How can I get a copy of my prescription?

How to Get a Glasses Prescription

Where | How long does it take? | Online prescriptions | Accuracy | Prescription History | How to read | How to shop

By Anna MacGabhann

Reviewed by

Updated On Mar 29, 2023

Read our useful guide on the different ways to get your glasses prescription!

Technology in the eye industry is constantly evolving. Today, it is easier and more efficient than ever to get a copy of your eye prescription. Gone are the days of waiting in long lines to receive your prescription from the optician’s office. Read on to learn more about eye prescriptions, where to get them and how to read them.

Where can I get a copy of my eye prescription?

Your eye prescription (also known as Rx prescription) is written by an eyewear prescriber, such as an optician or optometrist. It specifies the value of parameters needed to construct and dispense corrective lenses for a patient.

It is recommended that you get an eye test from your doctor at least every two years to check the health of your eyes and if your eyesight has changed. Before buying a new pair of glasses, it is vital that your prescription is up to date. If you have not had an eye test in recent years, consider booking an eye test with an optician before trying to obtain your current prescription.

How long does it take to get prescription glasses?

Standard in-person eye tests usually take around 30 minutes. Once your eye test is complete, your doctor will provide you with your prescription card. If you ever misplace your card, you can call up your doctor and request a copy of your prescription.

However, there is an even quicker way to find out your eye prescription. If you simply need a retrieval of your current eye prescription from your current glasses, you can use our revolutionary technology to reveal it without leaving the house!

At SmartBuyGlasses, you can extract your current prescription in a matter of minutes from your glasses with the innovative vision testing Lens Scanner App. By scanning your current prescription glasses, you’ll have access to your current prescription in minutes, completely free of charge. This is perfect for individuals who are happy with their current prescription but would like to update their eyewear.

Can I get a copy of my eye prescription online?

Depending on the practice you attend, some opticians may be able to provide you with your eye prescription online. Following your eye test, your prescription will be registered at the optical practice where you had the eye exam. It is a legal requirement to provide you with your prescription for glasses or contact lenses upon request.

Both opticians and the customer benefit from being able to access prescriptions online due to convenience and time. Usually, you can visit your practice’s website to request the prescription, call them, or send an email.

Some companies may even be able to send over prescriptions on the same day. Simply search the practice and location online to find out more about the best way to contact your optician!

SUMMARY

Getting your prescription can be quick and easy! If you are in a pinch and have your correct prescription glasses at hand, you can use our handy LensScanner tool to get your prescription details.

How accurate are online prescription glasses?

There will be no changes made to the prescription you obtained from your optometrist, even if they publish it online, so it is 100% accurate.

As for our Lens Scanner App, when used correctly, it can accurately reveal the power in your lenses in a matter of moments. Please be aware that using the Lens Scanner App cannot be used for progressive lenses and is not a substitution for an eye exam. We recommend getting an eye exam if you have noticed changes in your eyesight and to check your eye health.

Can I see my prescription history?

It may be beneficial for you to look into your eye prescription history to see the changes in your eyesight over the years. You can request your eye prescription history from your optician via phone call, email, or by visiting the branch.

Some opticians allow you to access your prescription history online via their website, so it’s worth checking this out first! Please note that requesting your prescription history can take longer than requesting your current prescription, as there are more details to prepare.

How to read lens prescriptions

To understand how to read your prescription, you can check out our guide to reading prescriptions or continue reading for a brief overview.

Generally, a prescription will include the following information: sphere power, cylinder power, axis and ADD power.
Sphere power indicates how strong your prescription lenses should be to correct any near or Farsightedness. This number can range from negative numbers (for Nearsightedness) to positive numbers (for Farsightedness). The greater the number, the stronger the prescription needed to correct vision problems.
Cylinder power indicates if astigmatism is present and the amount of correction required by referencing a minus or plus sign and a numerical value. If this field is left blank on your prescription, it means no astigmatism is present.
Axis indicates the angle of your prescription lenses, expressed in degrees on a scale from 0-180. This number will usually have a small “x” placed before it to indicate that it is an axis measurement.
Finally, ADD power indicates how much prescription strength you need for reading and other tasks requiring near vision. This field is typically filled out if you are over the age of 40, as people typically start to need prescription lenses for seeing up close around this age.

