Lens Options for Functional Eyewear

Keeping with the theme of Healthy Vision Month, it is important to know about the technology that is available on eyewear to help protect and enhance your healthy vision. Whether you sit in front of a computer all day or are on the road driving, your eyewear can offer many added benefits. From anti-reflective options to photochromic lenses, there are no limits to what is available to enrich your day-to-day lifestyle.

Scratch resistance
Under the normal wear and tear of daily life, eyeglass lenses will inevitably get scratched and can in turn hinder your vision. No eyewear lens material is scratch-proof. However, a lens that is treated front and back with a clear, hard coating does become more resistant to scratching. Most plastic lenses, including high-index and polycarbonate, have built-in scratch resistant coatings. Since it is sometimes optional, make sure your optician knows you want scratch-resistant lenses in your prescription eyeglasses.

Ultraviolet Treatment
Another lens treatment that is beneficial but invisible to the naked eye is ultraviolet (UV) protection. Just as we use sunscreen to keep the sun’s UV rays from harming our skin, UV treatment in eyeglass lenses blocks those same rays from damaging our eyes. Overexposure to ultraviolet light is thought to be a cause of cataracts, retinal damage and other eye problems.

Anti-Reflective Options
To improve both the vision through the lenses and the appearance of eyewear, an anti-reflective (AR) option can be applied. AR options consist of several layers of metal oxides applied to the front and back lens surfaces. Each layer is scientifically calculated to block reflected light. The result is to see a reduction in glare, annoying reflections and halos around lights. This is a great safety benefit when you are driving at night.
AR options reduce both internal and external reflections on the lenses themselves, creating a nicer cosmetic appearance. Internal reflections appear as rings that can make lenses look thick. External reflections mask your eyes from a clear, complete view when someone is looking at you.

Photochromic Lenses and Tints
Photochromic lenses change from light to dark depending upon how much UV light one is exposed to. These are very convenient for those who don’t want to have a separate pair of sunglasses, but need the extra tint and UV protection. However, these lenses are not as appropriate for sunwear in the car, because most windshields block out the UV rays needed to make the lenses turn dark. Early photochromic lenses were only available in glass, but newer technology has made them available in plastic, polycarbonate and high-index. Photochromic lenses are available in brown or gray colors.
As opposed to lenses that change from light to dark, a patient may opt for a tint that stays consistent all the time. Tints can be chosen in virtually any shade and color under the sun. Lighter tints are generally used as fashion tints on everyday eyewear, while darker tints can be used on sunglasses. A tint can be solid, covering the entire lens, or can be applied as a gradient, starting darker at the top of the lens and lightening towards the bottom.
Regardless of tint choice, photochromic lenses and tints can be very beneficial in blocking light from photosensitive patients and “softening” lights in everyday activities.
Whatever your day to day lifestyle, there is no doubt there are some lens options that could benefit and protect your vision. Come in to First Look Eyewear today and let our experienced staff educate you as to what is available.