Glasses should fit comfortably and function properly, but many Black people struggle with frames designed for Eurocentric facial features. Wider nose bridges, higher cheekbones, and broader faces often make standard eyewear unstable or uncomfortable.
For eyecare professionals, this isn’t just about improving fit; it’s about better serving patients’ unique needs while also presenting a business opportunity. It’s important to remember that every individual’s facial structure is unique, and no single frame design will work for everyone. By expanding your range, you’re better equipped to personalize solutions for each patient.
While there is broad diversity in facial structure among Black individuals, certain features like a wider nose bridge or more prominent cheekbones can make standard frames less comfortable. Offering frames that account for a wider range of facial structures not only enhances patient satisfaction and overall well-being, but also builds loyalty and positions a practice as inclusive and forward-thinking.
This blog explores why frame diversity matters and how professionals can better serve Black patients. While this article focuses on common challenges experienced by many Black patients, offering diverse frame options can also benefit individuals from other backgrounds whose facial features aren’t served by standard fits.
Facial Features That Affect Eyewear Fit
Many standard eyewear designs are built for narrower facial structures, leaving many Black individuals with frames that slip, pinch, or sit uncomfortably. Poor fit isn’t just an inconvenience—it affects both comfort and vision. Without adjustments for common variations (like a wider nose bridge or higher cheekbones), traditional frames often fail to provide the stability and alignment needed for comfortable, all-day wear.
Offering frames that address these needs ensures better comfort, stability, and vision correction. Click here to learn more about all of the specialty fit options in ClearVision's portfolio.
Why You Need Frames That Fit People of Color
Many Black consumers struggle to find glasses that fit properly due to limited options. Providing inclusive eyewear helps meet the needs of historically underserved patients, improves their overall experience, and fosters stronger provider-patient relationships.
Beyond fit, offering inclusive eyewear fosters customer loyalty. When patients feel understood, they return and refer others. A well-curated frame selection isn’t just about comfort—it strengthens word-of-mouth marketing.
As inclusivity becomes a growing priority, practices that adapt will stand out. Expanding frame boards to include better-fitting options isn’t just good service—it’s smart business.
How to Choose Frames That Fit People of Color
Simply expanding a frame board isn’t enough—ECPs must know what to look for when selecting eyewear that properly fits Black patients. Here are the key features that ensure comfort, stability, and optimal vision correction.
Wider Nose Bridges or Adjustable Nose Pads
Frames with built-in wider bridges naturally rest more securely on flatter nasal profiles. Alternatively, adjustable nose pads allow for customization, preventing slipping and ensuring proper lens positioning.
Longer Temples for a Secure Fit
Standard temples may not extend far enough to provide a comfortable and secure fit. Longer temples help prevent pinching behind the ears and keep frames from shifting throughout the day.
Flatter Base Curve for Proper Lens Positioning
Many traditional frames have a steep base curve designed for narrower facial structures. A flatter base curve ensures that lenses sit correctly on the face, improving both comfort and optical alignment.
Stocking frames with these features not only improves patient experience but also makes fittings smoother and more efficient.
Practical Steps for ECPs to Improve Their Frame Boards
Start by assessing your current inventory. If most frames cater to Eurocentric features, they may fail to provide Black patients with stability, comfort, and proper fit. Work with frame reps to source inclusive designs that better accommodate diverse facial structures. Many brands now recognize the need for eyewear that fits Black patients more effectively.
Equally important is staff training. Your team should be able to identify poor fit and confidently recommend better options. Educating staff on common fit challenges ensures Black patients receive a more personalized and comfortable experience.
These intentional changes help improve patient satisfaction, build loyalty, and set a practice apart as an inclusive provider.
Expanding Frame Options Strengthens Patient Care
Ensuring that eyewear fits properly isn’t just about comfort—it’s about providing the best possible vision and customer experience. For too long, Black patients have had to compromise with frames that weren’t designed for their facial features. ECPs have the opportunity to change that.
Ultimately, providing inclusive eyewear is about ensuring every patient feels comfortable, confident, and well-supported in their vision care, regardless of their background or facial structure.
Now is the time to evaluate inventory, source better-fitting frames, and ensure that every patient who walks through the door has access to eyewear that truly fits.
