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

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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What Are Polarised Sunglasses?

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What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarised sunglasses are high-functioning eyewear with many benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn what polarised sunglasses are good for and what the difference is between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses. If you’ve found yourself asking these questions and wondering whether or not polarised sunglasses are good for you, read on to find out more.

 

What does polarised sunglasses mean?

Polarised sunglasses will block out the horizontal blinding glare that causes you to squint. As the sun hits the surface horizontally, it will bounce off the surface causing the glare. polarised lenses block that glare using an anti-glare filter to create vertical openings for light to pass through. Not only do they make colours more distinguishable, but they also add clarity to your vision by reducing glare from the sun. Glare can be annoying and dangerous as it alters colours and causes visual discomfort, so polarised sunglasses can help you to see more clearly.

 

How do polarised sunglasses work?

Polarised lenses have opposite layers aligned at the opposite polars. These molecules absorb horizontally polarised light before it reaches your eyes but allow vertically polarised light to pass through. As direct sunlight is unpolarised, the polarisation filter doesn’t completely block out the light – but don’t worry, polarised sunglasses contain other coatings that protect your eyes from direct sunlight.

On the other hand, the benefits of blocking the horizontally reflected light are what make polarised lenses worth the money. You’ll notice this if you’ve ever looked at the water’s surface on a sunny day before and after putting on polarised lenses. 

 

How to tell if sunglasses are polarised

With the aspects of polarised lenses in mind, you can determine whether your sunglasses are polarised by looking through the lenses towards a reflective surface, such as water or pavement.  If you don’t experience blurry vision, you are probably wearing sunglasses with polarised lenses.

Another way to test your sunglasses is to put them on and look at your phone or tablet when switched on. If your screen is black, that means your sunglasses are polarised with a filter that blocks horizontally polarised light. All you have to do to see your screen is rotate your device 90 degrees.

 

What is the difference between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses?

The anti-glare coating on polarised lenses is the main difference between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses. polarised sunglasses are not necessarily better for eye health, as both polarised and non-polarised sunglasses come with UV protection. Another difference between the two types of lenses is the visual quality that each offers. Since polarised sunglasses are blocking out glare, they can end up seeming like a darker, clearer lens. 

So, are polarised anti-glare sunglasses better? While it is a matter of preference, there are some situations where non-polarised sunglasses might be more beneficial than polarised sunglasses. For example, polarised sunglasses are not recommended for use in the aviation environment. polarised lenses can also make it more difficult to see electronic screens, so pilots are advised to wear non-polarised sunglasses while flying.

 

What are the benefits of polarised sunglasses?

Polarised sunglasses can benefit anyone who participates in activities under direct sunlight or near the water. As polarised lenses also reduce glare, they improve visual clarity and enhance the world around us with vibrant colours. 

Polarised lenses can also enhance the colour contrast we see when exposed to the sun. This attribute benefits athletes, fishing enthusiasts, and outdoorsmen who want greater depth perception to enhance their performance.

Polarised sunglasses are perfect for time spent by the water, as they help eliminate the light that reflects from the surface. Similarly, polarised lenses are commonly found in ski goggles to improve performance and block the glare reflected off the snow.

Other benefits include:

– Many polarised sunglasses can offer 100% UV protection, but always check the product description to ensure this.

– You can add your prescription to polarised sunglasses so that you can see clearly and protect your eyes simultaneously. 

 

Should you get polarised sunglasses?

Regardless of whether you spend time on the water or near the snow, polarised sunglasses offer many practical applications for everyday life. Having a pair of go-to polarised sunglasses is a no-brainer if you are serious about protecting your eyes from UV light. However, if you need to view strictly digital screens for your job, such as if you are a pilot, you should not wear polarised sunglasses. Contact our opticians for advice if you are unsure whether polarised sunglasses are right for your lifestyle.

If your lifestyle involves spending a lot of time in the sun, you may be exposed to many objects where light is reflected horizontally, such as roads, puddles, cars, and buildings. There’s a high risk of experiencing sudden blinding moments as a result of the glare, which is very dangerous for driving. polarised sunglasses are also a good match if you’re an avid golfer, skier, or fisherman. 

The technology of polarised lenses reduces the light that affects your eyesight on a sunny day. Whether you enjoy a day on the lake or skiing down slopes, there are a variety of sunglasses with polarised lenses that will be perfect for you. 

If you’re interested in learning about other lenses, read about reflective lenses, Transitions® lenses, and much more. Once you decide which lenses are the best fit for you, have a look at the variety of sunglasses and prescription styles available at SmartBuyGlasses.

Sorry, we could not find the following product IDs in our database: 414065, 275157, 543603. Please check and use correct values.

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What Are Polarized Sunglasses?

Polarised sunglasses are high-functioning eyewear with many benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn what polarised sunglasses are good for and what the difference is between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses. If you’ve found yourself asking these questions and wondering whether or not polarised sunglasses are good for you, read on to find out more.

What does polarised sunglasses mean?

Polarised sunglasses will block out the horizontal blinding glare that causes you to squint. As the sun hits the surface horizontally, it will bounce off the surface causing the glare. polarised lenses block that glare using an anti-glare filter to create vertical openings for light to pass through. Not only do they make colours more distinguishable, but they also add clarity to your vision by reducing glare from the sun. Glare can be annoying and dangerous as it alters colours and causes visual discomfort, so polarised sunglasses can help you to see more clearly.

How do polarised sunglasses work?

Polarised lenses have opposite layers aligned at the opposite polars. These molecules absorb horizontally polarised light before it reaches your eyes but allow vertically polarised light to pass through. As direct sunlight is unpolarised, the polarisation filter doesn’t completely block out the light – but don’t worry, polarised sunglasses contain other coatings that protect your eyes from direct sunlight.

On the other hand, the benefits of blocking the horizontally reflected light are what make polarised lenses worth the money. You’ll notice this if you’ve ever looked at the water’s surface on a sunny day before and after putting on polarised lenses. 

How to tell if sunglasses are polarised

With the aspects of polarised lenses in mind, you can determine whether your sunglasses are polarised by looking through the lenses towards a reflective surface, such as water or pavement.  If you don’t experience blurry vision, you are probably wearing sunglasses with polarised lenses.

Another way to test your sunglasses is to put them on and look at your phone or tablet when switched on. If your screen is black, that means your sunglasses are polarised with a filter that blocks horizontally polarised light. All you have to do to see your screen is rotate your device 90 degrees.

What is the difference between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses?

The anti-glare coating on polarised lenses is the main difference between polarised and non-polarised sunglasses. polarised sunglasses are not necessarily better for eye health, as both polarised and non-polarised sunglasses come with UV protection. Another difference between the two types of lenses is the visual quality that each offers. Since polarised sunglasses are blocking out glare, they can end up seeming like a darker, clearer lens. 

So, are polarised anti-glare sunglasses better? While it is a matter of preference, there are some situations where non-polarised sunglasses might be more beneficial than polarised sunglasses. For example, polarised sunglasses are not recommended for use in the aviation environment. polarised lenses can also make it more difficult to see electronic screens, so pilots are advised to wear non-polarised sunglasses while flying.

What are the benefits of polarised sunglasses?

Polarised sunglasses can benefit anyone who participates in activities under direct sunlight or near the water. As polarised lenses also reduce glare, they improve visual clarity and enhance the world around us with vibrant colours. 

Polarised lenses can also enhance the colour contrast we see when exposed to the sun. This attribute benefits athletes, fishing enthusiasts, and outdoorsmen who want greater depth perception to enhance their performance.

Polarised sunglasses are perfect for time spent by the water, as they help eliminate the light that reflects from the surface. Similarly, polarised lenses are commonly found in ski goggles to improve performance and block the glare reflected off the snow.

Other benefits include:

– Many polarised sunglasses can offer 100% UV protection, but always check the product description to ensure this.

– You can add your prescription to polarised sunglasses so that you can see clearly and protect your eyes simultaneously. 

Should you get polarised sunglasses?

Regardless of whether you spend time on the water or near the snow, polarised sunglasses offer many practical applications for everyday life. Having a pair of go-to polarised sunglasses is a no-brainer if you are serious about protecting your eyes from UV light. However, if you need to view strictly digital screens for your job, such as if you are a pilot, you should not wear polarised sunglasses. Contact our opticians for advice if you are unsure whether polarised sunglasses are right for your lifestyle.

If your lifestyle involves spending a lot of time in the sun, you may be exposed to many objects where light is reflected horizontally, such as roads, puddles, cars, and buildings. There’s a high risk of experiencing sudden blinding moments as a result of the glare, which is very dangerous for driving. polarised sunglasses are also a good match if you’re an avid golfer, skier, or fisherman. 

The technology of polarised lenses reduces the light that affects your eyesight on a sunny day. Whether you enjoy a day on the lake or skiing down slopes, there are a variety of sunglasses with polarised lenses that will be perfect for you. 

If you’re interested in learning about other lenses, read about reflective lenses, Transitions® lenses, and much more. Once you decide which lenses are the best fit for you, have a look at the variety of sunglasses and prescription styles available at SmartBuyGlasses.