By understanding these key elements of an eye prescription, you can discover more about your own optical health and decide which glasses are perfect for you!

How to shop for glasses online

Now you’re all set! You know how to get a copy of your prescription directly from your optician online or in person and you have more insight into how to read it. Don’t forget to check out the Lens Scanner App to retrieve your current prescription in five minutes or less.

In addition, you can also discover your pupillary distance (PD) with our useful online tool. Once you have your up-to-date prescription and PD, you’re ready to start shopping for a new pair of prescription glasses from our range at SmartBuyGlasses. If you have further questions regarding your prescription, contact our in-house opticians or learn more about eye prescriptions at the Optical Centre section of our website.

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How to Get a Glasses Prescription

Key Points | How to loosen | How to tighten | Tilted frames | Professional help

By Anna MacGabhann

Reviewed by

Updated On Mar 29, 2023

Read our useful guide on the different ways to get your glasses prescription!

Where can I get a copy of my eye prescription?

How long does it take to get prescription glasses?

Can I get a copy of my eye prescription online?

Some companies may even be able to send over prescriptions on the same day. Simply search the practice and location online to find out more about the best way to contact your optician!

SUMMARY

Getting your prescription can be quick and easy! If you are in a pinch and have your correct prescription glasses at hand, you can use our handy LensScanner tool to get your prescription details.

How accurate are online prescription glasses?

There will be no changes made to the prescription you obtained from your optometrist, even if they publish it online, so it is 100% accurate.

Can I see my prescription history?

How to read lens prescriptions

To understand how to read your prescription, you can check out our guide to reading prescriptions or continue reading for a brief overview.

•Generally, a prescription will include the following information: sphere power, cylinder power, axis, and ADD power.
•Sphere power indicates how strong your prescription lenses should be to correct any near or Farsightedness. This number can range from negative numbers (for Nearsightedness) to positive numbers (for Farsightedness). The greater the number, the stronger the prescription needed to correct vision problems.
•Cylinder power indicates if astigmatism is present and the amount of correction required by referencing a minus or plus sign and a numerical value. If this field is left blank on your prescription, it means no astigmatism is present.
•Axis indicates the angle of your prescription lenses, expressed in degrees on a scale from 0-180. This number will usually have a small “x” placed before it to indicate that it is an axis measurement.
•Finally, ADD power indicates how much prescription strength you need for reading and other tasks requiring near vision. This field is typically filled out if you are over the age of 40, as people typically start to need prescription lenses for seeing up close around this age.

By understanding these key elements of an eye prescription, you can discover more about your own optical health and decide which glasses are perfect for you!

How to shop for glasses online

Now you’re all set! You know how to get a copy of your prescription directly from your optician online or in person, and you have more insight into how to read it. Don’t forget to check out the Lens Scanner App to retrieve your current prescription in five minutes or less.

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What does Asian Fit mean?

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What Are Asian Fit Glasses?

Depending on your facial features, Asian fit glasses may be the best for you. They have special features that give you the most comfortable fit and stops the frames from sliding down your nose.

If you are having problems with your glasses fitting your face comfortably, then this article all about Asian fit has the answers you are looking for.

Do you find that your glasses sit tightly, always slide down your nose or sit too close to your eyelashes? Then maybe your face is telling you to upgrade to a pair that fits your facial features the way they are supposed to.

What does Asian fit mean in glasses?

We all look different and we all have different facial features. Just think about how, nowadays, anyone can unlock their phone by simply placing it in front of their face.

When choosing a pair of glasses, remember that what fits your face won’t necessarily fit another – just like your face is the only one to unlock your phone. It could be your eye shape, bone structure and so on.

