Different types of materials for sunglasses

3 main types of raw materials for sunglasses

Sunglasses aren't just the frames you see; they're made from several components. Likewise, each component is made from different materials. Companies set prices based on these materials. So, whether you opt for regular sunglasses or designer ones, knowing the materials used will always help you buy the right, long-lasting product.

Basically, three types of materials are used in the manufacture of sunglasses.

Metal
Plastic
Natural
While metal and plastic materials are traditional, natural materials for sunglasses have recently gained attention.

7 materials for metal sunglasses

1. Stainless steel
Stainless steel is a durable, strong, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight material. Stainless steel frames are affordable and also available in polished or matte finishes.

Advantages
They are durable
Available in a variety of sizes.
Resistant to corrosion, weather, insects and fire.
Disadvantages
They are durable
Available in a variety of sizes.
Resistant to corrosion, weather, insects and fire.

2. Memory metal
Memory metal is basically a titanium alloy composed of 50% titanium and 50% nickel. Memory metal sunglasses are very flexible, allowing them to return to their original shape. Thanks to this material, these wonders are achieved.

This material is a good choice for children's sunglasses. However, it's also popular among adults for everyday use.

Advantages
It can withstand twists and bends and returns to its original state.
They have a longer lifespan compared to stainless steel materials.
Disadvantages
It is a somewhat expensive material.

3. Titanium
Titanium is a high-quality sunglasses material with high corrosion resistance. It's also lightweight and hypoallergenic.

Advantages
Very comfortable to wear.
Ideal for making sports sunglasses.
It does not require a lot of maintenance.
Skin-friendly, no harm to skin if worn for several hours.
Disadvantages
Expensive material

4. Beta titanium
Beta titanium is a combination of titanium alloy with small amounts of vanadium and aluminum. These sunglass materials tend to be more flexible.

Advantages
High flexibility
Affordable sunglasses
Easy to install and adjust.
Disadvantages
It does not have hypoallergenic properties since it lacks pure titanium.

5. Beryllium
If you're looking for an economical substitute for pure titanium, you can opt for beryllium, a sunglass material. This raw material resists tarnishing and corrosion, making it an excellent choice for people with skin acidity issues.

Advantages
Affordable price
Hard to break
Flexible and light
Excellent for users who spend most of their time with the tie near salt and water.
Disadvantages
This sunglass material is not completely hypoallergenic: it may cause allergies in people sensitive to beryllium.

6. Monel
Monel sunglasses are undoubtedly affordable, as the material is a mixture of copper and nickel. Therefore, they are lightweight and available in a variety of price ranges thanks to the quality of the coating.

Advantages
Strong material that can be easily soldered and welded.
Disadvantages
Discoloration is common when exposed to normal atmospheric conditions.
Stings are commonly found when exposed to salt water.
This material causes skin allergies over time.

7. Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the best materials for sunglasses in terms of weight, strength, and durability. Sunglasses made from this material are lightweight and also offer high corrosion resistance.

Advantages
Does not cause allergies
Cheap and durable even for years.
Disadvantages
Does not withstand rough handling
5 Plastic Materials for Sunglasses

1. Nylon
Nylon for sunglasses is strong, flexible, and lightweight. It's a popular material for making sunglasses. However, nylon sunglasses become extremely brittle over time.

Advantages
Long-lasting and resistant to cold and heat.
The material is also better for sportswear.
Disadvantages
Users sometimes feel unnatural and stiff.
This material does not come in a wide range of colors.

2. TR90
TR90 comes from the nylon family. However, it's manufactured using Swiss technology and is a thermoplastic material. TR90 sunglasses materials are extraordinarily lightweight and also incorporate "Memory Frame Technology."

Advantages
TR90 material returns to its original shape if slightly deformed.
Economical in price
Disadvantages
Durability fades over time.
Not suitable for all skin conditions.

3. Acetate
Acetate is a semi-synthetic material, which is why it is also called "cellulose acetate" or "Zyl." Its main ingredients are obtained from plant materials (cotton and wood pulp) and then transformed into plastic sheets.

In other words, acetate is a premium plastic made from renewable resources. Sunglasses made from this material come in a variety of shapes and colors. It's also a widely used material in designer sunglasses.

Advantages
Made from organic substances
This material fits and adjusts easily.
Available in full depth designs and colors (no chemical paints used)
They have hypoallergenic properties.
Durable and lightweight.
Disadvantages
Extremely expensive compared to other plastic sunglasses materials.
Not suitable for sports activities.

4. Polyamide
Polyamide is obtained from petroleum-derived plastics and belongs to the category of synthetic polymers. Sunglasses materials made from polyamide are less brittle.

Advantages
Polyamide is crack resistant.
It is an economical material.
Disadvantages
The material breaks under severe pressure.
Not suitable for sports activities.

5. Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic polymer composed of carbonate chemical structures. This material is not very reliable, so it is available at low prices.

Furthermore, it lacks durability, especially in hot climates, so it breaks easily in summer.

Advantages
Very cheap material
Light
Disadvantages
No durability
Difficult to adjust and adapt

2 natural materials for sunglasses

1. Wood
Wooden sunglasses are made from different types of wood, from the finest pine (conifers) to common walnut. This material is very reliable and durable.

Wooden sunglasses
Advantages
Made with pure natural resources
It gives a different look to the user.
Environmentally friendly
Hypoallergenic nature
It fits easily and is difficult to break.
Disadvantages
The material of wooden sunglasses is expensive.
Available in limited patterns
A little heavy and inflexible.

2. Natural horn
Natural horn sunglasses are made from water buffalo horn. This material is rare and extremely expensive.

Advantages
Very soft and skin-friendly material.
Durable and fits well.
Disadvantages
Expensive material
Fragile under pressure
Limited demand (hurts the feelings of vegetarian users)
If you're interested in learning more about sunglasses suppliers and knowledge, we invite you to check out our other publications:

Sunglasses Making Guide: Components, Functions, and FAQs
Maximize your sunglasses profits with the best Chinese supplier

Frequently asked questions about sunglasses materials
1. Plastic or metal eyeglass frames: which is better to choose?
It depends on your preferences. If you're concerned about corrosion and prefer lightweight glasses, choosing plastic frames is a good idea. Conversely, if durability is important to you and price isn't an issue, metal frames might be your best option.

2. What happens if my sunglasses get wet?
Many sunglasses are currently coated with waterproof wax, which protects the frame and other parts from corrosion. However, this also depends on the material of the glasses. Plastic glasses are the most resistant to water. In comparison, some metal and wooden frames are severely affected.

3. Do all sunglasses offer UV protection?
No. Not all sunglasses are designed to protect you from UV rays.

4. Do wooden sunglasses frame materials float?
Wooden sunglasses frame materials float in water if protected with a wood wax finish.

5. How to take care of your sunglasses?
Whatever material your sunglasses are made of, make sure not to bend them intentionally, wipe off dust with a soft cloth, preferably a microfiber cloth, and always keep them in their case when not in use.

Final words:

We hope this article provides you with useful information about sunglasses materials. If you have any questions about sunglasses after reading this, please leave a comment below.