Prism Glasses

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Prism Glasses

Prism glasses may effectively treat eye conditions such as double vision or other binocular vision difficulties. Our eye movements are controlled by six different muscles in each eye, and if one of these muscles is weak, it could cause eye strain, headaches, or even double vision. 

What are prism lenses?

Prism lenses may be prescribed by eye doctors but do not correct any refractive errors like farsightedness or nearsightedness, as they do not contain any focusing power. Temporary prism lenses, called Fresnel prisms, are made of vinyl and are attached to your eyeglasses. This is an excellent option for those wanting to try prism lenses before getting permanent ones or if your double vision is temporary. More permanent prism lenses are usually made of plastic or glass, are wedge or triangle shaped and are infused into regular lens prescriptions. 

How do prism glasses work?

In order to see clearly, light entering the eye must focus on the retina, the area at the back of the eye where light images are translated and sent to the brain. When your eyes are misaligned, they don’t move accurately together, and images are formed on different parts of the retinas, causing double vision. 

Prism glasses compensate for this misalignment by bending and redirecting the light rays on the retina, aligning and producing a clear image. This bending of light improves eye alignment, helping you to see comfortably and prevent double vision.

Why do people see double?

Double vision, or diplopia, is a condition in which you see two of everything. Any misalignment of the eyes may cause you to see double, making it difficult to judge distances, read and perform everyday tasks. Double vision may signify a more severe problem, so you should speak with your eye doctor if you experience it. 

Prism glasses for double vision

Double vision can sometimes be treated with eye exercises, or your doctor may give you a temporary prism to attach to your glasses. If the temporary prisms help your double vision, prisms may then be added to your prescription lenses. A prism bends the light before it travels through the eye and directs it to the right place on the retina, allowing the brain to fuse the two images together to produce one clear image.

What do prism glasses look like?

If using temporary prisms, these are typically more visible as they are attached to your glasses. If your eye doctor prescribes prism lenses for long-term use, these prisms will be fused into your regular lenses. They will look the same as before, but the glass on one side might be thicker. If this is a concern, consider a thicker frame to hide it. 

What does a prescription for a prism look like?

Your glasses prescription will show you all of the details on the type of vision you have. Numbers indicate how strong lenses need to be and where they should be positioned within the frame. If there is a number in the ‘PRISM’ portion of your prescription, you have a weak eye muscle that needs correction. The ‘BASE’ section will explain how the prism should be aligned. 

PRISM – diopters measure the amount of prism correction needed (from 0.5PD, 1.0PD, 1.5PD and so on) and indicate how misaligned your eyes are. If the power required is high, it can be split into two since alignment is a function of both eyes. 

BASE– depending on your double vision, the prism is placed vertically or horizontally in one or both lenses. It may be on the outer edge of the lens (Base Out, BO), the inner edge (Base In, BI), or at the top (Base Up, BU) or bottom edge (Base Down, BD).

In the above prescription, between the axis and ADD value, there are the prism specifications. There are two main factors to highlight when you read your prescription with prism lenses:

  1. The first value will be indicated by a number between 0.5 and 5.0. This refers to the amount of prism correction needed. Some specialised labs can also produce prescriptions above 5.0.
  2. This number is then followed by B (base). The base is the part of the lens that will be thicker and indicate the direction of the prism. There is BO (base out), BI (base in), BD (base down) and BU (base up).

How to order prism glasses online

Ordering prism glasses at SmartBuyGlasses is easy. After choosing the pair that best suits you, select your lenses. First, decide the type (distance, progressive, reading, or non-prescription). You will then be prompted to either fill in your prescription manually, upload it, send it later, or choose from your account. Below are the details for entering manually.

  1. Enter distance corrected under SPH for the left and right eye 
  2. Astigmatism details go under CYL and AXIS
  3. PD* (pupillary distance)
  4. Select ‘add prism’ for a small fee and input the prism correction values 

*PD is necessary to calculate correctly; an incorrect value can cause visual discomfort. You can get the correct measurement at your local optician or calculate it yourself with these easy steps in measuring your PD.

Ask our in-house opticians if you have any doubts about how to read and fill out your prescription online.

Prism lenses for daily life

Double vision can be uncomfortable and prevent you from doing everyday activities. Adding a prism to your lenses can restore your vision and improve your quality of life. With an endless possibility of frame choices and an easy way to enter your prescription online, there is no reason double vision should continue impacting your life. 

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

Prism Glasses

Prism glasses may effectively treat eye conditions such as double vision or other binocular vision difficulties. Our eye movements are controlled by six different muscles in each eye, and if one of these muscles is weak, it could cause eye strain, headaches, or even double vision. 

What are prism lenses?

Prism lenses may be prescribed by eye doctors but do not correct any refractive errors like farsightedness or nearsightedness, as they do not contain any focusing power. Temporary prism lenses, called Fresnel prisms, are made of vinyl and are attached to your eyeglasses. This is an excellent option for those wanting to try prism lenses before getting permanent ones or if your double vision is temporary. More permanent prism lenses are usually made of plastic or glass, are wedge or triangle shaped and are infused into regular lens prescriptions. 

How do prism glasses work?

In order to see clearly, light entering the eye must focus on the retina, the area at the back of the eye where light images are translated and sent to the brain. When your eyes are misaligned, they don’t move accurately together, and images are formed on different parts of the retinas, causing double vision. 

Prism glasses compensate for this misalignment by bending and redirecting the light rays on the retina, aligning and producing a clear image. This bending of light improves eye alignment, helping you to see comfortably and prevent double vision.

Why do people see double?

Double vision, or diplopia, is a condition in which you see two of everything. Any misalignment of the eyes may cause you to see double, making it difficult to judge distances, read and perform everyday tasks. Double vision may signify a more severe problem, so you should speak with your eye doctor if you experience it. 

Prism glasses for double vision

Double vision can sometimes be treated with eye exercises, or your doctor may give you a temporary prism to attach to your glasses. If the temporary prisms help your double vision, prisms may then be added to your prescription lenses. A prism bends the light before it travels through the eye and directs it to the right place on the retina, allowing the brain to fuse the two images together to produce one clear image.

What do prism glasses look like?

If using temporary prisms, these are typically more visible as they are attached to your glasses. If your eye doctor prescribes prism lenses for long-term use, these prisms will be fused into your regular lenses. They will look the same as before, but the glass on one side might be thicker. If this is a concern, consider a thicker frame to hide it. 

What does a prescription for a prism look like?

Your glasses prescription will show you all of the details on the type of vision you have. Numbers indicate how strong lenses need to be and where they should be positioned within the frame. If there is a number in the ‘PRISM’ portion of your prescription, you have a weak eye muscle that needs correction. The ‘BASE’ section will explain how the prism should be aligned. 

PRISM – diopters measure the amount of prism correction needed (from 0.5PD, 1.0PD, 1.5PD and so on) and indicate how misaligned your eyes are. If the power required is high, it can be split into two since alignment is a function of both eyes. 

BASE– depending on your double vision, the prism is placed vertically or horizontally in one or both lenses. It may be on the outer edge of the lens (Base Out, BO), the inner edge (Base In, BI), or at the top (Base Up, BU) or bottom edge (Base Down, BD).

In the above prescription, between the axis and ADD value, there are the prism specifications. There are two main factors to highlight when you read your prescription with prism lenses:

  1. The first value will be indicated by a number between 0.5 and 5.0. This refers to the amount of prism correction needed. Some specialised labs can also produce prescriptions above 5.0.
  2. This number is then followed by B (base). The base is the part of the lens that will be thicker and indicate the direction of the prism. There is BO (base out), BI (base in), BD (base down) and BU (base up).

How to order prism glasses online

Ordering prism glasses at SmartBuyGlasses is easy. After choosing the pair that best suits you, select your lenses. First, decide the type (distance, progressive, reading, or non-prescription). You will then be prompted to either fill in your prescription manually, upload it, send it later, or choose from your account. Below are the details for entering manually.

  1. Enter distance corrected under SPH for the left and right eye 
  2. Astigmatism details go under CYL and AXIS
  3. PD* (pupillary distance)
  4. Select ‘add prism’ for a small fee and input the prism correction values 

*PD is necessary to calculate correctly; an incorrect value can cause visual discomfort. You can get the correct measurement at your local optician or calculate it yourself with these easy steps in measuring your PD.

Ask our in-house opticians if you have any doubts about how to read and fill out your prescription online.

Prism lenses for daily life

Double vision can be uncomfortable and prevent you from doing everyday activities. Adding a prism to your lenses can restore your vision and improve your quality of life. With an endless possibility of frame choices and an easy way to enter your prescription online, there is no reason double vision should continue impacting your life. 

Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

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Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

Sunglasses are a versatile accessory; they protect your eyes and make you look cool. You may put a lot of thought into the frame of your glasses or sunglasses, but choosing the right lenses is just as important. With so many lenses available, it may be difficult to understand which are right for you. The best lenses for an individual will depend on your unique visual needs and what you hope to get from your shades. Photochromic and polarised lenses are two of the many lens choices which offer excellent UV protection, but many wonder, what exactly is the difference?

What is the difference between photochromic and polarised lenses?

Photochromic and polarised lenses both effectively protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. They’re both available in a diverse range of frame styles and are highly beneficial to wearers. The difference? Simply put, photochromic lenses start clear and darken upon coming into contact with UV light. In contrast, polarised lenses are always tinted and have a special coating that’s especially good at blocking glare.

What are photochromic lenses?

Photochromic lenses, also known as Transitions® lenses, are an excellent choice for people who are sick of switching between their prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses. As light conditions change, so do the lenses. And the best part, you never have to change your frames. Inside, away from UV light, photochromic lenses are clear, but as soon as you step outside and UV rays are present, they gradually darken.

Plastic photochromic lenses and glass photochromic lenses use the same technology but are a bit different in their composition. Plastic photochromic lenses include molecules of silver halide that are usually layered or embedded evenly onto the surface of the lens, providing an even tint when exposed to UV light conditions. Glass photochromic lenses contain the molecules within the glass. This can sometimes cause an irregular tint on lenses with a higher prescription due to the uneven thickness of the lens.