Do you feel that your glasses do not correctly fit your face because they are too tight at the temples or always slip down your nose? For people with lower nose bridges and high cheekbones in particular this is a common issue. Due to the diversity among facial features, standard glasses aren’t always the right fit.

We have a solution!

Asian fit glasses are designed specifically to help avoid these issues. Also known as low bridge fit glasses or Omni fit, Asian fit eyewear can be more comfortable for people of Asian descent but is also not limited to them.

Asian fit sunglasses and glasses cater to specific facial features. If your answer is yes to any of these questions below, then you may want to consider getting yourself a pair of low bridge fit glasses:

Do you have flatter facial features?
A rounder and wider face?
A low nose bridge and/or higher cheekbones?

If you’ve said yes to 1 or more of the above questions, then sit back and let’s have a look at what your face is saying.

Humans have adapted to their environment and climate for centuries, and based on these factors, our bodies have mutated to fit our surroundings, even our facial features.

Our noses, for example, have adapted to diverse climates, and if you live in a more humid climate, you’ll tend to have a wider nose to allow for more air to flow.

Facial features

In the Asian community, many tend to have a lower nasal bridge, the part that is between your eyes and close to your forehead. Therefore the bridge of your nose is lower than your pupils, making it harder for the glasses to sit correctly on your face and align with your vision.

If you have higher cheekbones, your glasses will tend to touch your cheeks, so when you talk or smile, you’ll see your glasses move as well. If your eyewear is always leaning on your cheeks, it can be uncomfortable.

With a wider and rounder face, standard glasses can be a little tighter around the temples or quite often sit too high on your face.

Can non-Asians wear Asian fit glasses?

Whether you are from an Asian community or not, having these particular facial features may entail that Asian fit glasses are designed specifically for you. If you have a smaller face shape you may also opt for an Asian fit.

What is the difference between Asian fit and standard fit?

Now that we’ve established who and for which particular facial features Asian fit glasses are, we can see exactly how they work.

3 main aspects make Asian fit glasses a little different from Standard fit glasses:

Asian-fit glasses are designed with larger nose pads that ensure the glasses sit correctly on your face and away from your eyelashes. Standard fit glasses, instead, have a shorter bridge meaning that they may not fit well if you have a low nose bridge.
The lenses are shorter, wider, and slightly tilted. This helps prevent the glasses from constantly touching your cheek and helps to create a gap between your face and the lenses. With your glasses sitting further away from your face, you’ll also reduce the risk of your eyewear fogging up, a pain every glasses wearer endures.
The frame is wider and slightly curved for rounder and prominent heart face shapes, to prevent the glasses from being too tight at the temples or sitting too high on your face.

Round and heart-shaped faces tend to have a wider forehead which means that some regular or smaller size glasses would be too tight and squeeze your face. If you are not entirely sure what your face shape is, you can easily find out with our shape face guide.

Are Asian fit glasses smaller?

Just like any clothing item that we wear, even glasses have a particular size, whether they are standard fit or Asian fit. They are smaller in some aspects, but it will depend on the measurement.

Sunglasses, and glasses in general, have 3 different measurements:

The first measurement indicates your lens width
The second number is the width of the bridge
The third is the temple width

Extra nose pad features

For Onmi fit glasses, you want to ensure that the bridge or nose pads have the right size to sit correctly on your nose. The size can also differ depending on the frame material used.

Generally, bridge measurements on standard-fit glasses vary from 14-24 mm, but if it is too wide on your nose bridge, the glasses may slip down.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are many differences between Asian and Standard fit glasses. Finding out if you need Asian fit can make your experience much more comfortable.

Frame type

Plastic frames with a solid nose bridge for Asian fit glasses can measure around 8mm and this helps provide support and less slipping. A great example is Ray-Ban Asian fit glasses, which sit just right on your face and avoid any touching between your cheeks and glasses.

