How to Remove Scratches from Sunglasses (And What NOT to Do)
If you've ever scratched a favorite pair of sunglasses, you know the frustration.
Naturally, the first instinct is to search:
“Can I fix scratched sunglasses?”
You’ll find dozens of DIY tricks online — from toothpaste to baking soda to sandpaper.
But do they actually work?
Let’s break down the most common scratch-removal myths — and what really happens when you try them.
Can You Remove Scratches from Sunglasses?
Short answer: In most cases, no.
Modern sunglasses have multiple protective coatings:
- UV protection
- Polarization layers
- Anti-reflective treatments
- Impact-resistant surfaces
Scratches usually damage these coatings — not just the surface plastic.
Most “scratch removal” methods don’t remove the scratch.
They remove the coating.
1. Using Sandpaper on Sunglasses
Yes, this is actually suggested online.
Some automotive headlight restoration kits use sanding and polishing — but sunglasses are not headlights.
Sandpaper will:
- Destroy lens clarity
- Remove protective coatings
- Alter light refraction
- Permanently damage the lens
This is not a repair. It’s irreversible damage.
2. Baking Soda on Scratched Lenses
Baking soda is abrasive.
When you rub baking soda onto a lens, you are essentially polishing down the surface to try to “level” the scratch.
What really happens?
You thin the lens coating and create distortion.
It may look smoother temporarily — but optical performance is compromised
3. Toothpaste to Fix Scratches
Toothpaste often contains:
- Baking soda
- Silica
- Mild abrasives
Just like with baking soda alone, toothpaste works by abrasion.
That means:
You are wearing down the lens surface.
The scratch may appear slightly reduced, but you risk creating cloudy spots or blurry patches.
4. Car Wax or Furniture Spray
This method is popular in online videos.
Wax does not remove scratches.
It temporarily fills them.
But:
- It leaves residue
- It can smear under heat
- It affects lens clarity
- It interferes with vision
This is not a long-term solution.
Why Prevention Is Better Than Repair
Once a lens coating is damaged, it cannot be restored to factory condition.
Instead of trying to fix scratches, focus on preventing them.
Common causes of scratches:
- Storing sunglasses loose in bags
- Placing them face-down
- Letting them bounce during movement
- Carrying them without protection
Many athletes avoid cases because they’re bulky — especially during runs, hikes, or fishing trips.
But there’s a smarter solution.
A Better Way to Protect Your Sunglasses
Instead of risking DIY damage, use a secure system that keeps your sunglasses:
- Off rough surfaces
- From bouncing
- From falling
- From rubbing against gear
The Glasskin™ sunglass strap-case from Baggual® is designed to secure your sunglasses during movement — and transform into a protective sleeve when not in use.
No bulk. No loose lenses. No risky “scratch removal hacks.”
