A staggering 50% of Brits have been caught out by ‘resting squint face’ – the act of narrowing their eyes and furrowing their brows while trying to focus on screens and devices – leading to some uncomfortable misunderstandings.
A survey of 2,000 individuals revealed that 27% have been wrongly accused of being impolite or aloof when they were just squinting to see clearly. The poll suggests that squinting can make people look uncomfortable (19%), confused (14%), or tense (13%). One in five (21%) even went as far as to say it makes them appear angry.
Around 17% of workers confessed that their colleagues see them as less approachable when they’re squinting. Interestingly, one in six admitted they actively avoid approaching someone who appears to be squinting.
The study was commissioned by Specsavers, which came up with the term ‘resting squint face’, and produced a video highlighting the everyday blunders caused by excessive squinting.
Dr Josie Forte, an optometrist for the brand, said: “Most of us will develop presbyopia as we age due to subtle changes in the eye’s lens. Squinting – whether at a screen, when reading, or using a phone – is often an early sign.
“Presbyopia is a natural part of ageing and nothing to fear, but it’s important to see an optician if you’re squinting regularly or relying on habits like holding things at arm’s length.”
The survey also unveiled some truly mortifying moments resulting from poor vision.
From waving to the wrong person (13%), to sending an email riddled with spelling mistakes (nine%) or tripping or bumping into objects (eight%).
In addition to causing embarrassment, screen habits are also leading to physical symptoms such as eye discomfort, reported by 45%.
More than a third (37%) have had headaches and 31% experienced blurred vision due to staring at a screen for longer than an hour.
Furthermore, 42% of those polled, via OnePoll, are worried that squinting could lead to wrinkles. And despite being a common ailment, only 27% of those asked had actually heard of presbyopia, which could be indicated by excessive squinting.
Dr Josie Forte added: “The good news is it’s easily corrected – an eye test can confirm the cause, and your optician can recommend the best solution, from reading glasses to varifocals or contact lenses, so you can see clearly again.”