Plastic frame glasses in Pakistan are priced from PKR 1,500 to PKR 5,000, covering everything from basic injection-moulded frames to hand-finished Italian-style acetate. Plastic frames dominate the global eyewear market because they offer bolder colours, thicker shapes, and lighter weight than most metals — all at accessible prices. This guide compares the three main plastic types, highlights their strengths and weaknesses, and helps you choose the right one at Chashmaywaly.
Types of Plastic Frame Materials
Acetate
Acetate is a plant-derived cellulose plastic that is the gold standard for quality eyewear frames. It is made from cotton fibre and wood pulp, layered and polished to create rich colours and patterns — tortoiseshell, marble, gradient, and solid hues.
- Price: PKR 2,000–5,000
- Weight: 20–30g
- Pros: Richest colour options, hypoallergenic, hand-polishable, premium feel
- Cons: Can soften in extreme heat, less flexible than TR90, requires more careful handling
TR90 (Grilamid)
TR90 is a Swiss-developed thermoplastic polyamide known for extreme flexibility and near-indestructible durability. You can literally bend a TR90 frame in half and it springs back. It is the go-to material for sports eyewear and children's glasses.
- Price: PKR 1,500–3,500
- Weight: 12–20g
- Pros: Ultra-flexible, extremely light, hypoallergenic, heat-resistant up to 350°C
- Cons: Limited colour/pattern variety compared to acetate, cannot be hand-polished
Injection-Moulded Plastic
The budget tier. Generic plastic frames mass-produced by injection moulding. Common in the PKR 1,500–2,000 range and available in every market and online store across Pakistan.
- Price: PKR 1,500–2,000
- Weight: 18–28g
- Pros: Cheapest option, widely available, decent for occasional wear
- Cons: Less durable, colour fades over time, can feel cheap to the touch
Plastic Frame Price Table — Pakistan 2026
| Material | Price (PKR) | Durability | Flexibility | Colour Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Injection-Moulded | 1,500 – 2,000 | Moderate | Low | Basic solids |
| TR90 | 1,500 – 3,500 | Very High | Excellent | Solids, matte finishes |
| Standard Acetate | 2,000 – 3,500 | High | Moderate | Tortoiseshell, gradients, patterns |
| Premium Acetate | 3,500 – 5,000 | High | Moderate | Multi-layer, crystal, hand-polished |
Acetate vs TR90 — Which Should You Choose?
| Factor | Acetate | TR90 |
|---|---|---|
| Style Priority | Best — unmatched colours and patterns | Good — but limited to solid colours |
| Durability | Strong but can snap under extreme force | Nearly indestructible — bends and returns |
| Weight | 20–30g | 12–20g |
| Heat Resistance | Softens above 70°C (car dashboards!) | Withstands up to 350°C |
| Best For | Fashion-conscious buyers, office wear | Athletes, kids, rough handlers |
| Skin Safety | Hypoallergenic | Hypoallergenic |
Why Plastic Frames Are Popular in Pakistan
- Bold colours match vibrant wardrobes: Pakistani fashion thrives on colour — from lawn prints to wedding embroidery. Plastic frames in red, green, blue, and tortoiseshell complement Eastern outfits better than thin metal frames.
- Hide thick lenses: Thick acetate frames conceal the edge of strong prescription lenses, making them ideal for people with prescriptions above ±4.00.
- No skin reactions: Both acetate and TR90 are hypoallergenic — a significant advantage in Pakistan's hot, humid climate where metal frames can cause irritation.
- Affordable entry point: Starting from PKR 1,500, quality plastic frames are accessible for students and first-time glasses wearers.
Plastic Frame Styles Trending in 2026
- Thick acetate rectangles: Bold, intellectual look favoured by men. Black, tortoise, and transparent finishes.
- Oversized acetate cat eye: Statement piece for women. Explore cat eye options.
- TR90 sport frames: Lightweight, wraparound designs for active lifestyles. See sports sunglasses.
- Crystal/transparent acetate: The clear-frame trend continues strong. Read our transparent glasses guide.
- Two-tone acetate: Frames with one colour on the outside and a different colour lining the inside — visible when viewed from the side.
Care Tips for Plastic Frames
- Avoid heat: Never leave acetate frames on a car dashboard, near a stove, or in direct sunlight for extended periods. They soften and warp. TR90 is immune to this problem.
- Clean with water: Rinse under lukewarm water and dry with a microfiber cloth. Avoid alcohol-based cleaners on acetate — they can strip the polish.
- Store flat: If your frames do not fold flat, store them in a hard case in the arms-up position.
- Avoid hair products: Hairspray, gel, and oil-based products damage acetate finishes over time. Put on glasses after styling your hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest plastic frame option in Pakistan?
Injection-moulded and budget TR90 frames start at PKR 1,500 at Chashmaywaly. These are suitable for daily wear and prescription lenses.
Is acetate better than TR90?
It depends on your priorities. Acetate is better for style variety and premium aesthetics. TR90 is better for durability, flexibility, and lightweight comfort. Neither is objectively "better" — they serve different needs.
Can plastic frames hold progressive lenses?
Yes. Most plastic frames have adequate lens height (28mm+) for progressive lenses. Thick acetate frames are especially popular among bifocal and progressive wearers because they hide lens thickness at the edges.
Do plastic frames cause allergies?
Acetate and TR90 are both hypoallergenic. Cheap injection-moulded plastics very rarely cause reactions, but it is possible if they contain recycled mixed plastics. If skin sensitivity is a concern, stick to TR90 or quality acetate.
How long do plastic frames last?
Acetate frames last 3–5 years with proper care. TR90 frames can last even longer — 5+ years — thanks to their superior flexibility and heat resistance. Budget injection-moulded frames typically last 1–2 years before colour fading or hinge issues appear.
