Pupillary distance is the measurement of the space between your pupils as measured in millimeters. This measurement is important for sizing the frames of your glasses. If your lenses are off center they will not direct light into your eye properly, resulting in vision disruptions or headaches. Measuring your pupillary distance accurately will ensure that your glasses fit your face properly, so enlisting a friend help to you with the measurement may help. Making multiple measurements and averaging the results will ensure a valid pupillary distance measurement.
Stand in front of a mirror close enough that you will be able to accurately read the millimeter measurement on the measuring tape or ruler. Hold the tape parallel to the ground and hold the edge directly underneath the center of your right pupil. Keep your eyes focused ahead of you and use your peripheral vision to mark your measurements.
Pinch your fingers at the spot on the tape or ruler where the center of your left pupil falls. Keep the measuring tape or ruler as steady as possible while measuring. Mark the spot using a pencil and record the measurement. Measure the pupillary distance two or three more times, recording each measurement in millimeters as you go.
Add all of your pupillary distance measurements. Divide this sum by the total number of measurements you made to determine the average pupillary distance. This will be the most accurate measurement of your pupillary distance without going to an optometrist for an official measure.
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Anthony Diaz de la Vega has been writing professionally since 2007. His work has appeared on the Celebrity Net Worth website, among other online entities. Vega earned his Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Alma College.
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