

C. Isopropyl Alcohol

1. Fill a bowl with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher), enough to fully submerge your lenses.
2. Carefully remove the lenses from your eyeglass frames.
3. Submerge the lenses in the isopropyl alcohol.
4. Allow the lenses to soak for several hours or overnight, checking periodically to monitor the tint removal process.
5. Once the desired level of tint removal is achieved, remove the lenses from the alcohol and rinse thoroughly with water. 6. Dry the lenses with a clean, lint-free cloth and reassemble your eyeglasses.

Method 2: Commercial Lens-Tint Removers

Commercial lens-tint removers are specially formulated products designed to remove tints from plastic lenses. These products can be found at optical supply stores or online retailers.

• Make sure to choose a tint remover that is specifically designed for the type of lens material you have (CR-39 or polycarbonate).
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the lens-tint remover, as the application process may vary between products.
• Typically, you will need to apply the lens-tint remover to the tinted side of the lenses and allow it to sit for a specified amount of time.
• Once the tint has been removed to your desired level, rinse the lenses thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean, lint-free cloth.
• Reassemble your eyeglasses.

Method 3: Professional Services

If you’re uncomfortable attempting to remove the tint from your plastic lenses yourself or have been unsuccessful with the above methods, consider seeking the help of a professional.

Many opticians and optical labs offer lens-tint removal services. This option may be more expensive, but it provides the assurance that your lenses will be handled by experts with the appropriate tools and techniques.

Safety Tips and Precautions

• Always wear gloves when handling chemicals or solvents to protect your skin.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals or solvents to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Be cautious when removing your lenses from the frames, as applying too much pressure may cause them to crack or break.
• Do not use abrasive materials or excessive force when applying or removing solutions, as this may scratch or damage the lenses.
• If you experience any discomfort, redness, or irritation after wearing your glasses following tint removal, discontinue use and consult your optician.

FAQs

Can removing tint from my plastic lenses damage them?

Removing tint from plastic lenses carries some risk of damaging the lenses, especially if the process is not done carefully. The use of abrasive materials, excessive force, or inappropriate chemicals can cause scratches or other damage to your lenses. It’s important to follow the instructions provided in this guide or by the manufacturer of a commercial lens-tint remover to minimize the risk. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure your lenses are handled safely.

Can I remove the tint from photochromic lenses?

Photochromic lenses, such as Transitions, change color in response to UV light exposure. Removing the tint from these lenses is typically not possible, as the photochromic properties are embedded within the lens material itself, rather than being a surface coating or dye. If you no longer desire the photochromic effect, you may need to replace your lenses with non-photochromic ones.

How long does it take to remove tint from plastic lenses?

The time required to remove tint from plastic lenses varies depending on the method used and the depth of the tint. With household items like hydrogen peroxide or isopropyl alcohol, it may take several hours or even overnight for the tint to be removed. Using commercial lens-tint removers or seeking professional assistance may result in a quicker process. Always follow the specific instructions for the method you choose and be prepared to exercise patience to achieve the desired results.

Can I re-tint my lenses after removing the tint?

Yes, it is possible to re-tint your lenses after removing the existing tint. You can choose a new color or simply refresh the original tint. Many optical labs and opticians offer lens tinting services, or you can try a DIY lens tinting kit if you’re comfortable with the process. It’s important to ensure your lenses are thoroughly cleaned and free from any residue before applying a new tint.

Can I remove the tint from my sunglasses?

Yes, you can remove the tint from plastic sunglass lenses using the methods outlined in this guide, provided the lenses are made of CR-39 or polycarbonate material and feature a dye-based tint. However, some sunglasses have a vacuum-deposited or mirrored coating, which may be more difficult to remove. If you’re unsure about the type of tint or lens material, consult your optician or the sunglasses manufacturer for guidance.

Conclusion

Removing tint from plastic lenses can be a challenging process, but with the right method and some patience, you can successfully restore your lenses to their original clear state or prepare them for a new tint. Always take safety precautions when working with chemicals and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle tint removal and enjoy a fresh look for your eyeglasses.

Also Learn:

How to Remove Tint from Sunglasses

8 Different Ways to Remove Tint from Eyeglasses 

How to Remove Tint from Glasses