Millions of Britons may have 'resting squint face' as a result of an undiagnosed eye condition

Millions of Britons could have an undiagnosed eye condition that experts say may be the cause of ‘resting squint face’.

If someone narrows their eyes and furrows their brow while focusing on screens and devices they may have presbyopia – the gradual loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on near objects.

A poll of 2,000 people by Specsavers found that half of people say they regularly squint at their phones, while 27 per cent say the problem has led them to be mistaken for being rude or standoffish when they were just squinting to see clearly.

One in six actively avoid approaching someone who looks like they’re squinting.

And 17 per cent of workers said that colleagues find them less approachable when they’re squinting. One in five even went as far as to say it makes them appear angry.

Presbyopia also leads to long-sightedness and is common in older age. It is estimated around 23 million people in Britain may have the condition to a degree.

Over time, the eye lens – through which light enters – takes on a firmer texture. This means light does not reach the retina at the right angle, reducing the ability to see things up close. Most people over 40 will experience some level of presbyopia.

Dr Josie Forte, an optometrist at Specsavers, explains: ‘Most of us will develop presbyopia as we get older, and early signs are easy to spot – frequently squinting at your phone or laptop, holding a book at arm’s length, or increasing font size. Squinting isn’t about natural eye shape; it’s tightening the muscles around your eyes to focus, and if you’re doing this regularly it can be a sign of presbyopia.

‘The good news is a simple eye check can quickly identify presbyopia and an optician can recommend the right treatment – whether that’s reading glasses, varifocals or contact lenses – to help you see clearly again.

‘What’s more, workers who use screens are legally entitled to a free eye test funded by their employer, and if glasses are needed for work the employer must cover the cost.’