Finding the perfect pair of specs is all about comfort and style. With millions of American adults wearing prescription glasses or contacts, you can imagine the variety of shapes, sizes and colors available to meet everyone's functional needs and aesthetic desires. Measuring your pupillary distance helps you select frames that suit your face and lifestyle. It might sound complex, but the process is relatively simple! With a few steps, you can understand more about your eye needs and choose a stylish, comfortable pair of glasses.
What Is Pupillary Distance and Why Is It Important?
Pupillary distance is the distance between your pupils in millimeters. Your optometrist may use a pupillometer to measure pupillary distance in a formal setting, and if they do, they often include it in your prescription as "PD." When you go for an eye exam, your optometrist will confirm your PD, but you can also get an excellent measurement at home with the right tool. There are two PD measurements:
- Single PD: Single, or binocular, PD measures the distance from the center of one pupil to the other.
- Dual PD: Dual, or monocular, PD measures the distance between your pupils to the bridge of the nose and consists of two separate numbers.
The average single pupillary distance is between 50 and 70 millimeters, but normal pupil distance looks different for everyone. It depends on your face and eye shape — the features that make you, you.
Knowing your single and dual PD measurements means you can choose frames that highlight your unique facial structure while maximizing comfort and aesthetics. Your specs are designed with an optical center — the best place to look through to enjoy the best possible vision. It lines the lenses up with your pupils to create a flawless fit. If your PD is incorrect, it affects your vision or causes eye strain.
How to Measure Your Pupillary Distance
It's easy to measure your optical PD at home — the techniques are simple and involve tools you likely already have. You can also use an online PD measuring tool for better accuracy. We recommend taking measurements more than once to get a more accurate result.
Grab a ruler and a pen for the first method. Then, take the following steps:
- Stand around 8 inches from the mirror. Relax your shoulders and look straight ahead.
- Hold the ruler flat against your head, along your brow line.
- Close one eye and line the 0-millimeter mark on the ruler with the center of the other pupil.
- Open one eye and close the other.
- Find the mark on the ruler that aligns with the opposite pupil. This number is your pupillary distance.
- You can also ask a friend to take the measurements, which might provide more accurate results.
Want to double-check your measurement? You will need a nonpermanent marker, your glasses and your ruler for this option. Follow these three steps:
- Put your specs on and look straight into the mirror.
- Mark your pupils on the lenses with the marker.
- Remove your specs and measure the distance between the two dots on your glasses. This measurement is your pupillary distance.
While the above methods are effective, modern technology allows us to use virtual tools for quick results. Simply open the tool and follow the prompts to get an idea of your PD. Covry's PD tool helps you fine-tune your lenses to your eyes. Obtaining an accurate measurement from the comfort of your home has never been easier!
How to Measure Your Face for Eyeglass Frames
Once you know your pupillary distance, the next step is to learn how to check your glasses size. Specs come in many varieties to complement different people — when you find the perfect pair, you'll feel confident, comfortable and carefree. You'll need a mirror and a ruler to measure the following:
- Frame width: This simple measurement helps determine a suitable frame width and involves measuring the width between your temples. Hold your ruler horizontally across your face, just below your eyes. Jot down the distance, in millimeters, between your temples.
- Bridge width: Your bridge width describes the area where the specs rest on your nose. This measurement is helpful for finding frames that stay on without sliding down. Hold your ruler horizontally across the top of your nose. Measure the bridge of your nose where your glasses will sit.
- Arm length: Your specs should fit comfortably behind your ears. Find a suitable arm length by placing a ruler from your temple to behind your ear.
Your face shape is also worth considering, and certain shapes suit certain faces. For example, people with square faces often feel good in round or oval frames.
These measurements give you a general idea of your ideal glasses size, but the best way to know for sure is to try them on. With Covry's Virtual Try-On Tool, you can snap a quick selfie and see yourself in different frames in an instant. This tool analyzes your face shape to help you find a style you love. Try as many options as you want so that you're sure you've found the perfect option for daily wear.
Get Elevated Fit® Eyewear From Covry Today
Measuring your pupillary distance is part of finding eyewear that perfectly suits your face. Covry specs and sunwear are designed for real people, focusing on inclusivity and comfort. Thanks to our high-quality work and commitment to detail, they fit effortlessly and highlight your unique facial features. You can use our PD tool to find your pupillary distance, try on specs virtually or participate in our home try-on program to find the perfect pair of specs.
Our Elevated Fit® eyewear is functional and stylish, so you can express your personal aesthetic while feeling confident in the fit and quality of your specs. These frames sit higher on your nose and away from your cheekbones, allowing you to smile and laugh confidently. With longer nose pads, reduced frame curvature and a narrowed nose bridge, your specs will sit securely. Find the perfect fit today — shop our extensive collection, or send us a selfie at hello@shopcovry.com for personalized recommendations from an experienced stylist.