Sorry, we could not find the following product IDs in our database: 414065, 275157, 543603. Please check and use correct values.

UV Protection Sunglasses – How Different Protection Categories Work

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UV Protection Sunglasses - How Different Protection Categories Work

UV protection categories | Category 3 vs 4 | 100% UV protection vs polarised

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
All you need to know about different sunglasses UV protection categories. Choose yours based on your needs and lifestyle!

Many people use sunglasses as a fashion accessory to add a touch of sophistication to their style during the spring and summer months. However, not everyone is aware that UV sunglasses have a very practical purpose in addition to being fashionable.

The lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which are problematic on both clear and cloudy days. When exposed to the sun, our eye pupils constrict to filter the light before it hits our retina. When the UV rays are very strong, this natural filter isn’t enough and could lead to eye health issues. To help prevent various issues, you should wear sunglasses that provide UV protection.

People’s eyewear needs vary, so it’s only natural that sunglasses come with various lenses to accommodate various conditions and environments. The lenses usually fall into one of five levels that offer different UV filters in sunglasses.

UV protection categories chart

What is category 0 UV protection?

Category 0 blocks out only 3-20% of UV rays, so not a viable option for eye protection. Category 0 sunglasses are indicated for fashion purposes only; an example is softly coloured tinted lenses.

What is category 1 UV protection?

Category 1 blocks 20-57% of UV. Category 1 sunglasses are best suited for fashion purposes or cloudy days with little sun exposure. These types of sunnies usually have light tints, like grey or purple. 

What is category 2 UV protection?

Category 2 lenses block 57-82% of UV rays and are appropriate for partly overcast days. Category 2 sunglasses are typically lighter in colour than others. Perfect for spring!

What is category 3 UV protection?

Category 3 sunglasses block 82-92% of UV light, which makes these UV sunglasses an excellent choice for sun protection. These shades can be used in bright sunlight in the mountains or at the seaside.

What is category 4 UV protection?

Category 4 (UV400) lenses are the highest category available, blocking 92-97% of UV rays to provide maximum protection. Sunglasses with lens category 4 are ideal for exceptionally bright settings, such as at high elevations or sea.

However, it is important to note that they are unsuitable for driving due to the dark lens tint (even illegal in some countries like the UK).

DID YOU KNOW?
UV protection is the most important characteristic to look for when choosing your next pair of sunglasses. Categories 0, 1 and 2 are for fashion purposes. Category 3 is ideal for standard bright sunlight conditions and Category 4 is for exceptionally bright settings.

Should I get category 3 or 4 sunglasses?

To determine which UV protection category you should go for, you need to determine in which conditions you’ll use your sunglasses. Usually, most people buying sunglasses will get a standard category 3 pair. 

Category 3 is the most common, ideal for bright sunny days in cities and holidays in the mountains or seaside. Category 4 sunglasses have extremely dark lenses and are recommended for extra bright conditions when the sun is very intense. For example, hiking at high altitudes, in the desert, or sailing in the open sea.

Is 100% UV protection better than polarised?

100% UV protection and polarisation are two different things. While UV protection sunglasses are designed to protect your eyes, polarised sunglasses are designed to reduce glare so you can see more clearly without squinting. People who play video games, water sports, or are bothered by glare daily choose these lenses. 

Although polarisation has nothing to do with UV light absorption, many polarised lenses now have a UV-blocking material added to them. Older sunglasses with scratches on the coatings will not provide as much protection as newer UV protection sunglasses, so it is important to take care of them to ensure they protect your eyes.

Remember that UV protection is the most critical characteristic to look for and should be your top priority when buying sunglasses.

UV Protection Sunglasses - How Different Protection Categories Work

UV protection categories | Category 3 vs 4 | 100% UV protection vs polarised

By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene McKeeman FBDO

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
Updated On Mar 23, 2023
All you need to know about different sunglasses UV protection categories. Choose yours based on your needs and lifestyle!

Many people use sunglasses as a fashion accessory to add a touch of sophistication to their style during the spring and summer months.

However, not everyone is aware that UV sunglasses have a very practical purpose in addition to being fashionable.

The lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which are problematic on both clear and cloudy days. When exposed to the sun, our eye pupils constrict to filter the light before it hits our retina.

When the UV rays are very strong, this natural filter isn’t enough and could lead to eye health issues. To help prevent various issues, you should wear sunglasses that provide UV protection.

People’s eyewear needs vary, so it’s only natural that sunglasses come with various lenses to accommodate various conditions and environments. The lenses usually fall into one of five levels that offer different UV filters in sunglasses.

UV protection categories chart 2
What is category 0 UV protection?

Category 0 blocks out only 3-20% of UV rays, so not a viable option for eye protection. Category 0 sunglasses are indicated for fashion purposes only; an example is softly coloured tinted lenses.

What is category 1 UV protection?

Category 1 blocks 20-57% of UV. Category 1 sunglasses are best suited for fashion purposes or cloudy days with little sun exposure. These types of sunnies usually have light tints, like grey or purple.

What is category 2 UV protection?

Category 2 lenses block 57-82% of UV rays and are appropriate for partly overcast days. Category 2 sunglasses are typically lighter in colour than others. Perfect for spring!

What is category 3 UV protection?

Category 3 sunglasses block 82-92% of UV light, which makes these UV sunglasses an excellent choice for sun protection. These shades can be used in bright sunlight in the mountains or at the seaside.

What is category 4 UV protection?

Category 4 (UV400) lenses are the highest category available, blocking 92-97% of UV rays to provide maximum protection. Sunglasses with lens category 4 are ideal for exceptionally bright settings, such as at high elevations or sea.

However, it is important to note that they are unsuitable for driving due to the dark lens tint (even illegal in some countries like the UK).

DID YOU KNOW?
UV protection is the most important characteristic to look for when choosing your next pair of sunglasses. Categories 0, 1 and 2 are for fashion purposes. Category 3 is ideal for standard bright sunlight conditions and Category 4 is for exceptionally bright settings.

Should I get category 3 or 4 sunglasses?

To determine which UV protection category you should go for, you need to determine in which conditions you’ll use your sunglasses. Usually, most people buying sunglasses will get a standard category 3 pair. 

Category 3 is the most common, ideal for bright sunny days in cities and holidays in the mountains or seaside. Category 4 sunglasses have extremely dark lenses and are recommended for extra bright conditions when the sun is very intense. For example, hiking at high altitudes, in the desert, or sailing in the open sea.

Is 100% UV protection better than polarised?

100% UV protection and polarisation are two different things. While UV protection sunglasses are designed to protect your eyes, polarised sunglasses are designed to reduce glare so you can see more clearly without squinting.

People who play video games, water sports, or are bothered by glare daily choose these lenses. 

Although polarisation has nothing to do with UV light absorption, many polarised lenses now have a UV-blocking material added to them.

Older sunglasses with scratches on the coatings will not provide as much protection as newer UV protection sunglasses, so it is important to take care of them to ensure they protect your eyes.

Remember that UV protection is the most critical characteristic to look for and should be your top priority when buying sunglasses.

Is there a Difference Between Contact Lens and Glasses Prescription?

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Is Contact Lens Prescription the Same as Glasses?

If your vision needs correction, you may be prescribed a glasses prescription or contact lens prescription. Both help improve your vision, but are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same? A common query is if it’s possible to convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription. Read on to discover the answer to these intriguing questions regarding your prescription.

Are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same?

Even though the prescription for glasses vs contact lens prescription may look similar, they are quite different. Contact lenses and glasses correct refractive errors, such as myopia (finding it difficult to see objects far away), hyperopia (finding it difficult to see objects closeup), astigmatism (when your cornea or lens has a different shape than usual) and presbyopia (a refractive error that makes it hard for older adults to see things up close). 

Since prescription glasses rest slightly in front of your eyes, around 12 millimetres away, and contact lenses sit directly on them, you need two separate tests to determine their unique measurements. This means that the parameters specified on your glasses prescription may often differ from your contact lens prescription.

Prescription for glasses vs contacts: How to read glasses and contact lens prescriptions

After your eye test, you will receive a prescription card determining your specific prescription. Your glasses prescription and contact lens prescription will be provided on two different cards. Once you have these prescriptions, you can shop for your glasses or contact lenses online or in-store.

The key differences between a contact lens and a glasses prescription are shown in the image above. Contact lens prescriptions include certain specifications that are not on your glasses prescription, including: 

  1. Base Curve (BC): This measures the curvature of your lens and is based on your eye shape, measured in millimetres.
  2. Diameter (DIA): This specifies the size of the lens and how the lens fits on your actual eye in terms of width, measured in millimetres.
  3. Lens material: This includes the material of your contact lens, which can be either hydrogel or silicone.
  4. Brand manufacturer: There are thousands of contact lens brands out there, so placing the name of the contact lens brand helps with reordering in the future. The ‘brand’ section specifies the measurements and material.