How do photochromic lenses work?

It’s all about a chemical reaction. Photochromic lenses have light-sensitive molecules that shift their structure when combined with UV light. When this light is absorbed, the lenses darken. Away from the UV light, the process reverses, and the lenses become clear again. On average, photochromic lenses darken in 30–60 seconds and clear a bit slower in 2–3 minutes.

The molecules in photochromic lenses are not only sensitive to the presence of UV light but also the amount of it. A lot of UV light and they will change more quickly; less light and they’ll change more slowly. If you find yourself in the shade, you might notice your lenses darkening less than in direct sunlight. UV light is still present in low light, overcast skies, causing photochromic lenses to darken even in these conditions. 

What are polarised lenses?

Polarised lenses are tinted lenses with a special coating that blocks glare, boosts visibility, increases clarity and enhances contrast to make your surroundings more vibrant. Polarised sunglasses are handy for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, as they block out reflections that come from rain, snow, or water. When the sun reflects off these surfaces, it causes a powerful, horizontal glare that may cause eye damage and strain.

How do polarised lenses work?

Polarised lenses are coated in a chemical filter that acts as a vertical blocker and won’t allow any horizontal wavelengths through. When light hits a flat object, like a lake, ski slope, or metal sheet, the reflection is in a single, concentrated direction, creating a bright polarised glare. Polarised glare means the light waves are mostly aligned in one direction, in this case, horizontally. As polarised lenses are designed to block this horizontally polarised light, their chemical filter absorbs it, letting you see clearly.

Advantages and disadvantages of photochromic lenses

One of the biggest advantages is how cost-effective and convenient photochromic lenses can be. With no need for a separate pair, one pair of glasses acts as both your eyeglasses and sunglasses. Photochromic glasses prevent you from worrying about changing your glasses upon entering or exiting a building or the sunshine. Photochromic lenses are beneficial when the weather changes throughout the day; if the sun is going in and out of the clouds, you’re on the slopes or hiking in the woods.

While photochromic glasses benefit many wearers, there are some disadvantages to consider. Temperature impacts the rate at which photochromic lenses darken or clear up. The lenses usually darken more fully in cold weather but take longer to clear. In warmer weather, they may not darken as much but will become clear quicker. Most photochromic lenses perform well for three-plus years, but eventually, they will become less reactive to light conditions and take longer to shift between clear and tinted. 

It is important to note that some photochromic lenses are unsuitable for driving because the car windshield blocks the UV rays that generally cause the lenses to adjust. Some models, including the Transitions XTRActive® lenses, have more photochromic molecules allowing them to transition even while in the car. These lenses always have a very light base tint and will not go as dark in the car as outdoors. 

Advantages and disadvantages of polarised lenses

Whether hiking, cycling, or boating, polarised sunglasses are a great option. The lenses are designed to reduce glare and enhance outdoor vision, helping improve performance while making colours look more vibrant. Polarised lenses are well suited for driving during the day, as glare from other cars, or the road is a common scenario. With reduced glare comes a lower risk of eye strain. Polarised lenses are an excellent solution for people with light sensitivity, and they may even be recommended to patients who have had cataract surgery.

With many advantages, there are some things to consider before buying polarised lenses. Polarised lenses may reduce vision clarity when looking at LCD screens or certain displays. For anyone working in a job where looking at display screens is expected, you should test polarised lenses before purchasing. 

While polarised lenses are beneficial in snowy conditions, they may make it harder to see patches of ice. If you’re skiing, snowboarding, driving, or walking where there might be lots of ice, it may be best to avoid your polarised sunglasses and reach for another pair. Another disadvantage is that polarised lenses are always tinted, so if you wear prescription glasses, you will need to carry your glasses and sunglasses. 

Is photochromic or polarised better?

Photochromic and polarised lenses have distinct qualities and advantages, making them great options for your collection. Generally, neither is considered better than the other. Photochromic lenses are a great option for those who are always on the run, with one pair of glasses serving as eyeglasses and sunglasses. Polarised lenses block out glares and reflections, not only improving vision but providing a level of safety. 

Both lenses will protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet light. The best choice is always individual, so it is encouraged that you review the functionalities, consider your environment and budget, and compare this to your lifestyle. If you still have questions, head to our Optical Centre and speak with one of our opticians. 

Photochromic or polarised lenses, which to buy?

Depending on what you use your sunglasses for, one may be a better choice than the other. If a reduction in glare will benefit your performance in fishing or cycling, for example, you may choose polarised lenses. Photochromic lenses may be best for you if you need a pair of sunglasses for everyday wear.

Lenses don’t have to be complicated; consider the differences and your needs, so you can buy and wear what works for you. With so many options, it’s always best to be informed about your choices. Learn more about lenses, and remember, whether you purchase photochromic or polarised, make sure they fit into frames that make you feel confident.

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

Sunglasses are a versatile accessory; they protect your eyes and make you look cool. You may put a lot of thought into the frame of your glasses or sunglasses, but choosing the right lenses is just as important. With so many lenses available, it may be difficult to understand which are right for you. The best lenses for an individual will depend on your unique visual needs and what you hope to get from your shades. Photochromic and polarised lenses are two of the many lens choices which offer excellent UV protection, but many wonder, what exactly is the difference?

What is the difference between photochromic and polarised lenses?

Photochromic and polarised lenses both effectively protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. They’re both available in a diverse range of frame styles and are highly beneficial to wearers. The difference? Simply put, photochromic lenses start clear and darken upon coming into contact with UV light. In contrast, polarised lenses are always tinted and have a special coating that’s especially good at blocking glare.

What are photochromic lenses?

Photochromic lenses, also known as Transitions® lenses, are an excellent choice for people who are sick of switching between their prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses. As light conditions change, so do the lenses. And the best part, you never have to change your frames. Inside, away from UV light, photochromic lenses are clear, but as soon as you step outside and UV rays are present, they gradually darken.

Plastic photochromic lenses and glass photochromic lenses use the same technology but are a bit different in their composition. Plastic photochromic lenses include molecules of silver halide that are usually layered or embedded evenly onto the surface of the lens, providing an even tint when exposed to UV light conditions. Glass photochromic lenses contain the molecules within the glass. This can sometimes cause an irregular tint on lenses with a higher prescription due to the uneven thickness of the lens.

How do photochromic lenses work?

It’s all about a chemical reaction. Photochromic lenses have light-sensitive molecules that shift their structure when combined with UV light. When this light is absorbed, the lenses darken. Away from the UV light, the process reverses, and the lenses become clear again. On average, photochromic lenses darken in 30–60 seconds and clear a bit slower in 2–3 minutes.

The molecules in photochromic lenses are not only sensitive to the presence of UV light but also the amount of it. A lot of UV light and they will change more quickly; less light and they’ll change more slowly. If you find yourself in the shade, you might notice your lenses darkening less than in direct sunlight. UV light is still present in low light, overcast skies, causing photochromic lenses to darken even in these conditions. 

What are polarised lenses?

Polarised lenses are tinted lenses with a special coating that blocks glare, boosts visibility, increases clarity and enhances contrast to make your surroundings more vibrant. Polarised sunglasses are handy for people who spend a lot of time outdoors, as they block out reflections that come from rain, snow, or water. When the sun reflects off these surfaces, it causes a powerful, horizontal glare that may cause eye damage and strain.

How do polarised lenses work?

Polarised lenses are coated in a chemical filter that acts as a vertical blocker and won’t allow any horizontal wavelengths through. When light hits a flat object, like a lake, ski slope, or metal sheet, the reflection is in a single, concentrated direction, creating a bright polarised glare. Polarised glare means the light waves are mostly aligned in one direction, in this case, horizontally. As polarised lenses are designed to block this horizontally polarised light, their chemical filter absorbs it, letting you see clearly.

Advantages and disadvantages of photochromic lenses

One of the biggest advantages is how cost-effective and convenient photochromic lenses can be. With no need for a separate pair, one pair of glasses acts as both your eyeglasses and sunglasses. Photochromic glasses prevent you from worrying about changing your glasses upon entering or exiting a building or the sunshine. Photochromic lenses are beneficial when the weather changes throughout the day; if the sun is going in and out of the clouds, you’re on the slopes or hiking in the woods.

While photochromic glasses benefit many wearers, there are some disadvantages to consider. Temperature impacts the rate at which photochromic lenses darken or clear up. The lenses usually darken more fully in cold weather but take longer to clear. In warmer weather, they may not darken as much but will become clear quicker. Most photochromic lenses perform well for three-plus years, but eventually, they will become less reactive to light conditions and take longer to shift between clear and tinted. 

It is important to note that some photochromic lenses are unsuitable for driving because the car windshield blocks the UV rays that generally cause the lenses to adjust. Some models, including the Transitions XTRActive® lenses, have more photochromic molecules allowing them to transition even while in the car. These lenses always have a very light base tint and will not go as dark in the car as outdoors. 

Advantages and disadvantages of polarised lenses

Whether hiking, cycling, or boating, polarised sunglasses are a great option. The lenses are designed to reduce glare and enhance outdoor vision, helping improve performance while making colours look more vibrant. Polarised lenses are well suited for driving during the day, as glare from other cars, or the road is a common scenario. With reduced glare comes a lower risk of eye strain. Polarised lenses are an excellent solution for people with light sensitivity, and they may even be recommended to patients who have had cataract surgery.

With many advantages, there are some things to consider before buying polarised lenses. Polarised lenses may reduce vision clarity when looking at LCD screens or certain displays. For anyone working in a job where looking at display screens is expected, you should test polarised lenses before purchasing. 

While polarised lenses are beneficial in snowy conditions, they may make it harder to see patches of ice. If you’re skiing, snowboarding, driving, or walking where there might be lots of ice, it may be best to avoid your polarised sunglasses and reach for another pair. Another disadvantage is that polarised lenses are always tinted, so if you wear prescription glasses, you will need to carry your glasses and sunglasses. 