Many metal frames, for example, have adjustable nose pads that you can adjust to fit the glasses properly on each side of your nose. Certain metal frames can have a nose bridge of up to 11mm. Measurements for low bridge glasses can tend to be lower than the standard fit but do vary. But don’t let all these numbers stop you from getting a pair of trendy and cool Asian fit glasses.

Great-looking, better-fitting glasses

If you have a low nose bridge, wide and flat facial features or high cheekbones, then most probably Asian fit glasses are just the right eyewear for you.

Look trendy with a pair of Asian fit eyeglasses or low bridge sunglasses that fit; avoid the pain of your eyewear moving inconveniently or them fogging up your vision because they are too close to your face.

What is Pupillary Distance?

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What is Pupillary Distance?

Pupillary distance is the distance between your pupils. Learn how to measure PD in this article.

When placing your first order of prescription glasses online, you’ll likely come across some pretty specific language relating to the various measurements required.

If you’ve never actually had to read your prescription before, some of the terminology used on it will probably be new to you.

One of those terms is pupillary distance, which simply refers to the distance from the center of your left pupil to the center of your right pupil.

Pupillary distance is measured in millimetres and is crucial knowledge when fitting corrective lenses. We’ll take you through the ins and outs of it in this article.

Why is pupillary distance important?

When creating prescription lenses, having the wearer’s correct pupillary distance (PD) is vital, as it allows the lens maker to determine the center of the lenses.

For the clearest and most comfortable vision possible, the distance between the center of the left lens and the center of the right lens should equal the distance between the wearer’s pupils.

Incorrect PD measurements, even if they’re only off by a millimetre or two, could be the difference between perfectly functioning prescription glasses and distorted lenses.

Each pupil needs to align as closely as possible with the center of the lens directly in front of it in order to achieve optimal vision correction.

If the lenses are created with an incorrect PD, the wearer will experience distorted, uncomfortable vision, and possibly headaches as a result. In this case, the correct PD measurement would need to be taken so the lenses can be realigned.

DID YOU KNOW?

The ruler that eye care professionals use to measure pupillary distance is commonly known as a “PD stick.”

Single PD and dual PD

There are two different types of pupillary distance measurement; single PD and dual PD. The definition given earlier – the distance between the center of your pupils – applies to single PD (also called binocular PD).

There is only one value in this measurement, hence the name. For example, a binocular PD could be written as 61mm.

Dual PD refers to the distance from the center of each pupil to the middle of the nose, so there are two numerical values.

A dual PD of 31/30mm indicates that the center of the right pupil is 31mm from the middle of the nose, and the center of the left pupil is 30mm from the nose.

Monocular PD is another name for dual PD. The value of the right eye always comes first in monocular PD.

Either type of pupillary distance measurement will suffice when ordering glasses, but, it’s more common to use binocular PD. Dual PD is useful when ordering progressive lenses.

Reading glasses are an exceptional case, necessitating some simple subtraction. Take 3mm off your single PD or 1.5mm from each value of your dual PD to ensure your reading glasses meet your vision needs.

How to measure pupillary distance at home

Your pupillary distance can usually be found at the bottom of your prescription card, as your eye doctor or specialist measures it during a lens fitting.

However, eye doctors sometimes omit this detail from the prescription card they give to you and just keep it in their own records.

To avoid this, be sure to ask them to include it whenever you go for an eye test and a new prescription.

Even if it’s not on your current card, it’s not a problem. It’s easy to measure pupillary distance yourself at home, and you can even take your pick from old-school and modern methods.

Use the app

Our free pupillary distance app is the fastest and easiest way to measure PD. All you need is a smartphone, a computer with a webcam, and a magnetic strip card. The app has voice instructions that will guide you through each step of PD measurement.

Use a ruler

If you don’t have access to the tools required to use our app, you can easily measure your pupillary distance using this approach. All you need is a millimetre ruler and a mirror.

Step 1: Standing in front of a mirror, hold the ruler flat against the line of your eyebrows or up to the bridge of your nose.

Step 2: Close your right eye. While looking straight ahead into the mirror, align the ruler’s zero mark with the center of your left pupil.