The power/sph (sphere) indicates the lens power, which can be found on both glasses and contact lens prescriptions. On glasses prescriptions specifically, you can also find the cylinder (Cyl), which indicates the strength of astigmatism and the axis, which represents the orientation of the cylinder.  If you have multifocal lenses, an ‘ADD’ means the additional positive power required for the eyes to focus. The ‘prism’ section helps correct people with double vision, aiding in aligning two images so that only one image can be seen, which can only be found on glasses prescriptions. Furthermore, your contact lens prescription may also include an axis and cylinder if it is a lens for astigmatism or multifocal purposes. 

Can you convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription?

No, it is impossible to convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription directly. Furthermore, you cannot convert a contact lens prescription to a glasses prescription. Doctors can prescribe your contact lens prescription after you have completed a contact lens exam.

Can I use my glasses prescription for contact lenses?

As well as not being able to convert your prescriptions, you cannot use your glasses prescription to work out your contact lens prescription. It is important to note that only some people who wear glasses can also wear contact lenses. Therefore, it is recommended you get an eye test for both prescriptions. 

Are contact lenses or glasses better?

When choosing between contact lenses or glasses, we recommend you consider your lifestyle, comfort and price. For example, eyeglasses require little cleaning and maintenance, as well as not having to physically touch your eyes, helping to avoid the risk of eye infections. However, contact lenses do not fog up, which is useful when playing sports, but they can be more expensive than glasses. We recommend trying glasses and contact lenses to see which suits your lifestyle better.

Where to buy contact lenses and glasses online

You can find affordable glasses or contact lenses online or in-store at your local opticians as long as you have an up-to-date prescription. You can use our online Lens Scanner to reveal your current glasses prescription in minutes. However, if you haven’t had an eye exam in the last two years, we recommend booking an appointment to ensure your prescription is accurate. You will need a separate eye test to determine your contact lens prescription, but often you can get your contact lens exam performed at the same time as your eye exam.

So, whether you prefer to wear contact lenses or glasses, you need to book an up-to-date eye exam to ensure your eyes are healthy. Furthermore, remember that you cannot use the same prescription for your glasses and contact lenses and require two separate tests. 

Is Contact Lens Prescription the Same as Glasses?

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If your vision needs correction, you may be prescribed a glasses prescription or contact lens prescription. Both help improve your vision, but are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same? A common query is if it’s possible to convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription. Read on to discover the answer to these intriguing questions regarding your prescription.

Are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same?

Even though the prescription for glasses vs contact lens prescription may look similar, they are quite different. Contact lenses and glasses correct refractive errors, such as myopia (finding it difficult to see objects far away), hyperopia (finding it difficult to see objects closeup), astigmatism (when your cornea or lens has a different shape than usual) and presbyopia (a refractive error that makes it hard for older adults to see things up close). 

Since prescription glasses rest slightly in front of your eyes, around 12 millimetres away, and contact lenses sit directly on them, you need two separate tests to determine their unique measurements. This means that the parameters specified on your glasses prescription may often differ from your contact lens prescription.

Prescription for glasses vs contacts: How to read glasses and contact lens prescriptions

After your eye test, you will receive a prescription card determining your specific prescription. Your glasses prescription and contact lens prescription will be provided on two different cards. Once you have these prescriptions, you can shop for your glasses or contact lenses online or in-store.

The key differences between a contact lens and a glasses prescription are shown in the image above. Contact lens prescriptions include certain specifications that are not on your glasses prescription, including: 

  1. Base Curve (BC): This measures the curvature of your lens and is based on your eye shape, measured in millimetres.
  2. Diameter (DIA): This specifies the size of the lens and how the lens fits on your actual eye in terms of width, measured in millimetres.
  3. Lens material: This includes the material of your contact lens, which can be either hydrogel or silicone.
  4. Brand manufacturer: There are thousands of contact lens brands out there, so placing the name of the contact lens brand helps with reordering in the future. The ‘brand’ section specifies the measurements and material.

The power/sph (sphere) indicates the lens power, which can be found on both glasses and contact lens prescriptions. On glasses prescriptions specifically, you can also find the cylinder (Cyl), which indicates the strength of astigmatism and the axis, which represents the orientation of the cylinder.  If you have multifocal lenses, an ‘ADD’ means the additional positive power required for the eyes to focus. The ‘prism’ section helps correct people with double vision, aiding in aligning two images so that only one image can be seen, which can only be found on glasses prescriptions. Furthermore, your contact lens prescription may also include an axis and cylinder if it is a lens for astigmatism or multifocal purposes. 

Can you convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription?

No, it is impossible to convert a glasses prescription to a contact lens prescription directly. Furthermore, you cannot convert a contact lens prescription to a glasses prescription. Doctors can prescribe your contact lens prescription after you have completed a contact lens exam.

Can I use my glasses prescription for contact lenses?

As well as not being able to convert your prescriptions, you cannot use your glasses prescription to work out your contact lens prescription. It is important to note that only some people who wear glasses can also wear contact lenses. Therefore, it is recommended you get an eye test for both prescriptions. 

Are contact lenses or glasses better?

When choosing between contact lenses or glasses, we recommend you consider your lifestyle, comfort and price. For example, eyeglasses require little cleaning and maintenance, as well as not having to physically touch your eyes, helping to avoid the risk of eye infections. However, contact lenses do not fog up, which is useful when playing sports, but they can be more expensive than glasses. We recommend trying glasses and contact lenses to see which suits your lifestyle better.

Where to buy contact lenses and glasses online

You can find affordable glasses or contact lenses online or in-store at your local opticians as long as you have an up-to-date prescription. You can use our online Lens Scanner to reveal your current glasses prescription in minutes. However, if you haven’t had an eye exam in the last two years, we recommend booking an appointment to ensure your prescription is accurate. You will need a separate eye test to determine your contact lens prescription, but often you can get your contact lens exam performed at the same time as your eye exam.

So, whether you prefer to wear contact lenses or glasses, you need to book an up-to-date eye exam to ensure your eyes are healthy. Furthermore, remember that you cannot use the same prescription for your glasses and contact lenses and require two separate tests. 

Trivex vs Polycarbonate Lenses

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Trivex vs Polycarbonate Lenses

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Even more than the frame or design, the lenses you choose have a big influence on how happy you are with your glasses. When buying glasses, one of the most common mistakes people make is not giving enough thought to the lens materials, designs, and lens coatings. Your lens choice impacts your comfort, vision, and safety, as well as appearance.

 

Should I get Trivex or polycarbonate?

Buying prescription glasses is a difficult task. With so many lens material options and coatings, it’s easy to become overwhelmed about which ones are best for you. This article will give you insight into different types of lenses and help you to choose the best lenses for your needs.

 

Trivex vs Polycarbonate: Let’s look at the difference between the two lens materials

What are polycarbonate lenses?

Polycarbonate first appeared in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that companies first started to use it as an alternative to glass lenses. Polycarbonate pellets are heated to their melting point and inserted into lens moulds, while normal plastic lenses are manufactured using cast moulding. This alternative production method strengthens and improves the impact resistance of polycarbonate.

 

Therefore, polycarbonate lenses are made of a more impact-resistant plastic than regular plastic lenses. This material lenses are also significantly thinner and lighter than glass lenses. These qualities make it the best material for kid’s glasses, sports glasses, and safety glasses.

 

Both advantages and fallbacks of polycarbonate lenses are important to consider. Polycarbonate is more scratch resistant than plastic but less than trivex lenses. However, this can be mitigated if you apply a scratch-resistant coating to the lenses. 

 

The abbe value of a lens material correlates to the quality of vision through the lens. Due to the fact that polycarbonate lenses have a low abbe value, certain people with higher prescriptions and high astigmatism frequently complain that the lenses have poor optical clarity, distortion, or disrupt their peripheral vision.

 

Do polycarbonate lenses block UV?

Polycarbonate lenses block nearly the entire UV spectrum, including UVA and UVB. UV radiation is absorbed by the material, which prevents it from passing through. It is so effective that even a small layer of the material can effectively absorb UV rays. This shields the skin and eyes significantly better than any sun lotion could. 

 

In addition, polycarbonate transmits visible light, the part of the spectrum that allows us to perceive colour. Despite the fact that you may have to consider scratch-resistant coatings for polycarbonate lenses, an extra lens treatment for UV protection is not required. 

 

How to clean polycarbonate lenses

If you wear glasses, you know how aggravating it is to have dirt or grit on your lenses. In addition to being annoying, it can also cause eye strain and headaches. Make sure to keep your lenses clean for optimal optical clarity, whatever lens option you opt for. When cleaning your polycarbonate lenses, you should always take care. Here are some great tips to take the best care of your lenses. 

  • Before rubbing your lenses, gently rinse them with warm water to remove any dust or debris that could scratch them. If you live somewhere with hard water, use distilled water instead of tap water.
  • A microfibre cloth is the safest and most effective way to clean your glasses without creating stains or damage. Don’t be tempted to use your sleeve or the edge of your shirt!
  • It’s preferable to use a glasses cleaning solution or spray safe for polycarbonate and lens coatings. You can alternatively use lotion-free dish soap.
  • Shake off any excess water droplets from your glasses. Dry them using an air canister to avoid streaks and watermarks.