Is photochromic or polarised better?

Photochromic and polarised lenses have distinct qualities and advantages, making them great options for your collection. Generally, neither is considered better than the other. Photochromic lenses are a great option for those who are always on the run, with one pair of glasses serving as eyeglasses and sunglasses. Polarised lenses block out glares and reflections, not only improving vision but providing a level of safety. 

Both lenses will protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet light. The best choice is always individual, so it is encouraged that you review the functionalities, consider your environment and budget, and compare this to your lifestyle. If you still have questions, head to our Optical Centre and speak with one of our opticians. 

Photochromic or polarised lenses, which to buy?

Depending on what you use your sunglasses for, one may be a better choice than the other. If a reduction in glare will benefit your performance in fishing or cycling, for example, you may choose polarised lenses. Photochromic lenses may be best for you if you need a pair of sunglasses for everyday wear. Lenses don’t have to be complicated; consider the differences and your needs, so you can buy and wear what works for you. With so many options, it’s always best to be informed about your choices. Learn more about lenses, and remember, whether you purchase photochromic or polarised, make sure they fit into frames that make you feel confident.

What are Plano Lenses?

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What are Plano Lenses?

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You might as well hop on the wagon with glasses wearers. Why you may ask? Glasses have many benefits even if you have perfect vision. That’s why we are going to uncover what plano lenses are and why you, with 20/20 vision, may want to grab yourself a pair.

You’ll see that plano lenses have perks that are great for the workplace, sports, and even Hollywood!

What are plano lenses? 

Not all glasses require prescription lenses and when this occurs specs can be fitted with 2 types of non-prescription lenses: demo or plano lenses. 

Plano lenses do not have any value power, therefore they do not help correct your vision. In the eyewear industry, plano-convex lenses are flat and do not refract or focus light through the lens. So if you have blurry vision, see double, or can’t read the words right in front of you then plano lenses aren’t going to help.

You can always have an eye test to find out if you do not require any prescription to correct your vision. If so, your prescription will indicate the need for plano lenses by using plano, PL, or 0.00 under sphere (SPH).

Another type of non-prescription is demo lenses and they are mainly used for demonstration purposes, like glasses displays in retail stores or sometimes online. Demo lenses help you understand what the glasses or sunglasses look like before you purchase them.


Plano vs Demo lenses

Plano and demo lenses are not the same and should not be confused. Plano lenses are often made from CR39 lens material and are thicker than demo lenses. In addition to this, extra protective lens coatings can be added to plano lenses that can’t be added to demo lenses, like the following:

• Anti-scratch coating

• Blue light filter

• Tinted lens coatings

Demo lenses are thinner, do not have any additional lens coatings, and sometimes also have printed brand labels on the lens. They are like a simulation of what the glasses can look like.


Why wear plano lenses?

The various reasons why you’d want or need to wear plano lenses are:

1. Aesthetic reasons. This can fall into wanting to simply change up your look, make a fashion statement, or even if you are next in line to play the iconic Clark Kent. Yes, even actors can use plano lenses for cosmetic purposes only, without any vision correction

2. Safety reasons. In many workplaces, companies have to follow protective eyewear regulations to help prevent eye-related injuries.Safety glassescan help protect from hazardous elements such as chemicals. You can also protect your eyes from glare or blue light emitted from digital devices with lens coatings added to blue light glasses

3. Eye health issues. If you are blind in one eye you may benefit from protecting your eyes using plano lenses


Do you need plano lenses?

If you are looking for eyewear for any of the reasons mentioned previously then you may need plano lenses. 

Love wearing glasses because they make you look smarter, trendy, or give your look a certain edge? Then you can wear any style of glasses or sunglasses with plano lenses and benefit from protective lens filters, like UV protection. Plano lenses in glasses can also serve as protective eyewear, whether or not you need vision correction. 

You can even find plano contact lenses. What does plano mean in contact lenses you may ask? Well, essentially plano contact lenses are the same as plano lenses in glasses, they do not help correct any visual impairments. Usually, plano-colored contact lenses fall into this category of non-prescription contacts that people wear mostly for cosmetic purposes.


Conclusion

Don’t need prescription glasses but still want to benefit from the trends, styles, and protective lens coatings that eyeglasses and sunglasses provide?

Plano lenses are what you are looking for. Eyewear with plano lenses does not have any power value for vision correction and can also be used as PPE (Personal protective eyewear). So whether you need to protect your eyes at work, on holiday, or simply want to look cool, you can with plano lenses. 

Check out a variety of eyewear with quality protective filters to help correct any vision or make you and your 20/20 vision look cooler with SmartBuyGlasses. 

So what’s your reason for rocking plano lenses?

SHOP GLASSES
SHOP CONTACT LENSES

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

What are Plano Lenses?

You might as well hop on the wagon with glasses wearers. Why you may ask? Glasses have many benefits even if you have perfect vision. That’s why we are going to uncover what plano lenses are and why you, with 20/20 vision, may want to grab yourself a pair.

You’ll see that plano lenses have perks that are great for the workplace, sports, and even Hollywood!

What are plano lenses? 

Not all glasses require prescription lenses and when this occurs specs can be fitted with 2 types of non-prescription lenses: demo or plano lenses. 

Plano lenses do not have any value power, therefore they do not help correct your vision. In the eyewear industry, plano-convex lenses are flat and do not refract or focus light through the lens. So if you have blurry vision, see double, or can’t read the words right in front of you then plano lenses aren’t going to help.

You can always have an eye test to find out if you do not require any prescription to correct your vision. If so, your prescription will indicate the need for plano lenses by using plano, PL, or 0.00 under sphere (SPH).

Another type of non-prescription is demo lenses and they are mainly used for demonstration purposes, like glasses displays in retail stores or sometimes online. Demo lenses help you understand what the glasses or sunglasses look like before you purchase them.

Plano vs Demo lenses

Plano and demo lenses are not the same and should not be confused. Plano lenses are often made from CR39 lens material and are thicker than demo lenses. In addition to this, extra protective lens coatings can be added to plano lenses that can’t be added to demo lenses, like the following:

• Anti-scratch coating

• Blue light filter

• Tinted lens coatings

 

Demo lenses are thinner, do not have any additional lens coatings, and sometimes also have printed brand labels on the lens. They are like a simulation of what the glasses can look like.

Why wear plano lenses?

The various reasons why you’d want or need to wear plano lenses are:

1. Aesthetic reasons. This can fall into wanting to simply change up your look, make a fashion statement, or even if you are next in line to play the iconic Clark Kent. Yes, even actors can use plano lenses for cosmetic purposes only, without any vision correction

2. Safety reasons. In many workplaces, companies have to follow protective eyewear regulations to help prevent eye-related injuries.Safety glassescan help protect from hazardous elements such as chemicals. You can also protect your eyes from glare or blue light emitted from digital devices with lens coatings added to blue light glasses

3. Eye health issues. If you are blind in one eye you may benefit from protecting your eyes using plano lenses

Do you need plano lenses?

If you are looking for eyewear for any of the reasons mentioned previously then you may need plano lenses. 

Love wearing glasses because they make you look smarter, trendy, or give your look a certain edge? Then you can wear any style of glasses or sunglasses with plano lenses and benefit from protective lens filters, like UV protection. Plano lenses in glasses can also serve as protective eyewear, whether or not you need vision correction. 

You can even find plano contact lenses. What does plano mean in contact lenses you may ask? Well, essentially plano contact lenses are the same as plano lenses in glasses, they do not help correct any visual impairments. Usually, plano-colored contact lenses fall into this category of non-prescription contacts that people wear mostly for cosmetic purposes.

Conclusion

Don’t need prescription glasses but still want to benefit from the trends, styles, and protective lens coatings that eyeglasses and sunglasses provide?

Plano lenses are what you are looking for. Eyewear with plano lenses does not have any power value for vision correction and can also be used as PPE (Personal protective eyewear). So whether you need to protect your eyes at work, on holiday, or simply want to look cool, you can with plano lenses. 

Check out a variety of eyewear with quality protective filters to help correct any vision or make you and your 20/20 vision look cooler with SmartBuyGlasses. 

So what’s your reason for rocking plano lenses?

SHOP GLASSES
SHOP CONTACT LENSES

Glasses Lens Material – Everything you need to know

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Glasses Lens Material: Your Ultimate Guide

By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Updated On Apr 11, 2023

Types of Lens Materials | Three Main Materials | Lens coatings and add-ons | Polycarbonate vs Plastic | Best material

There are many types of lens material available on the market today, read on to discover which lens is best for your vision and lifestyle!

There is much more to buying eyeglasses than what first meets the eye. It’s not just choosing the right frame, cool shape or funky colours. Glasses lens materials also play an important part in picking the right eyewear for you and your vision.

It may seem like a lot to take in, but this article will guide you through the different qualities of the best glasses lens material!

How many types of lens materials for glasses are there?

There are five main types of lens materials for eyeglasses and sunglasses. Each type of lens material can help correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia.

Before going into the different materials, it can be good to understand the index of refraction. Some materials are categorized by the index of refraction, which indicates how fast light travels through a given material.

Essentially, the higher the refractive index of a material, the slower light moves through it, which results in a more significant bending (refracting) of light rays. With a higher refractive index, less lens material is required to bend light to the same degree as a lens with a lower refractive index. 

In other words, for any eyeglass prescription, a lens made of a material with a high-refractive index will be thinner than a lens made of a material with a lower refractive index.

What are glasses lenses made of? The three main materials

Glass

Glass lenses are among the best glasses lens material. They provide visual clarity and are highly scratch resistant due to their hard surface. 

However, glass lenses are heavy, thick and have a lower impact resistance. Of all the lens materials for glasses, glass must be specifically treated to comply with impact-resistant regulations and can not always fit in every frame design.

Plastic

Plastic (CR-39) is the standard glasses lens material. Plastic lenses offer great optics and vision correction for refractive errors and block out 80% of UV light. Compared to glass lenses, plastic lenses are lighter and less likely to shatter as easily.

