WHAT IS PUPILLARY DISTANCE (PD)?
Pupillary Distance, commonly known as PD, is the measurement in millimeters between the centers of your two pupils. Measuring your PD accurately is essential when ordering prescription glasses, as it helps opticians align the optical centers of your lenses with your pupils for clear, comfortable vision.
HOW IMPORTANT IS PUPILLARY DISTANCE?
Without PD, it can be difficult to order accurately fitted glasses, as it determines the correct alignment of the optical centers with your pupils. Additionally, experts recommend measuring your PD accurately to ensure optimal lens alignment, clear vision, and comfortable wear.
STEPS TO MEASURING YOUR PD YOURSELF
1 - Start with a straight “mm” ruler, a pencil or pen, and a mirror.
2 - While looking straight in the mirror, place the ruler on the bridge of your nose.
3 - Make sure that the start of the ruler is directly below the center of one eye’s pupil.
4 - Hold the ruler (keeping it steady and parallel to the floor); mark the location on the ruler of the other eye’s
pupil.
5 - Measure the distance in millimeters between the two marks. That distance will be your PD.
6 - Repeat this process a couple of times to ensure you have an accurate measurement.
Please Note:
In most cases, PD value ranges from 57 to 65 mm, with the most common one being 63 mm. At times you will find PD written as 63/61.
In such cases the first value is for Distance PD and the other value 61 is near PD. It is highly recommended to get your PD from your optometrist if you have high power or if you are going to order bifocal, progressive or computer lenses.