 

Now that you know more about polycarbonate lenses, let’s take a look at trivex lenses.

 

What are trivex lenses?

Trivex is a type of durable, lightweight plastic that has hit the market in recent years. While polycarbonate has been the industry standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children’s glasses for many years, many optometrists now recommend trivex lenses as an alternative.

 

While trivex is comparable to polycarbonate, it has a few key differences. Trivex was initially designed for military use in helicopter and fighter aircraft windows. The material’s chemistry was tailored for use in optical lenses in 2002, making trivex lenses one of the most durable and desirable lenses on the market.

Are Trivex lenses worth it?

To put it simply, trivex lenses are more comfortable than other plastic glasses lens materials, which is one of the most significant advantages. Trivex lenses are thinner than ordinary plastic lenses, with a 1.53 index.

 

They are also made from a lighter material than plastic lenses, so you won’t notice the weight of your lenses as you go about your day. Additionally, lightweight lenses are more comfortable and prevent the glasses from sliding down your nose or falling off your face. 

 

Similar to a polycarbonate lens, trivex lenses provide full UV protection. UV protection is built into the material of trivex lenses, which means the protection will not degrade over time. The UV protection only degrades if it is applied to the lens through a coating, which is not the case with trivex lenses.

 

A lot of people wonder, “Does Trivex scratch easily?”. Although trivex is clearer and lighter than polycarbonate, it’s just as tough. Trivex lenses have strong impact resistance and robustness, which makes them durable and resistant to cracks and breaks. These characteristics are ideal for designs such as rimless glasses. 

Trivex lenses have a higher Abbe value of 45, whereas polycarbonate lenses have an Abbe value of 30. This means that trivex will give you exceptionally clear vision thanks to their higher abbe value.

When you choose trivex lenses, you don’t have to compromise in terms of core features, but they may be more costly. Although they are more expensive than polycarbonate lenses, they are considered the ideal lens by many eye care specialists.

 

How thick are trivex lenses? 

Unlike lenses made from standard plastic, which tend to be around 2mm thick, trivex lenses are around 1.2mm. Since polycarbonate has a greater refraction index than trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), polycarbonate lenses are around 10% thinner. However, they are both excellent choices for thin lenses.

 

Are Trivex lenses better than polycarbonate?

Finding the best lens material for you depends on your needs and lifestyle. You can use this guide to decide if polycarbonate is the right match for your lenses or if you want to spend the extra money on trivex lenses. While we do not currently stock polycarbonate or trivex lenses, you can find a range of excellent lens choices for prescription eyeglasses when purchasing online with us.

 

Still unsure and need more information to make your lens material choice? Our optician is always available to help.

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Ask the Optician

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Trivex vs Polycarbonate Lenses

Even more than the frame or design, the lenses you choose have a big influence on how happy you are with your glasses. When buying glasses, one of the most common mistakes people make is not giving enough thought to the lens materials, designs, and lens coatings. Your lens choice impacts your comfort, vision, and safety, as well as appearance.

Should I get Trivex or polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate first appeared in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that companies first started to use it as an alternative to glass lenses. Polycarbonate pellets are heated to their melting point and inserted into lens moulds, while normal plastic lenses are manufactured using cast moulding. This alternative production method strengthens and improves the impact resistance of polycarbonate.

 

Therefore, polycarbonate lenses are made of a more impact-resistant plastic than regular plastic lenses. This material lenses are also significantly thinner and lighter than glass lenses. These qualities make it the best material for kid’s glasses, sports glasses, and safety glasses.

Both advantages and fallbacks of polycarbonate lenses are important to consider. Polycarbonate is more scratch resistant than plastic but less than trivex lenses. However, this can be mitigated if you apply a scratch-resistant coating to the lenses. 

 

The abbe value of a lens material correlates to the quality of vision through the lens. Due to the fact that polycarbonate lenses have a low abbe value, certain people with higher prescriptions and high astigmatism frequently complain that the lenses have poor optical clarity, distortion, or disrupt their peripheral vision.

 

Do polycarbonate lenses block UV?

Polycarbonate lenses block nearly the entire UV spectrum, including UVA and UVB. UV radiation is absorbed by the material, which prevents it from passing through. It is so effective that even a small layer of the material can effectively absorb UV rays. This shields the skin and eyes significantly better than any sun lotion could. 

 

In addition, polycarbonate transmits visible light, the part of the spectrum that allows us to perceive colour. Despite the fact that you may have to consider scratch-resistant coatings for polycarbonate lenses, an extra lens treatment for UV protection is not required. 

 

How to clean polycarbonate lenses

If you wear glasses, you know how aggravating it is to have dirt or grit on your lenses. In addition to being annoying, it can also cause eye strain and headaches. Make sure to keep your lenses clean for optimal optical clarity, whatever lens option you opt for. When cleaning your polycarbonate lenses, you should always take care. Here are some great tips to take the best care of your lenses. 

 

  • Before rubbing your lenses, gently rinse them with warm water to remove any dust or debris that could scratch them. If you live somewhere with hard water, use distilled water instead of tap water.
  • A microfiber cloth is the safest and most effective way to clean your glasses without creating stains or damage. Don’t be tempted to use your sleeve or the edge of your shirt!
  • It’s preferable to use a glasses cleaning solution or spray safe for polycarbonate and lens coatings. You can alternatively use lotion-free dish soap.
  • Shake off any excess water droplets from your glasses. Dry them using an air canister to avoid streaks and watermarks.

 

Now that you know more about polycarbonate lenses, let’s take a look at trivex lenses.

 

What are trivex lenses?

Trivex is a type of durable, lightweight plastic that has hit the market in recent years. While polycarbonate has been the industry standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children’s glasses for many years, many optometrists now recommend trivex lenses as an alternative.

 

While trivex is comparable to polycarbonate, it has a few key differences. Trivex was initially designed for military use in helicopter and fighter aircraft windows. The material’s chemistry was tailored for use in optical lenses in 2002, making trivex lenses one of the most durable and desirable lenses on the market.

Are Trivex lenses worth it?

To put it simply, trivex lenses are more comfortable than other plastic glasses lens materials, which is one of the most significant advantages. Trivex lenses are thinner than ordinary plastic lenses, with a 1.53 index.

 

They are also made from a lighter material than plastic lenses, so you won’t notice the weight of your lenses as you go about your day. Additionally, lightweight lenses are more comfortable and prevent the glasses from sliding down your nose or falling off your face. 

 

Similar to a polycarbonate lens, trivex lenses provide full UV protection. UV protection is built into the material of trivex lenses, which means the protection will not degrade over time. The UV protection only degrades if it is applied to the lens through a coating, which is not the case with trivex lenses.

 

A lot of people wonder, “Does Trivex scratch easily?”. Although trivex is clearer and lighter than polycarbonate, it’s just as tough. Trivex lenses have strong impact resistance and robustness, which makes them durable and resistant to cracks and breaks. These characteristics are ideal for designs such as rimless glasses. 

 

Trivex lenses have a higher Abbe value of 45, whereas polycarbonate lenses have an Abbe value of 30. This means that trivex will give you exceptionally clear vision thanks to their higher abbe value.

When you choose trivex lenses, you don’t have to compromise in terms of core features, but they may be more costly. Although they are more expensive than polycarbonate lenses, they are considered the ideal lens by many eye care specialists.

 

How thick are trivex lenses? 

Unlike lenses made from standard plastic, which tend to be around 2mm thick, trivex lenses are around 1.2mm. Since polycarbonate has a greater refraction index than trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), polycarbonate lenses are around 10% thinner. However, they are both excellent choices for thin lenses.

 

Are Trivex lenses better than polycarbonate?

Finding the best lens material for you depends on your needs and lifestyle. You can use this guide to decide if polycarbonate is the right match for your lenses or if you want to spend the extra money on trivex lenses. While we do not currently stock polycarbonate or trivex lenses, you can find a range of excellent lens choices for prescription eyeglasses when purchasing online with us.

Still unsure and need more information to make your lens material choice? Our optician is always available to help.

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Do Sunglasses Lenses Deteriorate With Time?

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Do Sunglasses Lenses Deteriorate With Time?

If you’re wondering whether sunglasses lenses deteriorate over time, the answer is (somewhat unhelpfully) yes and no. Expert opinions about this issue are rather mixed in the field of eyewear, so finding a conclusive (and unbiased) answer is difficult to say the least.

 

Sunglasses Lens Deterioration: The Science

While some researchers have found that the sun’s rays damage sunglasses lenses and that lens replacement is a must, some medical professionals have voiced an opposing view: sunglasses only have to be replaced if the surface is damaged or scratched. The medical opinion is based on the pretence that scratched lenses offer less UV protection.

We do not endorse either viewpoint (although perhaps we could if we invested in a large-scale science and research department), but we do suggest that you change your sunglasses every two years – just to be on the safe side.