However, CR-39 plastic lenses tend to be thicker than other plastic materials as they have a lower index of refraction.

High-Index

High-index lens materials are the thinnest and lightest of all glasses lenses material. They can be used for stronger prescriptions as they look more aesthetically pleasing with thinner lenses. High-index lenses bend light more efficiently as they have a higher index of refraction.

High-index lenses have superior optics and impact resistance, but these factors can depend on the type of high-index material used – glass or plastic. Like many other lens materials, high-index lenses provide quality UV protection.

Lens coatings and add-ons

Lens coatings can also be an important factor to keep in mind when choosing lens materials for your glasses. 

With high-index lenses or polycarbonate, you’ll want to make sure you add an anti-reflective coating to avoid the lenses reflecting too much light – especially when driving. 

With many lens materials, you can also get a  zFORT® Blue light blocking add-on to help protect your eyes from harmful rays emitted by digital devices. In addition, Photochromic filters can be added to nearly all lens materials. With this, you have a pair of glasses that also function as sunglasses – 2-in-1!

Feel free to read our guide on lens coatings to learn more!

DID YOU KNOW?

Lens materials should be chosen based on your prescription, frames and lifestyle. If you think your lens is missing something, add a coating such as  zFORT® Blue light blocking.

How do I know if my lenses are polycarbonate or plastic?

When shopping for glasses, it can take time to determine the type of lens material you are getting. You will probably ask yourself, what are glasses lenses made of? Hopefully, this article will provide some answers to that question. If you are happy with your current glasses lenses material and are wondering whether they are polycarbonate or plastic, there are a few ways to tell. 

Polycarbonate glasses lenses are thinner than plastic glasses. In addition, they are usually lighter and more impact-resistant than plastic glasses lenses. 

You can shop for premium plastic lenses on SmartBuyGlasses and if you’re looking for the same thinness as polycarbonate, high-index lenses are also available on the site.

What is the best eyeglass lens material?

To determine what lens material is best for you, you should have an eye test to determine the requirements of your vision correction. You should also always consult your eye doctor first to find the best suitable lens material for your specific vision correction.

Once you have consulted your optician and have your prescription, you should consider the following factors before making your purchase: Comfort, aesthetics, optics, safety and cost. 

To summarise your options:

  •  Plastic lenses (CR-39) are the most affordable lens material and work better for weaker Rx.
  • Glass lenses are also low-cost but are difficult to pair with certain frame designs and sizes.
  • High index can work best if you want thinner lenses, but they do come at a higher cost.
  • Polycarbonate lenses and Trivex lenses are similar but do present some differences. 

If you wear glasses every day, you’ll want them to fit comfortably, look good and not weigh heavily on your face. Thinner lenses can tick all boxes. Thicker lenses are more noticeable in the frame and tend to be heavier. Thicker lenses are, however, more affordable and suitable for lower vision corrections. 

You can browse through trendy eyewear on our site and find something to accommodate all of your eye needs. If you need more informative advice about how to choose the right glasses, speak to one of our certified online opticians today or visit our Optical Centre.

Glasses Lens Material: Your Ultimate Guide

Types of Lens Materials | Three Main Materials | Lens coatings and add-ons | Polycarbonate vs Plastic | Best Material

By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Updated On Apr 03, 2023

There are many types of lens material available on the market today, read on to discover which lens is best for your vision and lifestyle!

There is much more to buying eyeglasses than what first meets the eye. It’s not just choosing the right frame, cool shape or funky colours. Glasses lens materials also play an important part in picking the right eyewear for you and your vision. 

It may seem like a lot to take in, but this article will guide you through the different qualities of the best glasses lens material!

How many types of lens materials for glasses are there?

There are five main types of lens materials for eyeglasses and sunglasses. Each type of lens material can help correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia.

Before going into the different materials, it can be good to understand the index of refraction. Some materials are categorized by the index of refraction, which indicates how fast light travels through a given material.

What are glasses lenses made of? The three main materials

Glass

Glass lenses are among the best glasses lens material. They provide visual clarity and are highly scratch resistant due to their hard surface. 

However, glass lenses are heavy, thick and have a lower impact resistance. Of all the lens materials for glasses, glass must be specifically treated to comply with impact-resistant regulations and can not always fit in every frame design.

Plastic

Plastic (CR-39) is the standard glasses lens material. Plastic lenses offer great optics and vision correction for refractive errors and block out 80% of UV light. Compared to glass lenses, plastic lenses are lighter and less likely to shatter as easily.

However, CR-39 plastic lenses tend to be thicker than other plastic materials as they have a lower index of refraction.

High-Index

High-index lens materials are the thinnest and lightest of all glasses lenses material. They can be used for stronger prescriptions as they look more aesthetically pleasing with thinner lenses. High-index lenses bend light more efficiently as they have a higher index of refraction.


High-index lenses have superior optics and impact resistance, but these factors can depend on the type of high-index material used – glass or plastic. Like many other lens materials, high-index lenses provide quality UV protection.

Lens coatings and add-ons

Lens coatings can also be an important factor to keep in mind when choosing lens materials for your glasses. 

With high-index lenses or polycarbonate, you’ll want to make sure you add an anti-reflective coating to avoid the lenses reflecting too much light – especially when driving. 

With many lens materials, you can also get a  zFORT® Blue light blocking add-on to help protect your eyes from harmful rays emitted by digital devices. In addition, Photochromic filters can be added to nearly all lens materials. With this, you have a pair of glasses that also function as sunglasses – 2-in-1!

Feel free to read our guide on lens coatings to learn more!

DID YOU KNOW?
Lens materials should be chosen based on your prescription, frames and lifestyle. If you think your lens is missing something, add a coating such as zFORT® Blue light blocking.

How do I know if my lenses are polycarbonate or plastic?

When shopping for glasses, it can take time to determine the type of lens material you are getting. You will probably ask yourself, what are glasses lenses made of? Hopefully, this article will provide some answers to that question. If you are happy with your current glasses lenses material and are wondering whether they are polycarbonate or plastic, there are a few ways to tell. 

Polycarbonate glasses lenses are thinner than plastic glasses. In addition, they are usually lighter and more impact-resistant than plastic glasses lenses. 

You can shop for premium plastic lenses on SmartBuyGlasses  and if you’re looking for the same thinness as polycarbonate, high-index lenses are also available on the site.

What is the best eyeglass lens material?

To determine what lens material is best for you, you should have an eye test to determine the requirements of your vision correction. You should also always consult your eye doctor first to find the best suitable lens material for your specific vision correction.

Once you have consulted your optician and have your prescription, you should consider the following factors before making your purchase: Comfort, aesthetics, optics, safety and cost. 

To summarise your options:

  •  Plastic lenses (CR-39) are the most affordable lens material and work better for weaker Rx.
  • Glass lenses are also low-cost but are difficult to pair with certain frame designs and sizes.
  • High index can work best if you want thinner lenses, but they do come at a higher cost.
  • Polycarbonate lenses and Trivex lenses are similar but do present some differences. 

If you wear glasses every day, you’ll want them to fit comfortably, look good and not weigh heavily on your face. Thinner lenses can tick all boxes. Thicker lenses are more noticeable in the frame and tend to be heavier. Thicker lenses are, however, more affordable and suitable for lower vision corrections. 

You can browse through trendy eyewear on our site and find something to accommodate all of your eye needs. If you need more informative advice about how to choose the right glasses, speak to one of our certified online opticians today or visit our Optical Centre.

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

What Are Prescription Sunglasses?

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Ask the Optician

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What Are Prescription Sunglasses?

Are prescription sunglasses worth it?| How to order online | Cost | How to choose prescription sunglasses

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Caitlyn Gibiault
Caitlyn Gibiault

Reviewed by

Caitlyn Gibiault
Aurora is a Digital Marketing Specialist for SmartBuyGlasses. She’s enthusiastic about supporting the marketing.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Prescription sunglasses combine prescription lenses with sun protection. Order them online in just 4 easy steps!

Are you constantly straining your eyes to see while wearing non-prescription sunglasses outside? If you wear prescription glasses every day, it’s time to invest in a pair of prescription sunglasses to wear outdoors. 

Prescription shades will give you the best of both worlds: clear vision and protected eyes. Indeed, in addition to protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays, prescription sunglasses will help you see, reduce eye strain and help avoid squinting. 

Continue reading to learn more about what rx sunglasses are, their benefits, how to add your prescription online and how to choose the best pair.

People who need prescription lenses sometimes still wear non-prescription sunglasses. Doing so can result in eye strain, headache and frustration from being unable to see clearly in the sun. These irritating symptoms are far from ideal when combined with the sun, sea, sand and sunscreen. 

With prescription lens sunglasses, you can sunbathe, hike and easily play outdoor sports. Sunglasses are available with prescriptions for nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. You can also get sunglasses with progressive lenses.

Are prescription sunglasses worth it?

Your everyday lifestyle in the sun will transform once you invest in prescription sunglasses. Here is why:

  • They provide clear and protected vision on sunny days
  • They ensure you are not straining your eyes outside to avoid future eye issues
  • No need to carry around two pairs of glasses wherever you go
  • More comfortable than wearing contact lenses and sunglasses

How to order prescription sunglasses online

We recommend booking an appointment with your eye care provider for an up-to-date prescription before ordering your prescription lens sunglasses.

However, if you have your current prescription details but they’re misplaced, try our Prescription Lens Scanner app to reveal them in minutes. Unlike contact lenses, your prescription will not differ for your eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Once you have your prescription, you must follow these steps at SmartBuyGlasses:

At the customization stage, you can tailor the sunglasses lenses with options such as anti-reflective lenses that are UV400 protected.

You can also choose popular mirrored prescription sunglasses or polarization lenses for your sunglasses. For more information, see the section ‘how to choose your prescription sunglasses’ later in this article.

How much do prescription sunglasses cost?

Sunglasses with a prescription cost a bit more than non-prescription sunglasses since your specific prescription needs to be built into the lenses. 

However, in-store prescription lens sunglasses are often more expensive than buying them online.

