Wearing glasses often leads to marks and bumps on the nose, ranging from temporary indentations to persistent discoloration. This common issue arises from the constant interaction between the frame and the sensitive skin of the nasal bridge. These marks are usually a symptom of uneven pressure, friction, or an underlying skin reaction. Understanding why these marks occur is the first step toward finding a lasting solution. This article explores the causes and provides practical strategies for adjusting your eyewear and treating existing skin concerns.
The Cause of Nose Bumps and Marks
The appearance of a mark on the nose from glasses is primarily a response to pressure. When glasses are worn, the nose pads or the bridge apply continuous force to a small surface area, leading to dermal compression. This pressure temporarily restricts blood flow, causing a visible indentation that usually fades shortly after the glasses are removed.
A more chronic issue is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, often termed “friction melanosis,” which manifests as dark spots. This darkening occurs because repeated friction and low-grade inflammation trigger an overproduction of melanin. The “bump” itself can be inflammation, a buildup of trapped keratin (known as milia), or, in rare cases, a firm nodule called acanthoma fissuratum, which results from chronic irritation and pressure.
Immediate Solutions and Adjusting Your Glasses
The most effective way to eliminate nose marks is to address the source of the pressure—the glasses themselves. Proper frame fitting ensures the weight is distributed broadly and evenly across the nasal bridge. An incorrect bridge width can cause the frame to pinch or slide, concentrating the force.
For frames with adjustable nose pads, the goal is to maximize the surface area of contact to spread the load. Nose pads should sit flush and evenly against the nose without digging in; an optician can adjust this by manipulating the pad arms. If your current pads are small or hard, switching to larger, softer materials like silicone or air-cushioned pads significantly reduces localized pressure.
Frame selection also plays a role in minimizing pressure marks. Choosing frames made from lightweight materials, such as titanium or thin acetate, or opting for high-index lenses reduces the overall weight resting on the nose. Applying a thin layer of non-comedogenic moisturizer or a primer before wearing glasses can create a slight barrier, reducing friction between the skin and the nose pads.
Treating Existing Skin Indentations and Discoloration
Once the pressure has been relieved through proper adjustments, the focus shifts to healing the existing skin marks. Temporary indentations benefit from gentle massage to restore circulation and allow the compressed dermal tissue to rebound. Using light, circular motions on the affected area immediately after removing the glasses encourages blood flow back to the site.
For hyperpigmentation, or dark marks, topical agents that promote cell turnover and inhibit melanin production are beneficial. Over-the-counter options include Vitamin C serums, which act as an antioxidant and brighten the skin, and niacinamide, which helps reduce inflammation and limits the transfer of pigment within the skin. Gentle chemical exfoliants, such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid, can help shed the pigmented top layer of skin over time.
If redness or inflammation is present, a brief application of a cold compress helps soothe the irritation. For persistent, localized inflammation, a low-strength over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may be used sparingly, but it should not be applied long-term without medical guidance. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is necessary, as UV exposure worsens any existing hyperpigmentation.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
While most marks from glasses respond well to frame adjustments and topical treatments, certain symptoms require professional medical attention. Consult a dermatologist if the marks persist despite consistent frame correction and skincare efforts, especially if they are deep, painful, or worsening.
Immediate medical consultation is warranted if you observe signs of infection, such as increasing warmth, spreading redness, swelling beyond the contact area, or pus. Deep, persistent scarring that does not fade with over-the-counter products may benefit from in-office procedures like chemical peels or microdermabrasion. If the irritation presents as a persistent, itchy rash, it may indicate contact dermatitis, potentially an allergy to a frame component like nickel.