Nowadays, sunglasses are not just a tool to protect our eyes from harmful UV rays. They’re also an important statement piece for us to showcase our unique sense of style. Most of us have that one pair of fashionable sunglasses or cool shades that just suit our style so well that we have kept them around for years – or even decades! If the researchers are to be believed, it might be time to part with your beloved sunnies, up your fashion game and get yourselves a pair from our selection of tens of thousands.

 

How to Ensure Your Glasses Have UV Protection

You might be wondering if your lenses are still up to the task of staving off harmful UV rays, but (more importantly) you should probably check whether your lenses even have this function to begin with. 

So, how do you go about finding this out? The answer is pretty easy. Simply check if your sunglasses have a CE mark to find out. The CE label indicates that these glasses are conforming with the appropriate international standard – i.e. compliance with European regulations – of UV protection and ensures that your eyes will be properly shielded against harmful ultraviolet rays.

So, now that you know how to identify legitimate UV protection in sunglasses, it is up to you to figure out whether you think it’s a good time for a replacement pair of sunglasses.

 

I’m A UV Protection Whiz and I’m Looking for Some New Sunglasses. What Now?

Congratulations. You’ve got the hardest steps out of the way. Now, it’s time to select a pair of sunglasses – or even glasses – that’s right for you. At SmartBuyGlasses we’re proud to host a whole range of luxury brands, value models, cutting-edge technologies and more. We stock loads of brands that offer progressive lenses – just select your new prescription on checkout. If you’ve seen a pair you like the look of, but aren’t sure how they’ll look ‘on-face’, why don’t you have a look at…

 

Virtual Try-On

SmartBuyGlasses’ revolutionary Virtual Try-On tool is an advanced online solution to the problem of not being able to check out a pair of glasses in-hand. It’s simple and free! See what you look like wearing different designer sunglasses or eyeglasses from home in just 2 easy steps.

Step 1: record your selfie video. We’ll walk you through a simple process and show you how to use your desktop or mobile camera to record a quick, five-second selfie video.

Step 2: virtually try-on glasses online! Go to the brand page of any glasses you’d like to virtually try-on. Then, filter by ‘Virtual Try-On’ in the special features option. You can see yourself wearing any of the glasses that appear! We have over 5,000 pairs of eyeglasses and 6,000 pairs of sunglasses just a few clicks away from appearing on your face!

Given the current pandemic, going to your local opticians’ or eyewear store isn’t so easy at the moment. The Virtual Try-On eliminates the stress of making your mind up in person, the time wasted going to and from the store, and the typically high costs of visiting a brick-and-mortar shop. It really is the perfect socially distanced try-before-you-buy!

Arise Collective™ Clarity Prescription Lenses

SmartBuyGlasses offers groundbreaking durability, pristine clarity and perfect vision – all in the same lenses. Arise Collective™ Clarity prescription lenses are made for the everyday wearer, but also offer advanced protection making them suitable for any adventure.

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.

Simply choose any frames you like, enter your prescription and select Arise Collective™ Clarity for your lens type. Let’s get started!

zFORT® Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Blue light is a potentially harmful form of light. While it is naturally emitted by the sun, electronic devices (upon which we’re spending more and more time every day) are also high-level producers. Blue light rays at a wavelength between 415nm – 455nm can damage your retinal cells, which may lead to premature eye ageing and vision problems in the future.

Our exposure to these harmful light rays may also cause a range of other health problems, including poor sleep (according to a 2012 Harvard Medical School study). Find out more about how to protect your eyes from blue light with anti blue light glasses from zFORT®.

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Ask the Optician

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Do Sunglasses Lenses Deteriorate With Time?

If you’re wondering whether sunglasses lenses deteriorate over time, the answer is (somewhat unhelpfully) yes and no. Expert opinions about this issue are rather mixed in the field of eyewear, so finding a conclusive (and unbiased) answer is difficult to say the least.

Sunglasses Lens Deterioration: The Science

While some researchers have found that the sun’s rays damage sunglasses lenses and that lens replacement is a must, some medical professionals have voiced an opposing view: sunglasses only have to be replaced if the surface is damaged or scratched. The medical opinion is based on the pretence that scratched lenses offer less UV protection.

We do not endorse either viewpoint (although perhaps we could if we invested in a large-scale science and research department), but we do suggest that you change your sunglasses every two years – just to be on the safe side.

Nowadays, sunglasses are not just a tool to protect our eyes from harmful UV rays. They’re also an important statement piece for us to showcase our unique sense of style. Most of us have that one pair of fashionable sunglasses or cool shades that just suit our style so well that we have kept them around for years – or even decades! If the researchers are to be believed, it might be time to part with your beloved sunnies, up your fashion game and get yourselves a pair from our selection of tens of thousands.

How to Ensure Your Glasses Have UV Protection

You might be wondering if your lenses are still up to the task of staving off harmful UV rays, but (more importantly) you should probably check whether your lenses even have this function to begin with. 

So, how do you go about finding this out? The answer is pretty easy. Simply check if your sunglasses have a CE mark to find out. The CE label indicates that these glasses are conforming with the appropriate international standard – i.e. compliance with European regulations – of UV protection and ensures that your eyes will be properly shielded against harmful ultraviolet rays.

So, now that you know how to identify legitimate UV protection in sunglasses, it is up to you to figure out whether you think it’s a good time for a replacement pair of sunglasses.

I’m A UV Protection Whiz and I’m Looking for Some New Sunglasses. What Now?

Congratulations. You’ve got the hardest steps out of the way. Now, it’s time to select a pair of sunglasses – or even glasses – that’s right for you. At SmartBuyGlasses we’re proud to host a whole range of luxury brands, value models, cutting-edge technologies and more. We stock loads of brands that offer progressive lenses – just select your new prescription on checkout. If you’ve seen a pair you like the look of, but aren’t sure how they’ll look ‘on-face’, why don’t you have a look at…

Virtual Try-On

SmartBuyGlasses’ revolutionary Virtual Try-On tool is an advanced online solution to the problem of not being able to check out a pair of glasses in-hand. It’s simple and free! See what you look like wearing different designer sunglasses or eyeglasses from home in just 2 easy steps.

Step 1: record your selfie video. We’ll walk you through a simple process and show you how to use your desktop or mobile camera to record a quick, five-second selfie video.

Step 2: try on glasses online! Go to the brand page of any glasses you’d like to virtually try on. Then, filter by ‘virtual try-on’ in the special features option. You can see yourself wearing any of the glasses that appear! We have over 5,000 pairs of eyeglasses and 6,000 pairs of sunglasses just a few clicks away from appearing on your face!

Given the current pandemic, going to your local opticians’ or eyewear store isn’t so easy at the moment. Virtual Try-On eliminates the stress of making your mind up in person, the time wasted going to and from the store, and the typically high costs of visiting a brick-and-mortar shop. It really is the perfect socially distanced try-before-you-buy!

Arise Collective™ Clarity Prescription Lenses

SmartBuyGlasses offers groundbreaking durability, pristine clarity and perfect vision – all in the same lenses. Arise Collective™ Clarity prescription lenses are made for the everyday wearer, but also offer advanced protection making them suitable for any adventure.

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.

Simply choose any frames you like, enter your prescription and select Arise Collective™ Clarity for your lens type. Let’s get started!

zFORT® Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Blue light is a potentially harmful form of light. While it is naturally emitted by the sun, electronic devices (upon which we’re spending more and more time every day) are also high-level producers. Blue light rays at a wavelength between 415nm – 455nm can damage your retinal cells, which may lead to premature eye ageing and vision problems in the future.

Our exposure to these harmful light rays may also cause a range of other health problems, including poor sleep (according to a 2012 Harvard Medical School study). Find out more about how to protect your eyes from blue light with anti blue light glasses from zFORT®.

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SHOP FOR WOMEN

Folding Reading Glasses- No More Bulky Specs Cases

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Folding Reading Glasses- No More Bulky Specs Cases

Folding reading glasses merge the convenience of folding glasses and the benefits of reading glasses. Let’s take a deeper look into how they make our lives easier.

Folding glasses are designed to fold in half at the nose bridge for convenient storing. If you have small bags or are looking to keep your glasses in your car, then foldable glasses are a great option. Foldable glasses also make for a great pair of backups. No one wants to drag around two pairs of glasses in case something happens to their original pair. However, with a pair of foldable glasses, being extra cautious is no longer an inconvenience. You can be sure that you are always prepared without dealing with your second pair taking up extra space.

Reading glasses can help the wearer to see or read objects in close range such as small text, mobile phones, and computer screens. As one approaches the age of 40, they may develop symptoms of presbyopia. This is when the crystalline lenses in your eyes become less flexible and hence, make you struggle to focus on text up close.

Now, you’ll be able to read small texts and see small objects without having to squint or feel self-conscious in social contexts. Folding reading glasses are especially convenient to have around. Often, those who wear reading glasses don’t wear them all the time. Typically, cheap reading glasses are used for reading small print or text on the computer. Whether you wear traditional reading glasses or computer reading glasses, you could benefit from having a conveniently transportable pair. After all, you never know when you might need them.

 

Who Needs Folding Reading Glasses?