How to choose prescription sunglasses

Firstly, choose the frame model you like. Read our short guide for some tips to determine what frame shape will suit you. You can also use our revolutionary Virtual Try-On tool to wear your chosen frames digitally before you buy! 

Sunglasses with prescription lenses can be made with various materials, including high-index lenses, polycarbonate lenses, CR-39 plastic lenses, trivex lenses and even glass lenses. When selecting prescription lenses for your sunnies, there are several types of lenses to consider.

DID YOU KNOW?
Prescription sunglasses are the perfect solution to combine perfect vision and protected eyes. Shopping online for a pair it's easy and convenient, and you can customize them with different types of lenses.

Photochromic prescription lenses

A photochromic tint will give your lenses a transition effect – which means they will automatically adjust to changes in ambient light conditions. This means they darken in the sun and become clearer indoors, which is ideal if you do not want to carry multiple pairs of glasses.

Polarised prescription sunglasses

Polarised sunglasses greatly eliminate glare to improve visual comfort and reduce eye fatigue. This lens is ideal if you spend time near water, snow, driving and playing outdoor sports.  

Colour-matching Lenses

By choosing this option, our manufacturers will match your prescription lenses to the same colour as the original sunglasses’ lenses. These lenses will still offer you UV protection and ensure you look trendy!

Mirrored prescription sunglasses

Opting for mirrored prescription sunglasses is ideal for fashion-conscious wearers. The lenses have a mirrored coating that helps to reflect light away from your eyes more than any regular tinted sunglasses.

We recommend contacting your optician to ensure you have the correct and updated prescription before you start shopping. Plus, if you still have some questions about prescription sunglasses, you can talk with one of the certified online opticians at SmartBuyGlasses.

What Are Prescription Sunglasses?

Are prescription sunglasses worth it? | How to order online | Cost | How to choose prescription sunglasses

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Caitlyn Gibiault
Caitlyn Gibiault

Reviewed by

Caitlyn Gibiault
Aurora is a Digital Marketing Specialist for SmartBuyGlasses. She’s enthusiastic about supporting the marketing.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
Find the best prescription sunglasses online that will ensure perfect vision and rock your wardrobe!

Are you constantly straining your eyes to see while wearing non-prescription sunglasses outside? If you wear prescription glasses every day, it’s time to invest in a pair of prescription sunglasses to wear outdoors. 

Prescription shades will give you the best of both worlds: clear vision and protected eyes. Indeed, in addition to protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays, prescription sunglasses will help you see, reduce eye strain and help avoid squinting. 

Continue reading to learn more about what rx sunglasses are, their benefits, how to add your prescription online and how to choose the best pair.

People who need prescription lenses sometimes still wear non-prescription sunglasses. Doing so can result in eye strain, headache and frustration from being unable to see clearly in the sun. These irritating symptoms are far from ideal when combined with the sun, sea, sand and sunscreen. 

With prescription lens sunglasses, you can sunbathe, hike and easily play outdoor sports. Sunglasses are available with prescriptions for nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism. You can also get sunglasses with progressive lenses.

Are prescription sunglasses worth it?

Your everyday lifestyle in the sun will transform once you invest in prescription sunglasses. Here is why:

  • They provide clear and protected vision on sunny days
  • They ensure you are not straining your eyes outside to avoid future eye issues
  • No need to carry around two pairs of glasses wherever you go
  • More comfortable than wearing contact lenses and sunglasses

How to order prescription sunglasses online

We recommend booking an appointment with your eye care provider for an up-to-date prescription before ordering your prescription lens sunglasses. 

However, if you have your current prescription details but they’re misplaced, try our Prescription Lens Scanner app to reveal them in minutes. Unlike contact lenses, your prescription will not differ for your eyeglasses and sunglasses. 

Once you have your prescription, you must follow these steps at SmartBuyGlasses:

At the customisation stage, you can tailor the sunglasses lenses with options such as anti-reflective lenses that are UV400 protected.

You can also choose popular mirrored prescription sunglasses or polarisation lenses for your sunglasses. For more information, see the section ‘how to choose your prescription sunglasses’ later in this article.

How much do prescription sunglasses cost?

Sunglasses with a prescription cost a bit more than non-prescription sunglasses since your specific prescription needs to be built into the lenses. 

However, in-store prescription lens sunglasses are often more expensive than buying them online.

How to choose prescription sunglasses online

Firstly, choose the frame model you like. Read our short guide for some tips to determine what frame shape will suit you. You can also use our revolutionary Virtual Try-On tool to wear your chosen frames digitally before you buy! 

Sunglasses with prescription lenses can be made with various materials, including high-index lenses, polycarbonate lenses, CR-39 plastic lenses, trivex lenses and even glass lenses. 

When selecting prescription lenses for your sunnies, there are several types of lenses to consider.

DID YOU KNOW?
Prescription sunglasses are the perfect solution to combine perfect vision and protected eyes. Shopping online for a pair it's easy and convenient, and you can customize them with different types of lenses.

Photochromic prescription lenses

A photochromic tint will give your lenses a transition effect – which means they will automatically adjust to changes in ambient light conditions. This means they darken in the sun and become clearer indoors, which is ideal if you do not want to carry multiple pairs of glasses.

Polarised prescription sunglasses

Polarised sunglasses greatly eliminate glare to improve visual comfort and reduce eye fatigue. This lens is ideal if you spend time near water, snow, driving and playing outdoor sports.  

Colour-matching lenses

By choosing this option, our manufacturers will match your prescription lenses to the same colour as the original sunglasses’ lenses. These lenses will still offer you UV protection and ensure you look trendy!

Mirrored prescription sunglasses

Opting for mirrored prescription sunglasses is ideal for fashion-conscious wearers. The lenses have a mirrored coating that helps to reflect light away from your eyes more than any regular tinted sunglasses.

We recommend contacting your optician to ensure you have the correct and updated prescription before you start shopping. Plus, if you still have some questions about prescription sunglasses, you can talk with one of the certified online opticians at SmartBuyGlasses.

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All The Benefits of Essilor Crizal Forte UV Lenses

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All The Benefits of Essilor Crizal Forte UV Lenses

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

Are you an eyeglasses wearer?

Are you tired of being blinded in the rain, constantly cleaning off smudges and losing sight due to scratched lenses?

If so, it may be time to enhance your visual experience with some high-quality lenses. Think Arise Collective HD, Essilor Crizal Forte UV lens technology, or our premium lens selection.

Lens Technologies

There has been a world of technological breakthroughs in the lenses market, and as a result there is a range of different options when it comes to choosing your lenses.

• Single vision lenses, for vision improvement over either short or long distances, but not both.

• Multifocal lenses, for vision improvement over multiple distances.

• Multicoated lenses, for protection against dust, water and scratches.

• Transition lenses, for adapting to high- and low-light situations.

• High-index lenses, for the thinnest, best-looking way of improving your eyesight.

 

What Are Anti-Reflective Lenses? 

Anti-reflective/anti-glare/AR coating improves vision, eye strain and makes your eyeglasses look better. These benefits are due to the ability of AR coating to eliminate nearly all reflections from both sides of your lenses. With reflections gone, more light passes through your lenses to optimize visual acuity. This increased amount of light can be really beneficial at night, when your eyes need all the help they can get.

 

What Lens Coatings Do My Glasses Need?

At SmartBuyGlasses, we can fit your glasses with a number of different coatings to suit your eyewear needs. These include:

• UV400, with optimized protection for UVA and UVB.

• Anti-reflective, to reduce glare and increase the amount of light entering your lenses.

• Scratch-resistant, with added protection against wear and tear.

• Impact-X, for optimal eye protection in tough conditions.

• Aspheric, which are thinner, flatter and lighter than conventional lenses.

• Superhydrophobic, with water-repellant technology.

 

What is Crizal Forte UV?

Crizal Forte UV is an exclusive anti-reflecting technology from Essilor. It’s specifically designed to protect your eyes from UV light. Essilor Crizal lens technology is applied to both sides of your glasses lenses so as to block both the direct UV light that passes through the front of your glasses, AND the UV rays reflected off the rear surface of your lenses. SmartBuyGlasses is not affiliated and does not currently sell Essilor lenses online but does recognise their excellent quality.

Do Essilor Crizal lenses protect my eyes from UV light?

Essilor broad spectrum technology lenses provide your eyes with superior protection against harmful UV radiation and have a 25 E-SPF (eye-sun protection factor) rating.

In fact, they claim that their lenses are the best in terms of UV light protection for long-term eye health.

Crizal Forte UV features

In addition, Essilor Crizal Forte UV lenses offer some of the most advanced anti-reflective lens technology available today.

Additionally, these high-tech lenses protect you against the big five obstacles to clear vision:

1. Reflections & glares.

2. Water droplets.

3. Dust.

4. Scratches.

5. Smudges.

By upgrading your ordinary lenses, you can enjoy crystal clear vision with some of the best lens technology the eyewear world has to offer.

Arise Collective™ Clarity Prescription Lenses

While we don’t sell Crizal Forte lenses at SmartBuyGlasses, we do sell anti-reflective lenses with the Arise Collective™ Clarity range.

Arise Collective™ Clarity prescription lenses are made for the everyday wearer, but also offer advanced protection making them suitable for any adventure. These lenses are suitable for all vision impairments and can be customized for your every need.

Whether you need reading glasses, driving glasses or prescription glasses for astigmatism, myopia or presbyopia, Arise Collective™ Clarity lenses are fitted to your prescription and your needs.

Protective coatings from Arise Collective™

The Arise Collective™ Clarity lens collection comes packed with protective elements to provide you with an unbeatable pair of prescription glasses. From scratch resistant and anti-reflective coatings to UV 400 and superhydrophobic protection, these lenses are guaranteed to keep your eyes comfortable in any situation.

These lenses are also aspheric, making them thinner and lighter than many other prescription lenses. These high-performing, durable lenses feature innovative lens technology that provides optimal clarity and comfort in the urban jungle.

