Can you be allergic to eyeglass frames? Yes, you can be allergic to eyeglass frames, most commonly due to nickel in metal frames. Nickel is the most frequent cause of contact allergy worldwide. Other possible triggers include cobalt, chromium, and rubber or silicone in nose pads. Symptoms include redness, itching, dry skin, and small bumps where the frame touches the face. The solution is to...

What are nickel-free eyeglass frames? Nickel-free eyeglass frames are frames made from materials that contain little or no nickel, or frames that are plated with a nickel-free barrier system. They are designed for people with nickel sensitivity, a common cause of skin irritation from metal eyewear. Common nickel-free options include titanium, beta titanium, 316L stainless steel with nickel-f...

Are stainless steel eyeglass frames hypoallergenic? Yes, stainless steel eyeglass frames can be hypoallergenic, especially when made from 316L or 304 medical-grade stainless steel with nickel-free plating. Stainless steel itself contains some nickel, but the release rate is very low when the material grade and plating are correct. For sensitive-skin markets, buyers should always confirm nick...

What are the lightest eyeglass frame materials? The lightest eyeglass frame materials are beta titanium, pure titanium, and Ultem, followed by TR90 and stainless steel. Acetate is the heaviest of the common materials. Weight depends not only on the material but also on frame structure, wall thickness, and lens size. Rimless and semi-rimless designs are lighter than full rim. For B2B buyers, ...

What is cellulose acetate and what are its advantages? Cellulose acetate is a plant-based plastic made from cellulose (usually cotton linters or wood pulp) treated with acetic acid and acetic anhydride. It is the main material used in premium fashion eyewear. Its advantages include rich color depth, layered transparency, smooth polishing, and easy repair. Cellulose acetate frames feel denser...

What is optyl and are optyl frames hypoallergenic? Optyl is a thermoset epoxy resin developed specifically for premium eyewear, and yes, Optyl frames are generally considered hypoallergenic. Optyl is lightweight, dimensionally stable, and skin-friendly. Unlike acetate, it does not contain plasticizers that can leach out over time, which reduces the risk of skin irritation. Optyl frames resis...

What is ultem and what are ultem frames? Ultem is a high-performance thermoplastic also known as PEI (polyetherimide). It is used in eyewear to make ultra-thin, lightweight, and heat-resistant frames. Ultem frames can be molded into very thin profiles without losing strength, which makes them ideal for premium slim designs and minimalist collections. Unlike acetate, Ultem does not need polis...

What is monel and are monel frames hypoallergenic? Monel is a nickel-copper alloy widely used in lower-cost metal eyewear frames. It is strong, easy to weld, and holds shape well. However, monel contains a high percentage of nickel, so it is not naturally hypoallergenic. Frames made from monel can cause skin reactions in nickel-sensitive wearers unless the surface is properly plated and nick...

What is beta titanium and how is it different from titanium? Beta titanium is a titanium alloy that contains titanium plus elements such as vanadium, molybdenum, and aluminum. It is highly flexible and can return to its original shape after bending. Pure titanium is lighter and more rigid, while beta titanium offers spring-back memory that is ideal for thin frames, flexible hinges, and templ...

Titanium vs stainless steel eyeglass frames: which is better? Neither titanium nor stainless steel is universally better — the right choice depends on your price point, target market, and product positioning. Titanium is lighter, stronger, more corrosion-resistant, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for premium and sensitive-skin markets. Stainless steel is stronger than most plastics, offe...

Acetate vs TR90: which is better for eyeglass frames? Neither acetate nor TR90 is universally better — the right choice depends on your market, price point, and product positioning. Acetate is denser, holds richer colors, and can be polished and repaired, making it ideal for fashion and premium lines. TR90 is lighter, more flexible, and impact-resistant, making it ideal for sport, kids, and ...

What is TR90? TR90 is a thermoplastic polyamide material developed by EMS in Switzerland for high-performance eyewear. It is known for being lightweight, flexible, and impact-resistant. TR90 frames can bend under pressure and return to their original shape, which makes them popular for sport, kids, and active lifestyle eyewear. For B2B buyers, TR90 offers a strong balance of durability, comf...

What is the difference between acetate and plastic frames? All acetate frames are plastic, but not all plastic frames are acetate. Acetate is a plant-based plastic cut from solid sheet, while standard plastic frames are injection-molded from petroleum-based resin. Acetate feels denser, holds richer colors, and can be polished and repaired. Injection plastic is lighter, cheaper, and faster to...