-Those who don’t need to wear reading glasses for an extended period of time. Say you’re traveling and are reading maps, restaurant menus, or tour guides, but struggle to just read the small text. Folding reading glasses come to the rescue as they’re sleek enough to slide into your pocket, backpack, or purse. Just use them when you need them and put them back.

-Those who feel self-conscious wearing glasses. If you are one of those people who need glasses only to see particular things-such as text up close, or distant objects, but don’t like to wear contact lenses, and will go at any lengths to avoid wearing them, folding reading glasses are for you. So, just take out your folding reading glasses from your pocket or clutch, elegantly slide them on your face, use them for the few minutes that they’re needed, and hide them again as if nothing happened.

-Presbyopic patients with busy lifestyles. If you have presbyopic symptoms, you most likely need reading glasses in certain situations. Now, if you lead a busy lifestyle where you are caught unaware in need of reading glasses and you’re not carrying around a bulky case at that moment, we’ve got you. With folding reading glasses, you can conveniently always have your mini reading glasses at your disposal in your pocket or clutch. They’re lightweight, barely take up space and save you from the hassle of having to depend on your friend’s pair of glasses or asking someone to read things out to you.

With foldable reading glasses, you don’t have to carry around a bulky case just for reading a menu at a restaurant or reading a text from your phone screen. You want to be able to pop your glasses on and off without having the carry-around hassle. That’s where folding reading glasses come in. They are easily considered the best reading glasses by some simply for their practicality. After all, the whole point of over-the-counter reading glasses is that they’re a convenient alternative to prescription glasses.

 

What strength reading glasses do you need?

Since presbyopia is of a progressive nature, we suggest starting out with low powered reading glasses for patients in their 40s and high powered lenses for those in their 60’s. Glasses with +1.00 power are considered to be of low strength and have relatively lesser magnification, whilst those with +3.50 are considered to be high power lenses.

If you’ll be using reading glasses primarily while using the computer, we advise choosing a lower reading glass power. A lower reading glass power is used when the viewing distance is longer. In contrast, if you’ll be using reading glasses to see objects that are very close or very small, you’ll need stronger strength lenses with higher magnification than what the age-based reading glasses power chart would recommend.

Generally speaking, if there are two reading glasses between which you can’t choose, it’s better to select the ones with lower power because more often than not, reading glasses that are too strong may cause more discomfort than the weaker powered ones.

 

Prescription folding reading glasses

While it might be convenient to purchase over-the-counter reading glasses, there are some advantages to getting a prescription for your reading glasses. The main reason for this being that your eyes might need different corrections, which can only be done with a prescription from your eye doctor.

 

Best Folding Reading Glasses

When it comes to ordering prescription reading glasses online, the process is rather simple. With SmartBuyGlasses you can shop from over 180 designer brands and match your frames to your personal prescription. For cheap reading glasses, SmartBuy Readers offers a wide range of quality frames for under $30.

If top-notch quality and timeless sleekness are what you’re after, check out folding reading glasses by Porsche Design. Crafted with stainless steel and high tech polyamide, these reading glasses are tough on durability and light in weight.

If you like the idea of convenient foldable reading glasses, you’ll love foldable sunglasses! Like reading glasses, most people don’t wear their sunglasses all day and they spend the majority of the time taking up space in your car or bag. However, just like reading glasses, there are endless benefits of wearing sunglasses and when you need them, you need them. That’s why foldable sunglasses are just as great as folding reading glasses! Read more about Persol lens technology here.

 

Men’s Folding Reading Glasses

With SmartBuyGlasses you can also search our prescription folding reading glasses by Persol, a leading designer brand. When you order the Persol PO9714VM folding reading glasses all you have to do is add your reading glasses’ prescription at check out. It’s really as simple as that! And now you have your prescription folding reading glasses ready to be delivered directly to your door. What’s more, these are the ultimate mini folding reading glasses that are so sleek that they’ll fit in your pocket!

Another remarkable pair to opt for would be the CliC Vunetic Tenore Black. These glasses are magnetically joined at the bridge of the nose and framed with 20% acetate polymers and 80% TR90, a material that makes this pair capable of flexing and twisting without breaking. These folding reading glasses are made in Italy and when worn, give a touch of glamor that distinguishes the wearer from others.

Now that you’ve learned about the benefits of folding reading glasses, what are you waiting for? Check out our collection of cheap reading glasses. You may also be interested in learning about single vision lenses for your next pair of readers.

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Folding Reading Glasses- No More Bulky Specs Cases

Folding reading glasses merge the convenience of folding glasses and the benefits of reading glasses. Let’s take a deeper look into how they make our lives easier.

Folding glasses are designed to fold in half at the nose bridge for convenient storing. If you have small bags or are looking to keep your glasses in your car, then foldable glasses are a great option. Foldable glasses also make for a great pair of backups. No one wants to drag around two pairs of glasses in case something happens to their original pair. However, with a pair of foldable glasses, being extra cautious is no longer an inconvenience. You can be sure that you are always prepared without dealing with your second pair taking up extra space.

Reading glasses can help the wearer to see or read objects in close range such as small text, mobile phones, and computer screens. As one approaches the age of 40, they may develop symptoms of presbyopia. This is when the crystalline lenses in your eyes become less flexible and hence, make you struggle to focus on text up close.

Now, you’ll be able to read small texts and see small objects without having to squint or feel self-conscious in social contexts. Folding reading glasses are especially convenient to have around. Often, those who wear reading glasses don’t wear them all the time. Typically, cheap reading glasses are used for reading small print or text on the computer. Whether you wear traditional reading glasses or computer reading glasses, you could benefit from having a conveniently transportable pair. After all, you never know when you might need them.

Who Needs Folding Reading Glasses?

-Those who don’t need to wear reading glasses for an extended period of time. Say you’re traveling and are reading maps, restaurant menus, or tour guides, but struggle to just read the small text. Folding reading glasses come to the rescue as they’re sleek enough to slide into your pocket, backpack, or purse. Just use them when you need them and put them back.

-Those who feel self-conscious wearing glasses. If you are one of those people who need glasses only to see particular things-such as text up close, or distant objects, but don’t like to wear contact lenses, and will go at any lengths to avoid wearing them, folding reading glasses are for you. So, just take out your folding reading glasses from your pocket or clutch, elegantly slide them on your face, use them for the few minutes that they’re needed, and hide them again as if nothing happened.

-Presbyopic patients with busy lifestyles. If you have presbyopic symptoms, you most likely need reading glasses in certain situations. Now, if you lead a busy lifestyle where you are caught unaware in need of reading glasses and you’re not carrying around a bulky case at that moment, we’ve got you. With folding reading glasses, you can conveniently always have your mini reading glasses at your disposal in your pocket or clutch. They’re lightweight, barely take up space and save you from the hassle of having to depend on your friend’s pair of glasses or asking someone to read things out to you.

With foldable reading glasses, you don’t have to carry around a bulky case just for reading a menu at a restaurant or reading a text from your phone screen. You want to be able to pop your glasses on and off without having the carry-around hassle. That’s where folding reading glasses come in. They are easily considered the best reading glasses by some simply for their practicality. After all, the whole point of over-the-counter reading glasses is that they’re a convenient alternative to prescription glasses.

What strength reading glasses do you need?

Since presbyopia is of a progressive nature, we suggest starting out with low powered reading glasses for patients in their 40s and high powered lenses for those in their 60’s. Glasses with +1.00 power are considered to be of low strength and have relatively lesser magnification, whilst those with +3.50 are considered to be high power lenses.

If you’ll be using reading glasses primarily while using the computer, we advise choosing a lower reading glass power. A lower reading glass power is used when the viewing distance is longer. In contrast, if you’ll be using reading glasses to see objects that are very close or very small, you’ll need stronger strength lenses with higher magnification than what the age-based reading glasses power chart would recommend.

Generally speaking, if there are two reading glasses between which you can’t choose, it’s better to select the ones with lower power because more often than not, reading glasses that are too strong may cause more discomfort than the weaker powered ones.

Prescription folding reading glasses

While it might be convenient to purchase over-the-counter reading glasses, there are some advantages to getting a prescription for your reading glasses. The main reason for this being that your eyes might need different corrections, which can only be done with a prescription from your eye doctor.

Best Folding Reading Glasses

When it comes to ordering prescription reading glasses online, the process is rather simple. With SmartBuyGlasses you can shop from over 180 designer brands and match your frames to your personal prescription. For cheap reading glasses, SmartBuy Readers offers a wide range of quality frames for under $30.

If top-notch quality and timeless sleekness are what you’re after, check out folding reading glasses by Porsche Design. Crafted with stainless steel and high tech polyamide, these reading glasses are tough on durability and light in weight.

If you like the idea of convenient foldable reading glasses, you’ll love foldable sunglasses! Like reading glasses, most people don’t wear their sunglasses all day and they spend the majority of the time taking up space in your car or bag. However, just like reading glasses, there are endless benefits of wearing sunglasses and when you need them, you need them. That’s why foldable sunglasses are just as great as folding reading glasses! Read more about Persol lens technology here.