Stay protected at SmartBuyGlasses. We stock all thousands of glasses with a wide range of lens materials. If you have any questions, visit our Ask the Optician page to find out more!

SHOP FOR MEN
SHOP FOR WOMEN

Ask the Optician

ASK NOW

All The Benefits of Essilor Crizal Forte UV Lenses

Are you an eyeglasses wearer?

Are you tired of being blinded in the rain, constantly cleaning off smudges and losing sight due to scratched lenses?

If so, it may be time to enhance your visual experience with some high-quality lenses. Think Arise Collective HD, Essilor Crizal Forte UV lens technology, or our premium lens selection.

Lens Technologies

There has been a world of technological breakthroughs in the lenses market, and as a result there is a range of different options when it comes to choosing your lenses.

• Single vision lenses, for vision improvement over either short or long distances, but not both.

• Multifocal lenses, for vision improvement over multiple distances.

• Multicoated lenses, for protection against dust, water and scratches.

• Transition lenses, for adapting to high- and low-light situations.

• High-index lenses, for the thinnest, best-looking way of improving your eyesight.

What Are Anti-Reflective Lenses? 

Anti-reflective/anti-glare/AR coating improves vision, eye strain and makes your eyeglasses look better. These benefits are due to the ability of AR coating to eliminate nearly all reflections from both sides of your lenses. With reflections gone, more light passes through your lenses to optimize visual acuity. This increased amount of light can be really beneficial at night, when your eyes need all the help they can get.

What Lens Coatings Do My Glasses Need?

At SmartBuyGlasses, we can fit your glasses with a number of different coatings to suit your eyewear needs. These include:

• UV400, with optimized protection for UVA and UVB.

• Anti-reflective, to reduce glare and increase the amount of light entering your lenses.

• Scratch-resistant, with added protection against wear and tear.

• Impact-X, for optimal eye protection in tough conditions.

• Aspheric, which are thinner, flatter and lighter than conventional lenses.

• Superhydrophobic, with water-repellant technology.

What is Crizal Forte UV?

Crizal Forte UV is an exclusive anti-reflecting technology from Essilor. It’s specifically designed to protect your eyes from UV light. Essilor Crizal lens technology is applied to both sides of your glasses lenses so as to block both the direct UV light that passes through the front of your glasses, AND the UV rays reflected off the rear surface of your lenses. SmartBuyGlasses is not affiliated and does not currently sell Essilor lenses online but does recognise their excellent quality.

Do Essilor Crizal lenses protect my eyes from UV light?

Essilor broad spectrum technology lenses provide your eyes with superior protection against harmful UV radiation and have a 25 E-SPF (eye-sun protection factor) rating.

In fact, they claim that their lenses are the best in terms of UV light protection for long-term eye health. 

Crizal Forte UV features

In addition, Essilor Crizal Forte UV lenses offer some of the most advanced anti-reflective lens technology available today.

Additionally, these high-tech lenses protect you against the big five obstacles to clear vision:

1. Reflections & glares.

2. Water droplets.

3. Dust.

4. Scratches.

5. Smudges.

By upgrading your ordinary lenses, you can enjoy crystal clear vision with some of the best lens technology the eyewear world has to offer.

Arise Collective™ Clarity Prescription Lenses

While we don’t sell Crizal Forte lenses at SmartBuyGlasses, we do sell anti-reflective lenses with the Arise Collective™ Clarity range.

Arise Collective™ Clarity prescription lenses are made for the everyday wearer, but also offer advanced protection making them suitable for any adventure. These lenses are suitable for all vision impairments and can be customized for your every need.

Whether you need reading glasses, driving glasses or prescription glasses for astigmatism, myopia or presbyopia, Arise Collective™ Clarity lenses are fitted to your prescription and your needs.

Protective Coatings from Arise Collective™

The Arise Collective™ Clarity lens collection comes packed with protective elements to provide you with an unbeatable pair of prescription glasses. From scratch resistant and anti-reflective coatings to UV 400 and superhydrophobic protection, these lenses are guaranteed to keep your eyes comfortable in any situation.

These lenses are also aspheric, making them thinner and lighter than many other prescription lenses. These high-performing, durable lenses feature innovative lens technology that provides optimal clarity and comfort in the urban jungle.

Stay protected at SmartBuyGlasses. We stock all thousands of glasses with a wide range of lens materials. If you have any questions, visit our Ask the Optician page to find out more!

SHOP WITH COATINGS FOR MEN
SHOP WITH COATINGS FOR WOMEN

Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

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Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

Ask the Optician

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Gradient Lenses

As their name suggests, the tint in gradient sunglasses recedes from top to bottom, so the top of the lenses are darkest, gradually receding until there is no tint at the bottom. Gradient lenses, therefore, offer the best of both worlds: complete clarity of vision and protection from the harmful UV rays from above. 

There are also double gradient lenses, which are tinted from both the top down and the bottom up so that the midsection is the lightest, but most people go for the more popular ‘top-down’ gradient style. Because they feature a variation in lens tints, gradient lenses handle transitions between light and dark better than a lot of other lens types, meaning that you can effortlessly move between indoors and outdoors without having to swap frames.


Gradient Sunglasses

Gradient lenses are commonly used for driving. They operate in much the same way as sun blinds do on the windshields of cars because they protect the eye from incoming, overhead sunlight while still allowing a perfect view of what is both inside and outside the vehicle. 

Gradient lenses are useful to have in a variety of other situations. If you are hiking, gradient lenses offer protection from the sun above you, while also allowing you to easily see where you are treading. Snow or water sports enthusiasts also benefit from the unique qualities of gradient lenses, although if you are looking purely to reduce glare, you may want to look at getting some polarized or mirrored lenses instead. 

For those of you looking to get some sunglasses purely for fashion and lifestyle purposes, gradient lenses offer you a compromise; a subtle, classy fashion statement without having to commit to wearing dark lenses that obscure your eyes.

IFrameNeed some gradient lenses in your life now? Look no further. The two most famous sunglass styles in the world, the Ray-Ban gradient Aviator sunglasses and Ray-Ban Wayfarer, both come in a range of gradient lens versions. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the ordinary, there are gradient lens sunglasses available from Balenciaga and Prada, too.

At SmartBuyGlasses we offer the full range of lens tints of all the sunglasses we sell, and you can also purchase prescription sunglasses – also with gradient lenses.

If you have any questions about gradient lenses, you can ask one of our expert opticians!

Sorry, we could not find the following product IDs in our database: 363022. Please check and use correct values.

Ask the Optician

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Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

Gradient Lenses

As their name suggests, the tint in gradient sunglasses recedes from top to bottom, so the top of the lenses are darkest, gradually receding until there is no tint at the bottom. Gradient lenses, therefore, offer the best of both worlds: complete clarity of vision and protection from the harmful UV rays from above. 

There are also double gradient lenses, which are tinted from both the top down and the bottom up so that the midsection is the lightest, but most people go for the more popular ‘top-down’ gradient style. Because they feature a variation in lens tints, gradient lenses handle transitions between light and dark better than a lot of other lens types, meaning that you can effortlessly move between indoors and outdoors without having to swap frames.

Gradient Sunglasses

Gradient lenses are commonly used for driving. They operate in much the same way as sun blinds do on the windshields of cars because they protect the eye from incoming, overhead sunlight while still allowing a perfect view of what is both inside and outside the vehicle. 

Gradient lenses are useful to have in a variety of other situations. If you are hiking, gradient lenses offer protection from the sun above you, while also allowing you to easily see where you are treading. Snow or water sports enthusiasts also benefit from the unique qualities of gradient lenses, although if you are looking purely to reduce glare, you may want to look at getting some polarized or mirrored lenses instead. 

For those of you looking to get some sunglasses purely for fashion and lifestyle purposes, gradient lenses offer you a compromise; a subtle, classy fashion statement without having to commit to wearing dark lenses that obscure your eyes.

IFrameNeed some gradient lenses in your life now? Look no further. The two most famous sunglass styles in the world, the Ray-Ban gradient Aviator sunglasses and Ray-Ban Wayfarer, both come in a range of gradient lens versions. If you’re looking for something a little more out of the ordinary, there are gradient lens sunglasses available from Balenciaga and Prada, too.

At SmartBuyGlasses we offer the full range of lens tints of all the sunglasses we sell, and you can also purchase prescription sunglasses – also with gradient lenses.

If you have any questions about gradient lenses, you can ask one of our expert opticians!

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High Index Lenses

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High Index Lenses

Lens index indicates how thick or thin a lens is. Also known as the index of refraction or refractive index, it is measured by numbers and describes how efficiently a material bends light. High-index lenses allow people with strong prescriptions to wear eyeglasses with thinner lenses. Read on to learn what high-index lenses exactly are and how they compare to other types of lenses. 

 

What are high-index lenses?

High-index lenses are thin, light and powerful lenses. Prescription glasses equipped with high-index lenses are noticeably slimmer, more lightweight and more stylish. That’s why high-index lenses are recommended for people with strong eyeglasses prescriptions. 

Typically, those with higher vision correction needs will be forced to wear thicker and bulky conventional glass or plastic lenses that are thicker towards the edges. But with the emergence of high-index materials, the optical industry has been transformed. 

Now, strong refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism can be corrected with thinner lenses with no compromise on efficacy. Thanks to high-index lenses, strong prescription glasses can now be sported in stylish, semi-rimless and even rimless styles. Most high-index lenses are also aspheric, making them slimmer and eliminating the “bug-eye” look to a great extent.

 

What are high-index lenses made of? 

Most high-index lenses are made of a particular type of light plastic that bends light more efficiently than other lens materials. There are also high-index lenses made of glass, but they are recommended or prescribed less often.

 

Lens thickness chart

 

High-index lenses vs. regular 

Both regular lenses and high-index ones bend light to correct refractive errors. The difference is that regular lenses have to be thicker to correct strong prescriptions, while high-index lenses are made of a material that makes them lighter and thinner. In general, the stronger the prescription, the higher the index should be for the glasses to offer comfortable vision and fit. 