Step 3: Keeping the millimetre ruler still, close your left eye and open your right eye.

Step 4: Read the number aligned with your right pupil’s centre. This number is your first pupillary distance measurement.

Step 5: Repeat the process to ensure you get the most accurate measurement result for your left eye too.

If you are struggling to follow these steps, enlisting the help of a friend could make things easier. All you need to do is stand facing your friend and ask them to measure your PD using either a ruler or a millimetre tape measure.

Both of you can repeat the steps outlined above, with your friend holding the ruler to the bridge of your nose and taking the measurement. During this, your friend must make sure they keep their head still and look straight ahead while they read the measurement.

Is there an average pupillary distance?

Pupillary distance is different for each individual. The average PD for adults is between 54 and 74mm. If your own PD measurement falls outside of the average adult’s PD range, there is no need to worry.

High or low, the number itself does not have any effect on your vision. What’s important is that it accurately reflects the distance between your pupils.

The average pupillary distance for children is between 41 and 55mm. Since a person’s pupillary distance changes with physical development, it’s important to consider that children may have different pupillary distances each year. Don’t take for granted that their PD measurement from a previous year will still be correct.

If anyone knows how to measure pupillary distance, it’s your eye doctor. For the most precise reading possible, ask them to write it on your prescription card each time you or your child has an eye exam.

If you’re still unsure about any prescription-related issues, take a look at our helpful Optical Centre articles, or reach out to one of our certified opticians for help.

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:

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.
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.

Enter distance corrected under SPH for the left and right eye
Astigmatism details go under CYL and AXIS
PD* (pupillary distance)
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.

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Prism Glasses

What are prism lenses?

How do prism glasses work?

Why do people see double?

Prism glasses for double vision

What do prism glasses look like?

What does a prescription for a prism look like?

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:

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.
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

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

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

Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

difference between polarized vs non polarized glasses

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Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

Photochromic and polarised lenses each have their respective qualities. Find out which type is the best choice for you.

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.

Polarised and photochromic 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 automatically adjust from clear to dark with UV exposure. Photochromic lenses start clear and darken upon coming into contact with UV light.

Unlike photochromic lenses, polarised lenses are always tinted and have a special coating that filters out horizontal light rays, which essentially means they cut out glare.

DID YOU KNOW?

Polarised lenses were invented in 1936, exactly thirty years before photochromic lenses.

What are photochromic lenses?

You may have also heard photochromic lenses being referred to as Transitions® lenses, but are they the same?

Transitions® lenses and photochromic lenses work the same way and are essentially the same thing. Transitions® is a brand name and type of photochromic lens manufactured by Transitions Optical Limited.

Photochromic 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, depending on the intensity of ultraviolet light. 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, whereas glass photochromic lenses contain the molecules within the glass.

The convenient all-in-one nature of these lenses provides extra comfort in changing environments for those who need prescription eyewear.

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, allowing them to easily adapt to changing light conditions.

When this light is absorbed, the lenses darken. Away from the sunlight, 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. When exposed to bright light, 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 settings like overcast skies, causing photochromic lenses to darken even in these conditions.

Pros and cons of photochromic lenses

The biggest advantages are how cost-effective, convenient and versatile photochromic lenses can be. With no need for a separate pair, one pair of glasses acts as both your eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Photochromic glasses mean no need to worry about changing your glasses upon entering or exiting a building or the sunshine.

The versatility of photochromic lenses is especially beneficial when the weather changes throughout the day, making them great for those with an active lifestyle.

If you’re on the slopes, or hiking in the woods, and the sun keeps disappearing behind the clouds and coming out again, your vision and comfort remain unaffected.

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.

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 they do outdoors.

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 provide optimal vision for outdoor activities, as they block out reflections that come from smooth surfaces, like, snow or water.

When the sun reflects off these surfaces, it causes a powerful, horizontal glare that may cause eye damage and strain.