Men’s Folding Reading Glasses

With SmartBuyGlasses you can also search our prescription folding reading glasses by Persol, a leading designer brand. When you order the Persol PO9714VM folding reading glasses all you have to do is add your reading glasses’ prescription at check out. It’s really as simple as that! And now you have your prescription folding reading glasses ready to be delivered directly to your door. What’s more, these are the ultimate mini folding reading glasses that are so sleek that they’ll fit in your pocket!

Another remarkable pair to opt for would be the CliC Vunetic Tenore Black. These glasses are magnetically joined at the bridge of the nose and framed with 20% acetate polymers and 80% TR90, a material that makes this pair capable of flexing and twisting without breaking. These folding reading glasses are made in Italy and when worn, give a touch of glamor that distinguishes the wearer from others.

Now that you’ve learned about the benefits of folding reading glasses, what are you waiting for? Check out our collection of cheap reading glasses. You may also be interested in learning about single vision lenses for your next pair of readers.

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How to Read Your Prescription

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How to Read Your Prescription

If you’re wondering how to read your prescription, we’re here to help. You may be entirely new to wearing prescription glasses, or you’ve just received an up-to-date prescription and want to understand what it means. Understanding your glasses prescription is helpful if you want to know the severity of your visual impairment or want to shop online for your prescription glasses. Read on to discover the ins and outs of your vision.

 

How to read your eye prescription

Your prescription can be either digital or on paper, and it will probably look something like the example above. As you can see, these many abbreviations and optical terms can be intimidating. If you’re wondering what OD and OS mean and all the other words on the chart, see the list of abbreviations below. 

 

Eye prescription chart abbreviations

You might need a different prescription for each eye, so the eye prescription chart has a section for both. Note that some prescription charts might only have two different sections with no titles.

LE, L or OS: This indicates your left eye.

RE, R or OD: This indicates your right eye. 

SPH (sphere): The sphere indicates the correction needed for shortsighted or longsighted, which is spherical because it’s the same across the eye’s surface. Being longsighted is also known as hyperopia, or hypermetropia, which occurs when you struggle to see things up close while you see far away objects more clearly (even if still not crystal clear). If you are longsighted, the strength of the lenses will be marked with a plus sign in the sphere section. On the other hand, shortsighted, also known as myopia, is when you struggle to see far away. If you are nearsighted, your sphere eye prescription will be marked with a minus sign. The more difficulty you have seeing objects up close, the higher your measurement will be. On the contrary, the more you struggle to see far-away objects, the lower the measurement on your SPH section will be.

CYL (cylinder): CYL in your eye prescription indicates the amount of lens power you need to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is when an irregular curve in your eye’s lens or cornea can blur near and far objects. If your CYL section is blank, you have no astigmatism.

Axis: If your prescription includes cylinder power, it must also have an axis on your eye prescription. The axis indicates the angle between an astigmatic eye’s two sections, ranging from 1 to 180. If you have an axis on your prescription card, you have astigmatism.

Prism: This section indicates the need to add a prism to the lenses to bend light differently than regular ones. Prism is prescribed to correct double vision, which happens when the eyes don’t work together. Most prescriptions do not contain prism details. When they do, the optician will include the direction for the position of the prism “base.” Abbreviations are used for prism direction: BU = base up; BD = base down; BI = base in (toward the wearer’s nose); BO = base out (toward the wearer’s ear). It is possible to have both horizontal (BI or BO) and vertical (BU or BD) prism. 

ADD (addition): Usually located on the far right side of your eye prescription, ADD stands for addition. It indicates the additional correction you may require for reading, which is used in bifocal glasses, reading glasses, or varifocal glasses. 

PD (pupillary distance): Knowing your pupillary distance (PD) is essential when ordering prescription glasses online. The PD is the distance between the centre of one pupil to the centre of the other pupil, measured in millimetres. When you buy glasses online, you should enter your PD to ensure your prescription sits precisely where your eyes need it. The pupillary distance on your prescription is often located at the bottom of the prescription card. If there is no PD on your prescription, you can use our pupillary distance tool to get it in minutes.

 

How bad is my eye prescription?

If you think your eye prescription is bad, it might be that you just saw too many numbers and terms on your eye prescription chart, and you’re now worried about it. You need to know that there is no bad or good eye prescription. It may just be that your prescription is stronger than usual. For example, a refractive correction for nearsightedness of -5 diopters or more is often considered “high myopia,” whereas a prescription of +5.25 or more might be classified as “high hyperopia.” Whether your eye prescription is higher or lower, all you need are a pair of stylish glasses that fit your face shape!

 

How often does eye prescription change?

Your eye prescription will probably change over time. This depends on your vision’s conditions and needs. Some people’s glasses prescription changes every two years. For others, it might take longer, like three or five years, or even more. The eyes grow older just like every other part of our body, so it’s only normal that, in time, our vision may need a little help. For instance, you can expect to develop presbyopia as you get older (it typically happens to most people in their thirties or forties). To help correct this, you can get a pair of reading glasses or incorporate new progressive lenses into your regular frames.

You might also be wondering how long is an eye prescription good for. Eye prescriptions often expire in two years. Your optometrist should include the date of issue and expiration on your prescription. We recommend always checking your country’s laws regarding eye prescriptions and contacting your optician for regular check-ups.

 

Buying prescription glasses online

Now that you understand how to read your prescription, it’s time to shop for a new pair of glasses! At SmartBuyGlasses, you can browse thousands of designer brands at affordable prices and even use our 3D Virtual Try-On tool to try your frames virtually before buying. Once you have selected your favourite pair, you can attach a photograph of your prescription or enter the details manually. Shopping for glasses online has never been easier at SmartBuyGlasses, where you can consult an online optician about eye care anytime.

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How to Read Your Prescription

If you’re wondering how to read your prescription, we’re here to help. You may be entirely new to wearing prescription glasses, or you’ve just received an up-to-date prescription and want to understand what it means. Understanding your glasses prescription is helpful if you want to know the severity of your visual impairment or want to shop online for your prescription glasses. Read on to discover the ins and outs of your vision.

 

How to read your eye prescription

 

Your prescription can be either digital or on paper, and it will probably look something like the example above. As you can see, these many abbreviations and optical terms can be intimidating. If you’re wondering what OD and OS mean and all the other words on the chart, see the list of abbreviations below. 

 

Eye prescription chart abbreviations

You might need a different prescription for each eye, so the eye prescription chart has a section for both. Note that some prescription charts might only have two different sections with no titles.

 

LE, L or OS: This indicates your left eye.

RE, R or OD: This indicates your right eye. 

 

SPH (sphere): The sphere indicates the correction needed for shortsighted or longsighted, which is spherical because it’s the same across the eye’s surface. Being longsighted is also known as hyperopia, or hypermetropia, which occurs when you struggle to see things up close while you see far away objects more clearly (even if still not crystal clear). If you are longsighted, the strength of the lenses will be marked with a plus sign in the sphere section. On the other hand, shortsighted, also known as myopia, is when you struggle to see far away. If you are nearsighted, your sphere eye prescription will be marked with a minus sign. The more difficulty you have seeing objects up close, the higher your measurement will be. On the contrary, the more you struggle to see far-away objects, the lower the measurement on your SPH section will be.

 

CYL (cylinder): CYL in your eye prescription indicates the amount of lens power you need to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is when an irregular curve in your eye’s lens or cornea can blur near and far objects. If your CYL section is blank, you have no astigmatism.

 

Axis: If your prescription includes cylinder power, it must also have an axis on your eye prescription. The axis indicates the angle between an astigmatic eye’s two sections, ranging from 1 to 180. If you have an axis on your prescription card, you have astigmatism.

 

Prism: This section indicates the need to add a prism to the lenses to bend light differently than regular ones. Prism is prescribed to correct double vision, which happens when the eyes don’t work together. Most prescriptions do not contain prism details. When they do, the optician will include the direction for the position of the prism “base.” Abbreviations are used for prism direction: BU = base up; BD = base down; BI = base in (toward the wearer’s nose); BO = base out (toward the wearer’s ear). It is possible to have both horizontal (BI or BO) and vertical (BU or BD) prism. 

 

ADD (addition): Usually located on the far right side of your eye prescription, ADD stands for addition. It indicates the additional correction you may require for reading, which is used in bifocal glasses, reading glasses, or varifocal glasses. 

 

PD (pupillary distance): Knowing your pupillary distance (PD) is essential when ordering prescription glasses online. The PD is the distance between the centre of one pupil to the centre of the other pupil, measured in millimetres. When you buy glasses online, you should enter your PD to ensure your prescription sits precisely where your eyes need it. The pupillary distance on your prescription is often located at the bottom of the prescription card. If there is no PD on your prescription, you can use our pupillary distance tool to get it in minutes.

 

How bad is my eye prescription?