For example, a regular lens with a 1.50 index and a 1.67 high index lens can have the same prescription, but the high index lens would be around 30% thinner.

 

High-index lenses vs. polycarbonate 

Polycarbonate lenses have a 1.59 index, making them thinner than standard lenses but not as much as high-index lenses. They are also impact-resistant, offering increased durability. In general, polycarbonate lenses are only recommended for children’s glasses, sports eyewear and safety goggles because they don’t provide the same visual clarity as other plastic lenses.

 

1.67 vs. 1.74 high-index lenses

Both 1.67 and 1.74 high-index lenses can accommodate strong prescriptions. The difference is in the thickness. 1.74 high-index lenses are up to 10% thinner than 1.67 high-index lenses. 

As a reference, 1.67 high-index lenses are recommended for strong prescription with an SPH correction between +/-7.00 and +/-9.00 and a CYL correction between +/-3.25 and +/-4.00.

1.74 high index lenses are known “as thin as possible” lenses and are recommended for even stronger prescriptions with SPH corrections around +/-9.25 and above and CYL corrections around +/-4.25 and +/-6.00. They are 35% thinner than the standard lenses. Although they appear thin, they are at the same time strong and will include the features to correct vision problems. 

 

Are high-index lenses worth it?

High-index lenses are the solution for accommodating high prescriptions in thinner lenses. That is not all, though; here are all the advantages of choosing high-index lenses:

 

  • Thinner and lighter than other lenses: the specific plastic blend makes it possible to create thinner and lighter lenses that provide better light refraction than regular ones.
  • Versatility: high index lenses can be customised according to your needs and preferences. They can be single vision, progressives and transitions and can be treated with many coatings such as blue light, polarisation, anti-reflective and more.
  • Comfort: because they are lighter and thinner than other types, high-index lenses offer a higher level of comfort. With high-index lenses, your glasses will not be heavy on your ears and nose, making your life easier. 
  • Great fit for most frames: high index lenses fit thousand of different frames. Always remember that the bigger the frame, the thicker the lens, so opticians recommend smaller frames if you have a strong prescription.

 

Disadvantages of high-index lenses

  • More fragile than other lenses: high index lenses are not as impact resistant as other types of lenses. This means that they are not indicated for children or sports.  
  • More expensive than other lenses: These lenses offer many benefits but are also a bit more expensive than regular lenses. For many wearers, though, their benefits outweigh the price difference compared to lower index lenses. 

 

High-index lenses might be perfect if you want more comfort and a better appearance. Before deciding on your lens index, talk to your eye doctor or take advantage of our free online optician support service to see which lens is best for your eye prescription.

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High Index Lenses

Lens index indicates how thick or thin a lens is. Also known as the index of refraction or refractive index, it is measured by numbers and describes how efficiently a material bends light. High-index lenses allow people with strong prescriptions to wear eyeglasses with thinner lenses. Read on to learn what high-index lenses exactly are and how they compare to other types of lenses. 

 

What are high-index lenses?

High-index lenses are thin, light and powerful lenses. Prescription glasses equipped with high-index lenses are noticeably slimmer, more lightweight and more stylish. That’s why high-index lenses are recommended for people with strong eyeglasses prescriptions. 

Typically, those with higher vision correction needs will be forced to wear thicker and bulky conventional glass or plastic lenses that are thicker towards the edges. But with the emergence of high-index materials, the optical industry has been transformed. 

Now, strong refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia and astigmatism can be corrected with thinner lenses with no compromise on efficacy. Thanks to high-index lenses, strong prescription glasses can now be sported in stylish, semi-rimless and even rimless styles. Most high-index lenses are also aspheric, making them slimmer and eliminating the “bug-eye” look to a great extent.

 

What are high-index lenses made of? 

Most high-index lenses are made of a particular type of light plastic that bends light more efficiently than other lens materials. There are also high-index lenses made of glass, but they are recommended or prescribed less often.

 

Lens thickness chart

High-index lenses vs. regular 

Both regular lenses and high-index ones bend light to correct refractive errors. The difference is that regular lenses have to be thicker to correct strong prescriptions, while high-index lenses are made of a material that makes them lighter and thinner. In general, the stronger the prescription, the higher the index should be for the glasses to offer comfortable vision and fit. 

For example, a regular lens with a 1.50 index and a 1.67 high index lens can have the same prescription, but the high index lens would be around 30% thinner.

 

High-index lenses vs. polycarbonate 

Polycarbonate lenses have a 1.59 index, making them thinner than standard lenses but not as much as high-index lenses. They are also impact-resistant, offering increased durability. In general, polycarbonate lenses are only recommended for children’s glasses, sports eyewear and safety goggles because they don’t provide the same visual clarity as other plastic lenses.

 

1.67 vs. 1.74 high-index lenses

Both 1.67 and 1.74 high-index lenses can accommodate strong prescriptions. The difference is in the thickness. 1.74 high-index lenses are up to 10% thinner than 1.67 high-index lenses. 

As a reference, 1.67 high-index lenses are recommended for strong prescription with an SPH correction between +/-7.00 and +/-9.00 and a CYL correction between +/-3.25 and +/-4.00.

1.74 high index lenses are known “as thin as possible” lenses and are recommended for even stronger prescriptions with SPH corrections around +/-9.25 and above and CYL corrections around +/-4.25 and +/-6.00. They are 35% thinner than the standard lenses. Although they appear thin, they are at the same time strong and will include the features to correct vision problems. 

 

Are high-index lenses worth it?

High-index lenses are the solution for accommodating high prescriptions in thinner lenses. That is not all, though; here are all the advantages of choosing high-index lenses:

 

  • Thinner and lighter than other lenses: the specific plastic blend makes it possible to create thinner and lighter lenses that provide better light refraction than regular ones.
  • Versatility: high index lenses can be customised according to your needs and preferences. They can be single vision, progressives and transitions and can be treated with many coatings such as blue light, polarisation, anti-reflective and more.
  • Comfort: because they are lighter and thinner than other types, high-index lenses offer a higher level of comfort. With high-index lenses, your glasses will not be heavy on your ears and nose, making your life easier. 
  • Great fit for most frames: high index lenses fit thousand of different frames. Always remember that the bigger the frame, the thicker the lens, so opticians recommend smaller frames if you have a strong prescription.

 

Disadvantages of high-index lenses

  • More fragile than other lenses: high index lenses are not as impact resistant as other types of lenses. This means that they are not indicated for children or sports.  
  • More expensive than other lenses: These lenses offer many benefits but are also a bit more expensive than regular lenses. For many wearers, though, their benefits outweigh the price difference compared to lower index lenses. 

 

High-index lenses might be perfect if you want more comfort and a better appearance. Before deciding on your lens index, talk to your eye doctor or take advantage of our free online optician support service to see which lens is best for your eye prescription.

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The Differences Between Contact Lenses and Glasses Prescriptions

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Are Contact Lenses And Glasses Prescription The Same?

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One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a glasses prescription is the same as a contact lens prescription. They are not, and the main reason for this is that glasses are positioned approximately 12 millimeters from your eyes whereas contact lenses sit directly on your eyes. You can compare this to holding a magnifying glass at different distances. If you hold the lens at an arm’s length and focus on an object, what you see is very different to when you hold it right up to your eye.

Glasses prescriptions

During an eye exam for glasses, the optician will determine your glasses prescription with lenses that sit at a specific distance from your eyes and under the assumption that your glasses lenses will also sit at the same distance. A range of information is assessed, including your lens power (known as ‘SP’), which is required to correct an eye refractive error. This is the cause of nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). The amount of correction required to correct a refractive error is measured in diopters (often abbreviated to ‘D’). 

For specific eye conditions such as astigmatism, the AXIS is required – this is a measurement of the cylindricality of the lenses, which will compensate for a non-spherical cornea – the cause of astigmatism. For specific types of lenses, such as bifocal lenses, your glasses prescription will also include an ‘ADDITION’ and ‘DOMINANT’ (also known as ADD) measurement which refers to the magnifying power needed to correct presbyopia. Presbyopia this is a very common condition which develops as you get older and it affects the ability of your eyes to adjust in order to see objects clearly at different distances. Some glasses prescriptions also include a ‘PRISM’ measurement which is required to correct eye alignment problems.

Contact lens prescriptions

With an eye exam for contact lenses, all of this information is still needed, but a contact lens prescription will contain additional information such as the base curve (the curvature of the lenses in millimeters), the diameter of the lenses in millimeters, the lens brand and the expiration date. When your glasses are not for visual correction (i.e. for aesthetic purposes), you don’t necessarily need a glasses prescription. This is not the case for contact lenses. You must have a contact lens prescription even if you are buying lenses which offer no visual correction, such as colored contacts for special effects. Contact lenses are a medical device and they are not suitable for everyone, so be sure to speak with a specialist to assess which option – and prescription – will be better suited for you. 

It is worth noting that the lens power for your glasses and contact lens prescription may differ, but this is more likely to be the case when you have a prescription of under -4.00D, which means it does not apply to everyone. Following an eye exam, your optician is legally required to provide a copy of your glasses or contact lens prescription. If you are aged between 18 and 60, we would recommend a thorough eye exam every two years and once a year if you are over 60.

Check out our guide for more information on your eye prescription and also how to read the results. You can also ask one of our expert opticians for more information!

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Ask the Optician

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Are Contact Lenses And Glasses Prescription The Same?

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a glasses prescription is the same as a contact lens prescription. They are not, and the main reason for this is that glasses are positioned approximately 12 millimeters from your eyes whereas contact lenses sit directly on your eyes. You can compare this to holding a magnifying glass at different distances. If you hold the lens at an arm’s length and focus on an object, what you see is very different to when you hold it right up to your eye.

Glasses prescriptions

During an eye exam for glasses, the optician will determine your glasses prescription with lenses that sit at a specific distance from your eyes and under the assumption that your glasses lenses will also sit at the same distance. A range of information is assessed, including your lens power (known as ‘SP’), which is required to correct an eye refractive error. This is the cause of nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). The amount of correction required to correct a refractive error is measured in diopters (often abbreviated to ‘D’). 