Polarised lenses improve visual clarity by reducing glare from reflective surfaces, making it easy for your eyes to focus, while also increasing colour contrast and giving you greater depth perception.

How do polarised lenses work?

Whether hiking, cycling or boating, polarised sunglasses are a great option for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. 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.

Pros and cons of polarised lenses

Polarised lenses are well suited for driving during the day, as glare from other cars, or the road, is a common scenario.

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 on them 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 around both your glasses and sunglasses.

Which is better - photochromic or polarised lenses?

Polarised and photochromic 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 glare and reflections, not only improving vision but providing a level of safety, and are a great choice for outdoor activities.

Both types of lenses will protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. The best choice is always individual, so it’s best to review the functionalities of each, consider your environment and budget and compare this to your lifestyle.

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 vision 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.

Head to our Optical Centre to learn more about these lenses, or speak with one of our opticians. And remember, whether you purchase photochromic or polarised lenses, make sure they fit into frames that make you feel confident.

Glasses Lens Material – Everything you need to know

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Glasses Lens Material: Your Ultimate Guide

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

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!

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?

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.

Plastic

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

High-Index

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.

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?

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?

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.

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Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

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Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

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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.

Need 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: 516198, 363022. Please check and use correct values.

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Everything You Need to Know About Gradient Sunglasses

Gradient Lenses

Gradient Sunglasses

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: 516198, 363022. Please check and use correct values.

High Index Lenses

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High Index Lenses

Thick lenses are an aesthetic concern for many people, but high index lenses allow strong prescription lenses to be thinned. Learn all about them in this article.

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

DID YOU KNOW?

The first high index lenses were produced in 1983, made from polycarbonate.

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 customized according to your needs and preferences. They can be single vision, progressives, transitions, and can be treated with many coatings such as blue light, polarization, 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.

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!

Which Type of Reading Glasses Are Right For You?

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Do I need reading glasses?

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

At-home reading glasses test

What if my reading glasses don’t work?

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

Will reading glasses help astigmatism?

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

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!

UV400 protection

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UV400 protection

If you’re shopping for sunglasses and find yourself confused by complicated words such as UV protection and UV400, all the different percentages of UV protection, don’t panic. We’ll give you all the information required to buy the perfect pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

What are UV rays?

Ultraviolet rays (UV) are radiation emitted by the sun. The two main types of UV radiation are UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are more prevalent and can penetrate deeper into the skin, while UVB rays are more intense but don’t penetrate as deep.

On the one hand, exposure to small amounts of UV light is necessary for our bodies to produce vitamin D, which helps strengthen our bones. On the other hand, too much sun exposure can lead to various types of damage to the skin and eyes. It is essential for people to protect themselves from the harmful effects of UV rays by wearing protective sunscreen and the correct type of sunglasses.

What is UV protection, and why is UV light damaging

Because UV rays can damage the eyes, sunglasses are not just an excellent accessory to complete our look; they are crucial for our eye health and can provide UV protection. While it is common to grab a pair of sunnies on our way out to the beach, quite often, people don’t know that UV rays can reflect off surfaces such as water, snow and buildings on cloudy days.

It is essential to wear sunglasses as often as possible and not only in the summer, as UV rays are not seasonal but cause harm all year long. Not every pair of sunglasses has UV protection, which means just wearing a generic pair won’t protect your eyes from UV radiation.

UV400 Protection

UV sunglasses are sunglasses that block UV rays from reaching your eye. There are different percentages of UV protection. Ideally, it would be best to aim for UV400 sunglasses, which block 100% UV rays. With UV400 protection, you can eliminate UV exposure to your eyes, making sure your eyes are well-protected and not at risk. Prolonged exposure to UV rays could cause short and long-term damage to your eyes. Long-term effects of not wearing UV400 protection could include damage to the retina, cataracts, macular degeneration, or even cancer of the eyes or eyelids.

How to tell if sunglasses have UV protection

If you have UV sunglasses and are still determining what kind of protection they offer, you can find that out quickly. The product label should say “100% protection against UV400.” If you’re unsure, you can take your sunglasses to an eyecare professional who can test for UV protection with a photometer.

