If you’ve recently noticed your Oakley sunglasses lenses flaking or peeling, you’re not losing your mind. Yes, this is a real thing, and it’s incredibly frustrating. But there are key ways to prevent and fix peeling lenses.
Now let’s start with what we mean by flaking and peeling and its causes…
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What is Lens Peeling?
Lens Peeling, flaking, or bubbling refers to when the outermost coating or your lens begins to separate from the lens itself.
For most lenses, the outer layer is either an anti-reflective or Iridium (for Oakley) coating. This Iridium coating is bonded to the layer during manufacturing – typically dipped or sprayed. Over time, this bond can wear, causing delamination, also known as peeling or flaking.
But what causes this flaking? And how do you stop it? Let’s find out.
What Causes Oakley Lens Peeling and Flaking?
As mentioned above, lens peeling is caused by the bond deteriorating between the Polycarbonate lens and its anti-reflective coating. For some lenses, this will happen over time regardless.
But you could also be the reason it’s happening faster than expected.
1. Oil, Hair, and Fingerprints Galore
When you step inside a building, do you put your sunglasses on your head? Or throw them on the table after a run on a hot day? Then you’re heading towards peeling.
Dirt, dust, oil, and other materials building up on your lens lead to delamination. Over time, this dirt infiltrates and breaks down the bond between your Iridium coating and your lens. And while it might start small, it will quickly grow over time.
2. Heat
Like oil and hair, excessive heat can cause the bond between your lenses and their coatings to break down. As a result, repeatedly leaving your sunglasses in a hot car or outside in the sun for long periods can damage them in the long run.
To summarize, the biggest reason for flaking and peeling – You! But you can quickly stop it…
Do All Sunglasses Lenses Peel or Flake?
No, typically, only sunglasses with anti-reflective or similar coatings on their lens will peel. If there is no coating, there is nothing to peel off.
But this doesn’t mean you should run to buy lenses without an anti-reflective coating. On the contrary, cheaper sunglasses without these coatings offer less protection for your eyes and may cost you in the long run!
Plus, you can easily prevent peeling!
How to Prevent Lens Peeling or Flaking?
The easiest way to prevent lens peeling and delamination is – cleaning your lenses and glasses.
As we discussed above, dirt that breaks down the bond between your lenses and the anti-reflective coating is the reason for peeling. And by simply cleaning your sunglasses and lenses from fingerprints or after sweaty activities, you can stop this process in its tracks!
We recommend using a dedicated eyeglasses cleaner or gentle soap with a cotton or microfiber cloth.
For complete instructions, see our guide on How to Properly Clean Your Oakleys.
But what if your lenses are already peeling?
How to Fix Lens Peeling?
Unfortunately, there is no “easy” way to fix peeling lenses. But generally, you have 3 options:
1. Slow the Peeling
You can slow the peeling process by gently cleaning your lenses after activities and avoiding harsh materials. But, depending on the extent of the peeling, you may get another few years from the lenses!
But of course, this won’t restore any damage done to your lenses already.
2. Accelerate the Peeling
While this may sound counterintuitive, bear with us.
Using a gentle abrasive, you can scrape off the remaining anti-reflective coating, leaving your lenses clear (but without their coating). Members have suggested using baking soda paste and water and rubbing it on your lens in a circular motion to help remove the coating.
It’s important to note that removing this layer from lenses is more art than science. As such, this may damage your lenses further and is only recommended for lenses at the end of the line.
3. Replace Your Lenses
Finally, you can opt to replace your lenses altogether. This is the only option to restore your sunglasses to their original (or close to it) state.
And while you may have to buy new lenses, you actually may be able to get them for free! How? Oakley’s Warranty!
Is Lens Peeling Covered by the Oakley Warranty?
It depends. Lens peeling may be covered by your Oakley sunglasses warranty based on the age of your lenses.
Most Oakley sunglasses and lenses are covered by the warranty for 2 years from the date of purchase. And this should cover basic lens peeling or delamination. But, unfortunately, it won’t cover scratches.
But as noted in the Forum, some members have had luck calling up customer service years after the 2-year warranty and still receiving replacement lenses free (Hey, it never hurts to ask).
Just make sure you have your proof of purchase or receipt.
Check out our guide to the Oakley Warranty and what’s really covered for the complete details.
Where can I find Oakley Replacement Lenses?
If your lenses are not covered by your warranty, you can directly buy replacement lenses from Oakley or aftermarket suppliers.
While aftermarket lenses are usually cheaper, you’ll want to understand the quality you’re buying. Check out our guide to the Best Oakley Replacement Lenses for more information.
Can Peeling Happen to Prescription Oakley Lenses?
Yes, prescription Oakley lenses can also peel over time if they feature an anti-reflective coating. Typically these coatings are more common on prescription sunglasses.
Have a Question?
Want to know more about sunglasses lens peeling? Or Have a question about your lenses? Join the biggest online Oakley community and let us know below!