What are acetate frames made of? Acetate frames are made from cellulose acetate, a plant-based plastic produced by treating cellulose with acetic acid and acetic anhydride. The cellulose usually comes from cotton linters or wood pulp. The result is a strong, glossy, and color-rich material that can be polished, heated, and reshaped. High-quality acetate is often supplied as sheets from Italy...

What materials are used to make eyeglass frames? Eyeglass frames are made from two main material families: plastics and metals. Plastics include cellulose acetate, TR90, Ultem, and Optyl. Metals include titanium, beta titanium, stainless steel, and monel. Each material offers different weight, durability, flexibility, allergy risk, color range, and price. For B2B buyers, material choice driv...

What does an optical frame catalog include and how do I get one? An optical frame catalog is a B2B product list that shows available frame models, sizes, colors, materials, and packaging options. It usually comes as a PDF, an online page, or a printed book. Most manufacturers divide it into a stock catalog and a custom catalog. To get one, submit an inquiry with your business details and tar...

What are spectacle frames? Spectacle frames are the frames that hold prescription lenses, and the term is the standard British and international word for optical frames or eyeglass frames. In B2B supply, spectacle frames are usually sold as frames only, without lenses. They can be made from acetate, TR90, Ultem, titanium, stainless steel, and other materials. READSUN Optical manufactures cus...

What are the best eyeglass frame brands for wholesale buyers? The "best" eyeglass frame brands for wholesale buyers depend on your business model. If you sell licensed or designer brands, you source through official distributors. If you want your own brand, you work with a factory for private label, ODM, or OEM production. Most successful wholesalers use a mix: a few recognized brands to att...

Are there any eyeglass frames made in the USA? Yes, there are eyeglass frames made in the USA, but the number is small. American frame production is concentrated in niche workshops and specialty brands that focus on handmade acetate, premium metal, or small-batch custom work. Most frames sold in the US are imported from China, Italy, and other regions. The reason is cost: US labor, tooling, ...

How many eyeglass frame manufacturers are there? There are thousands of eyeglass frame manufacturers worldwide, ranging from small workshops to large contract factories. China alone has hundreds of factories concentrated in Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. Italy's Belluno district hosts a smaller but highly specialized cluster for premium acetate. India, Vietnam, and other regions are growin...

Who is the largest eyeglass frame manufacturer? There is no single "largest" eyeglass frame manufacturer. The industry is built on large contract manufacturers, brand-owning groups, and regional production clusters. Major groups such as EssilorLuxottica, Marchon, and Safilo control large brand portfolios and their own production. At the same time, China's Wenzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan clus...

What does 'frames only' mean and can I buy frames without lenses? Yes, you can buy frames without lenses. "Frames only" means the shipment contains the frame front and temples, but no lenses. This is the standard way optical frames are supplied in B2B wholesale. Lens fitting is done later by a lens lab, optical retailer, or distributor. READSUN Optical supplies frames only for wholesale, pri...

What are unisex optical frames? Unisex optical frames are eyeglass frames designed to fit and suit both men and women. They use neutral shapes, balanced proportions, and a mid-size range that works across genders. For B2B buyers, unisex optical frames are a smart way to reduce SKU count while covering two customer groups with one model. READSUN produces custom unisex optical frames for whole...

What is the difference between full rim, semi-rimless and rimless frames? Full rim frames surround the entire lens with frame material. Semi-rimless frames hold the lens partly with frame and partly with a nylon cord. Rimless frames mount the lens directly to the bridge and temples without a surrounding rim. Full rim is the most durable and common. Semi-rimless is lighter with a modern look....

What frame styles are trending for 2026? The strongest eyeglass frame styles for 2026 include retro square shapes, slim gold and silver metal frames, oversized acetate frames, transparent and crystal tones, and mixed-material designs. Demand is also rising for lightweight titanium styles, soft cat-eye shapes, and bold tortoiseshell patterns. These trends come from MIDO and SILMO exhibition r...

What is the HS code for spectacle frames? The HS code for spectacle frames is generally under HS heading 9003. Plastic spectacle frames, including acetate and TR90, usually fall under 9003.11. Metal spectacle frames, including stainless steel, titanium, and monel, usually fall under 9003.19. Spectacle frames is a synonym for optical frames and eyeglass frames, so the same HS codes apply. REA...