Is UV400 the same as 100% UV protection?

UV400 is the most effective blocker of harmful ultraviolet light, as it provides sunglasses with 100% UV protection. However, different percentages of UV protection can be found when buying sunglasses. Although you should aim to get 100% UV protection, it is with knowing what the other percentages are and what kind of protection they provide.

These are the following classes of UV protection:

0 – Allows 80-100% UV light to penetrate the lens
1- Allows 43-80% UV light to penetrate the lens
2 – Allows 18-43% UV light to penetrate the lens
3 – Allows 8-18% UV light to penetrate the lens
4 – Allows 3-8% UV light to penetrate the lens

UV sunglasses and polarised lenses

The primary function of polarised sunglasses is to reduce light and glare. These lenses are ideal near water and are even considered the best fishing sunglasses. Polarised lenses alone, however, do not protect from UV rays. In order to be considered UV protective sunglasses, the polarised lenses must have a UV filter. While not all polarised sunglasses offer UV protection, some can have both.

Is UV400 better than polarised?

Polarised sunglasses reduce glare but do not protect your eyes from UV light. As previously mentioned, polarised lenses have a different purpose than UV400 protection lenses. This means that just getting a pair of polarised sunglasses won’t provide adequate UV protection for your eyes from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

Are UV-protective sunglasses expensive?

Fortunately, UV protection glasses come in a wide range of prices. A good pair of sunglasses can cost from 10$ to 500$. The price range is so wide because many features add to the price. From polarising lenses to the brand name and prescription lenses, many factors play into the final cost of the product.

If you’re worried that buying a good pair of sunnies with excellent protection will cost you a fortune, remember there are many affordable options on the market. Protecting your eyes does not have to be expensive.

UV protection needs to start early

It is very common for young kids and teenagers to be less aware of the dangers of not protecting the skin and eyes from the sun. While adults, over time, start being more conscious about it. It is crucial to know that UV damage is cumulative; the danger grows the more you spend time in the sunlight during your lifetime. For this reason, it is best to start taking precautions and keeping the eyes safe from a young age.

Children are at a higher risk of UV damage because they tend to spend more time outdoors; not only that, but their eyes are also more susceptible to eye damage. Purchasing a good pair of sunglasses with UV400 protection for your children will help protect their eyes and get them into the habit of protecting their eyes when going out in the sun.

Do I Need to Wear Sunglasses with UV400 Protection?

The short answer is yes; wearing sunglasses with UV400 protection is very much advised by all eyecare specialists. It is the best protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays and provides excellent protection while in the sun. If you’re wondering whether or not you will regret buying a good pair of sunglasses, the answer is no. You won’t regret protecting your vision and avoiding damage to the eyes.

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UV400 protection

What are UV rays?

What is UV protection, and why is UV light damaging

UV400 Protection

How to tell if sunglasses have UV protection

Is UV400 the same as 100% UV protection?

These are the following classes of UV protection:

0 – Allows 80-100% UV light to penetrate the lens
1- Allows 43-80% UV light to penetrate the lens
2 – Allows 18-43% UV light to penetrate the lens
3 – Allows 8-18% UV light to penetrate the lens
4 – Allows 3-8% UV light to penetrate the lens

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How to Get a Glasses Prescription

Where | How long does it take? | Online prescriptions | Accuracy | Prescription History | How to read | How to shop

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Where can I get a copy of my eye prescription?

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Can I get a copy of my eye prescription online?

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Extra nose pad features

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Great-looking, better-fitting glasses

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Single PD and dual PD

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Prism Glasses

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Prism glasses for double vision

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Prism Glasses

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Prism glasses for double vision

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How to order prism glasses online

Prism lenses for daily life

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Photochromic vs. Polarised Lenses

What is the difference between photochromic and polarised lenses?

DID YOU KNOW?

What are photochromic lenses?