For specific eye conditions such as astigmatism, the AXIS is required – this is a measurement of the cylindricality of the lenses, which will compensate for a non-spherical cornea – the cause of astigmatism. For specific types of lenses, such as bifocal lenses, your glasses prescription will also include an ‘ADDITION’ and ‘DOMINANT’ (also known as ADD) measurement which refers to the magnifying power needed to correct presbyopia. Presbyopia this is a very common condition which develops as you get older and it affects the ability of your eyes to adjust in order to see objects clearly at different distances. Some glasses prescriptions also include a ‘PRISM’ measurement which is required to correct eye alignment problems.

Contact lens prescriptions

With an eye exam for contact lenses, all of this information is still needed, but a contact lens prescription will contain additional information such as the base curve (the curvature of the lenses in millimeters), the diameter of the lenses in millimeters, the lens brand and the expiration date. When your glasses are not for visual correction (i.e. for aesthetic purposes), you don’t necessarily need a glasses prescription. This is not the case for contact lenses. You must have a contact lens prescription even if you are buying lenses which offer no visual correction, such as colored contacts for special effects. Contact lenses are a medical device and they are not suitable for everyone, so be sure to speak with a specialist to assess which option – and prescription – will be better suited for you. 

It is worth noting that the lens power for your glasses and contact lens prescription may differ, but this is more likely to be the case when you have a prescription of under -4.00D, which means it does not apply to everyone. Following an eye exam, your optician is legally required to provide a copy of your glasses or contact lens prescription. If you are aged between 18 and 60, we would recommend a thorough eye exam every two years and once a year if you are over 60.

Check out our guide for more information on your eye prescription and also how to read the results. You can also ask one of our expert opticians for more information!

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How Do You Know What Strength Reading Glasses to Get?

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How Do You Know What Strength Reading Glasses to Get?

As the name suggests, reading glasses are glasses that help read, see objects in close range or complete daunting tasks like threading a needle. When buying a pair of readers, there are several types to choose from, which can be good but also confusing. What lenses work best? How do you know what strength to get? Will the reading glasses help your astigmatism? We are here to answer all these questions and more.

Do I need reading glasses? 

Have you noticed your vision is blurry lately while reading a book or using your mobile? This is one of the key signs that it’s time to buy reading glasses. Other symptoms include squinting when looking at something within close range, difficulties reading small print text, headaches and eye strain after reading, holding your reading material at arm’s length to see better, and increased eye fatigue. If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, you likely need a pair of reading glasses.

Eye test for readers glasses: how to find out if you need readers

Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. The symptoms of presbyopia are typically an age-related condition that occurs and deteriorates over a period of time. The best way to find out what strength reading glasses to get is by consulting an eye doctor and getting medical advice. Because it is an age-related condition, we advise seeing an eye doctor regularly as the age progresses, especially if you are already experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above. 

Even though presbyopia tends to be an age-related condition, people younger than 40 also tend to get it because of the modern-day nature of working on near-distance objects, especially on digital devices. A comfortable pair of prescription reading glasses can help with vision correction; they magnify vision, making smaller print larger and easier to read. 

At-home reading glasses test

When looking for reading glasses and not knowing what power to select, it can be very tempting to search for at-home tests to give you that information. Unfortunately, determining the strength of the glasses on your own can lead to selecting the wrong power and damaging your eyes. By deciding what power to get on your own, you could end up using more power than you truly need; this could lead to your eyes getting used to it and making your vision worse.  

If you need a pair of reading glasses, the best way to find out which power works for you is by consulting an eye specialist. This will prevent you from getting the wrong glasses and damaging your vision. 

What if my reading glasses don’t work? 

If you’re already wearing reading glasses and find yourself experiencing headaches or still having difficulties reading, you might start to wonder if your reading glasses are effective or not. Chances are you got your prescription a very long time ago and now need more power in your lenses, which means you should probably get your eyes checked.

Another reason why your reading glasses might not be working for you is that you chose the power without consulting a specialist. If you still struggle reading, you probably chose the wrong power and need to consult a specialist. Once you have that sorted, you will be able to choose between different types of lenses.

What are reading glasses and the many different types you can choose from 

The most common type of lenses for reading glasses are single-vision lenses; in this case, both lenses have the same power. Multifocal/progressive lenses, on the other hand, have multiple prescriptions in one lens, which makes it easier to switch between seeing close-up, in-between, and far away. Multifocal lenses are the best choice for those looking to correct more than one problem, while single-vision lenses can be a good option if you need the same power for both eyes and only have one prescription.  Another option to consider is adding a blue light block to your lenses. This will help with eyestrain, fatigue, and headaches whenever being in front of a screen for many hours. Check out our guide for more information on buying glasses online and the types of lenses we offer. 

Will reading glasses help astigmatism? 

Although the symptoms of astigmatism and presbyopia may seem similar, reading glasses cannot help all individuals with astigmatism. It is important to remember that generic reading glasses only magnify whatever you look up close. Because people with astigmatism may also be nearsighted or farsighted, reading glasses are not advised if you suffer from astigmatism. To determine whether you have astigmatism, we advise seeing an eye professional. 

Where to buy reading glasses: 5 easy steps to buy the perfect pair 

With so many options, both over-the-counter and online, it can be confusing to choose the best pair. So here are five easy steps to select the best readers from the comfort of your home and immediately start seeing better!

Step 1: Head to our website 

Step 2: Head to our glasses section 

Step 3: Filter to reading glasses 

Step 4: Choose your favourite frames and select the power (It is possible to choose from +1.00, +1.50, +2.00, +2.50, +3.00, and +3.50)

Step 5: Securely check out online!

With SmartBuy Readers, you can invest in several pairs to always have one nearby. Keep a pair in the office, one in your handbag, one in your car, and one at home so you always have easy access to clearer vision. If you have any more questions about reading glasses, ask our opticians!

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Which Type of Reading Glasses Are Right For You?

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As the name suggests, reading glasses are glasses that help read, see objects in close range or complete daunting tasks like threading a needle. When buying a pair of readers, there are several types to choose from, which can be good but also confusing. What lenses work best? How do you know what strength to get? Will the reading glasses help your astigmatism? We are here to answer all these questions and more.

Do I need reading glasses? 

Have you noticed your vision is blurry lately while reading a book or using your mobile? This is one of the key signs that it’s time to buy reading glasses. Other symptoms include squinting when looking at something within close range, difficulties reading small print text, headaches and eye strain after reading, holding your reading material at arm’s length to see better, and increased eye fatigue. If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, you likely need a pair of reading glasses.

Eye test for readers glasses: how to find out if you need readers

Presbyopia is the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects. The symptoms of presbyopia are typically an age-related condition that occurs and deteriorates over a period of time. The best way to find out what strength reading glasses to get is by consulting an eye doctor and getting medical advice. Because it is an age-related condition, we advise seeing an eye doctor regularly as the age progresses, especially if you are already experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above. 

Even though presbyopia tends to be an age-related condition, people younger than 40 also tend to get it because of the modern-day nature of working on near-distance objects, especially on digital devices. A comfortable pair of prescription reading glasses can help with vision correction; they magnify vision, making smaller print larger and easier to read. 

At-home reading glasses test

When looking for reading glasses and not knowing what power to select, it can be very tempting to search for at-home tests to give you that information. Unfortunately, determining the strength of the glasses on your own can lead to selecting the wrong power and damaging your eyes. By deciding what power to get on your own, you could end up using more power than you truly need; this could lead to your eyes getting used to it and making your vision worse.  

If you need a pair of reading glasses, the best way to find out which power works for you is by consulting an eye specialist. This will prevent you from getting the wrong glasses and damaging your vision. 

What if my reading glasses don’t work? 

If you’re already wearing reading glasses and find yourself experiencing headaches or still having difficulties reading, you might start to wonder if your reading glasses are effective or not. Chances are you got your prescription a very long time ago and now need more power in your lenses, which means you should probably get your eyes checked.

Another reason why your reading glasses might not be working for you is that you chose the power without consulting a specialist. If you still struggle reading, you probably chose the wrong power and need to consult a specialist. Once you have that sorted, you will be able to choose between different types of lenses.

What are reading glasses and the many different types you can choose from 

The most common type of lenses for reading glasses are single-vision lenses; in this case, both lenses have the same power. Multifocal/progressive lenses, on the other hand, have multiple prescriptions in one lens, which makes it easier to switch between seeing close-up, in-between, and far away. Multifocal lenses are the best choice for those looking to correct more than one problem, while single-vision lenses can be a good option if you need the same power for both eyes and only have one prescription.  Another option to consider is adding a blue light block to your lenses. This will help with eyestrain, fatigue, and headaches whenever being in front of a screen for many hours. Check out our guide for more information on buying glasses online and the types of lenses we offer. 

Will reading glasses help astigmatism? 

Although the symptoms of astigmatism and presbyopia may seem similar, reading glasses cannot help all individuals with astigmatism. It is important to remember that generic reading glasses only magnify whatever you look up close. Because people with astigmatism may also be nearsighted or farsighted, reading glasses are not advised if you suffer from astigmatism. To determine whether you have astigmatism, we advise seeing an eye professional. 

Where to buy reading glasses: 5 easy steps to buy the perfect pair 

With so many options, both over-the-counter and online, it can be confusing to choose the best pair. So here are five easy steps to select the best readers from the comfort of your home and immediately start seeing better!

Step 1: Head to our website 

Step 2: Head to our glasses section 

Step 3: Filter to reading glasses 

Step 4: Choose your favourite frames and select the power (It is possible to choose from +1.00, +1.50, +2.00, +2.50, +3.00, and +3.50)

Step 5: Securely check out online!

With SmartBuy Readers, you can invest in several pairs to always have one nearby. Keep a pair in the office, one in your handbag, one in your car, and one at home so you always have easy access to clearer vision. If you have any more questions about reading glasses, ask our opticians!

SHOP FOR MEN
SHOP FOR WOMEN