What is the HS code for acetate optical frames? The HS code for acetate optical frames is usually 9003.11. This subheading covers frames and mountings for spectacles, goggles, or similar articles made of plastics. Acetate is classified as a plastic material for customs purposes. Metal frames, such as titanium or stainless steel, usually fall under 9003.19. The final code depends on the desti...

What is the HS code for optical frames? The HS code for optical frames is generally under HS heading 9003. Plastic optical frames usually fall under 9003.11, while other materials such as metal, acetate, and titanium typically fall under 9003.19. The exact code depends on the frame material, structure, and destination country. Importers should always confirm the final classification with the...

How do I measure eyeglass frame size? To measure eyeglass frame size, use a ruler or caliper to check three numbers: lens width, bridge width, and temple length in millimeters. Most frames already print these numbers on the inside of the temple. If the numbers are missing, you can measure them yourself in three simple steps. READSUN supplies custom optical frames in all standard sizes and ca...

What do the numbers on eyeglass frames mean? The numbers on eyeglass frames are eyeglass frame measurements, not prescription values. They usually show lens width, bridge width, and temple length in millimeters, printed as three numbers such as 54-18-145. Some frames also include A, B, and ED dimensions. These markings help B2B buyers confirm fit, size, and specification before ordering. REA...

How do eyeglass frame sizes work? Eyeglass frame sizes work with three numbers, usually printed on the temple: lens width, bridge width, and temple length, measured in millimeters. For example, 54-18-145 means a 54 mm lens, an 18 mm bridge, and a 145 mm temple. These numbers help buyers match frames to different face shapes and market preferences. READSUN produces custom optical frames in al...

What are the parts of an eyeglass frame called? The main parts of an eyeglass frame are the lens rim, bridge, endpiece, temple, hinge, and nose pad. Other parts include the temple tip, screws, and sometimes a brow bar. Understanding these terms helps B2B buyers communicate specifications clearly with manufacturers. READSUN Optical produces custom optical frames with all major frame component...

What are the different types of eyeglass frames? There are three main ways to classify eyeglass frame types: by structure, by material, and by shape. Structure includes full rim, semi-rimless, and rimless. Materials include acetate, TR90, Ultem, titanium, and stainless steel. Shapes include round, square, cat-eye, and aviator. READSUN manufactures all major eyeglass frame types for wholesale...

What is the difference between optical frames and sunglasses frames? Optical frames are designed to hold prescription lenses for vision correction, while sunglasses frames are designed for tinted or polarized lenses for sun protection. In B2B sourcing, both can be supplied as frames only or with lenses, depending on your program. READSUN manufactures both optical frames and sunglasses frames...

What are optical frames? Optical frames are the frames that hold prescription lenses. In B2B sourcing, they are usually supplied as frames only, without lenses. They are not the same as sunglasses or ready-made reading glasses. Importers, eyewear brands, and distributors buy optical frames for wholesale, private label, OEM, and ODM programs. READSUN Optical manufactures custom optical frames...

How long do eyeglass frames last? Most eyeglass frames last between two and five years with normal daily wear. Acetate and TR90 frames typically last three to five years. Metal frames such as titanium and stainless steel can last longer, often five years or more. Actual lifespan depends on material, hinge quality, surface finish, and how the frame is used. READSUN applies strict quality cont...

Are acetate frames durable? Yes, acetate frames are durable when the material grade and production quality are correct. High-quality cellulose acetate is strong, flexible, and resistant to daily wear. It can be polished and repaired, which extends its life. Acetate frames typically last three to five years with normal use. READSUN Optical uses quality-controlled acetate and strict testing to...

How long do acetate frames last? Acetate frames typically last three to five years with normal daily wear. With careful use and good maintenance, many frames last longer. The exact lifespan depends on the acetate grade, hinge quality, surface finish, and how the frame is worn and stored. Low-grade acetate with weak hardware may fail in one to two years. READSUN Optical produces quality-contr...

How do you ensure on-time delivery? Orders are fully tracked through READSUN’s digital milestone management system. Production is scheduled by key process, with materials and components tracked, and exceptions handled promptly to ensure on-time delivery. How the schedule is held Orders staged for collection Milestone tracking: material release, milling, assembly, polishing, QC and packing are e...

How strong is your design capability? READSUN combines innovative materials, precision engineering, and fashion trend analysis to produce high-quality and market-relevant optical frames. The three capabilities behind that Design proven as a physical sample Material knowledge: acetate, metal and injection each behave differently; a design that ignores the material becomes an expensive sample. Pr...