If you think your eye prescription is bad, it might be that you just saw too many numbers and terms on your eye prescription chart, and you’re now worried about it. You need to know that there is no bad or good eye prescription. It may just be that your prescription is stronger than usual. For example, a refractive correction for nearsightedness of -5 diopters or more is often considered “high myopia,” whereas a prescription of +5.25 or more might be classified as “high hyperopia.” Whether your eye prescription is higher or lower, all you need are a pair of stylish glasses that fit your face shape!



 

How often does eye prescription change?

Your eye prescription will probably change over time. This depends on your vision’s conditions and needs. Some people’s glasses prescription changes every two years. For others, it might take longer, like three or five years, or even more. The eyes grow older just like every other part of our body, so it’s only normal that, in time, our vision may need a little help. For instance, you can expect to develop presbyopia as you get older (it typically happens to most people in their thirties or forties). To help correct this, you can get a pair of reading glasses or incorporate new progressive lenses into your regular frames.

 

You might also be wondering how long is an eye prescription good for. Eye prescriptions often expire in two years. Your optometrist should include the date of issue and expiration on your prescription. We recommend always checking your country’s laws regarding eye prescriptions and contacting your optician for regular check-ups.

 

Buying prescription glasses online

Now that you understand how to read your prescription, it’s time to shop for a new pair of glasses! At SmartBuyGlasses, you can browse thousands of designer brands at affordable prices and even use our 3D Virtual Try-On tool to try your frames digitally before buying. Once you have selected your favourite pair, you can attach a photograph of your prescription or enter the details manually. Shopping for glasses online has never been easier at SmartBuyGlasses, where you can consult an online optician about eye care anytime.

What are Progressive Lenses?

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What are Progressive Lenses?

If you’ve heard people talking about multi-lens glasses and wondered what are progressive lenses, these insights will answer your question.

As we naturally age, our body goes through many changes, one of which is that our eyes can deteriorate and slowly lose the ability to see clearly. Usually, over the age of 40, eye aging is very common and will lead to eye fatigue and the need for corrective lenses for near tasks. In most cases, if there is more than one vision issue, such as the need for single-vision lenses and reading glasses or different types of single-vision lenses, it might be best to opt for progressive lenses for your prescription glasses.

 

Progressive lenses are a type of multifocal lens. Multifocal lenses have multiple prescriptions built into one lens to correct distances, so you can easily see far, intermediate and near distances with just one pair of glasses. Progressive lenses have no lines between the different prescriptions, so you can easily change between different vision distances with a smooth transition.

For a deeper dive into progressive lenses, watch our video below for further insights.

 

Do I need progressive lenses?

Progressive lenses are a type of eyeglass lens that can help improve vision for people with presbyopia, a vision condition caused by aging. It is caused by the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on near objects. Without progressive lenses, many individuals experience difficulty seeing both near and far objects clearly. Progressives may be the best option if you are experiencing eye strain when focusing on text or other details at multiple distances. Your eye care professional can perform an eye exam to determine if progressive lenses will help improve your vision and overall visual clarity and comfort at all distances.

 

Progressive lenses vs. bifocals

Consider your lifestyle and personal preferences when deciding which lens is best appropriate for you.

 

 

Bifocal lenses and trifocals

Bifocals have separate prescription zones for near and far vision. You’ll have your distance correction at the top, while your near vision correction is at the bottom. This lens has a distinct line (called a bifocal line) between each value which causes an image jump when the eye moves from a far distance to a near one.

Trifocal lenses work the same way as bifocal but have three instead of two distinct sections, so three prescriptions. With a trifocal lens, you’ll be able to point to the three zones for near, intermediate and distance vision. These lenses are less recommended than bifocals or progressives because people might experience image jumps and visual distortions too often while wearing them.

 

Progressive lenses

Progressive glasses help correct all focal points without visible lines, unlike single-vision eyeglasses, bifocals, or trifocals. In a progressive lens, each area transitions from one visual correction to another, allowing smoother vision. The upper portion of the lens is adapted for distance vision. It gradually increases into the intermediate prescription in the middle portion, which corrects anything at an arm’s length away (like looking at computer screens). Finally, a progressive lens increases in power towards the bottom portion of the lens, designed for other “close-up” tasks, like checking a price tag or using your smartphone.

 

Is it worth getting progressive lenses?

Progressive lenses are an update on bifocal and trifocal lenses. With progressive lenses, you won’t need to have more than one pair of glasses with you. No need to swap between your reading and regular glasses. Plus, the unique design of a progressive lens allows for no issues of image jumps for different distances.

The only downside is that progressive lenses cost is higher than single vision lenses or bifocals. Still, given their convenient design and the fact that they correct vision smoothly at multiple distances, most wearers find the price to be worth it. 

 

How to get used to progressive lenses?

If you’re planning on getting your first pair of progressive lenses, it may take you a few weeks to get used to them. Take into account this learning period and read our tips below. Talk to your eye doctor if you’re still having trouble adapting to your new lenses after one or two weeks.

 

Tips for getting used to progressive lenses and enjoying clear vision

Move your head. Moving your head more is one of the first and most essential steps to adapting to your new progressive lenses. You should use your lenses by moving your head towards an object you want to focus on instead of simply moving your eyes. For example, a good way to do this is to point your nose to what you want to look at.

Looking down through the bottom of the lens is meant for looking at nearby objects, while looking straight ahead is for distance viewing. Looking slightly lower than straight ahead is for intermediate viewing, like a computer screen. Remember that all of your prescriptions are built into the lenses.

Don’t switch between single-vision prescription glasses. Aim only to use your new pair of progressive glasses, which will help you learn how to use them the correct way quickly.

 

What are the best progressive lenses?

There are different lens options for progressive lenses. The latest generation of progressive lenses, known as “free-form” lenses, are made with a computer-aided manufacturing process to reduce aberrations. Each lens is customised precisely to the position of the wearer’s eye, taking into account your pupillary distance and the surface of the lens when looking in different directions. This manufacturing process provides the sharpest, crispest image possible and enhances peripheral vision. 

 

Check out our other articles for more eye health advice, or ask our certified online opticians for any doubts or questions you may have.

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What are Progressive Lenses?

If you’ve heard people talking about multi-lens glasses and wondered what are progressive lenses, these insights will answer your question.

As we naturally age, our body goes through many changes, one of which is that our eyes can deteriorate and slowly lose the ability to see clearly. Usually, over the age of 40, eye aging is very common and will lead to eye fatigue and the need for corrective lenses for near tasks. In most cases, if there is more than one vision issue, such as the need for single-vision lenses and reading glasses or different types of single-vision lenses, it might be best to opt for progressive lenses for your prescription glasses.

 

Progressive lenses are a type of multifocal lens. Multifocal lenses have multiple prescriptions built into one lens to correct distances, so you can easily see far, intermediate and near distances with just one pair of glasses. Progressive lenses have no lines between the different prescriptions, so you can easily change between different vision distances with a smooth transition.

For a deeper dive into progressive lenses, watch our video below for further insights.

 

Do I need progressive lenses?

Progressive lenses are a type of eyeglass lens that can help improve vision for people with presbyopia, a vision condition caused by aging. It is caused by the gradual loss of your eye’s ability to focus on near objects. Without progressive lenses, many individuals experience difficulty seeing both near and far objects clearly. Progressives may be the best option if you are experiencing eye strain when focusing on text or other details at multiple distances. Your eye care professional can perform an eye exam to determine if progressive lenses will help improve your vision and overall visual clarity and comfort at all distances.

 

Progressive lenses vs. bifocals

Consider your lifestyle and personal preferences when deciding which lens is best appropriate for you.

 

 

Bifocal lenses and trifocals

Bifocals have separate prescription zones for near and far vision. You’ll have your distance correction at the top, while your near vision correction is at the bottom. This lens has a distinct line (called a bifocal line) between each value which causes an image jump when the eye moves from a far distance to a near one.

Trifocal lenses work the same way as bifocal but have three instead of two distinct sections, so three prescriptions. With a trifocal lens, you’ll be able to point to the three zones for near, intermediate and distance vision. These lenses are less recommended than bifocals or progressives because people might experience image jumps and visual distortions too often while wearing them.

 

Progressive lenses

Progressive glasses help correct all focal points without visible lines, unlike single-vision eyeglasses, bifocals, or trifocals. In a progressive lens, each area transitions from one visual correction to another, allowing smoother vision. The upper portion of the lens is adapted for distance vision. It gradually increases into the intermediate prescription in the middle portion, which corrects anything at an arm’s length away (like looking at computer screens). Finally, a progressive lens increases in power towards the bottom portion of the lens, designed for other “close-up” tasks, like checking a price tag or using your smartphone.

 

Is it worth getting progressive lenses?

Progressive lenses are an update on bifocal and trifocal lenses. With progressive lenses, you won’t need to have more than one pair of glasses with you. No need to swap between your reading and regular glasses. Plus, the unique design of a progressive lens allows for no issues of image jumps for different distances.

The only downside is that progressive lenses cost is higher than single vision lenses or bifocals. Still, given their convenient design and the fact that they correct vision smoothly at multiple distances, most wearers find the price to be worth it. 

 

How to get used to progressive lenses?

If you’re planning on getting your first pair of progressive lenses, it may take you a few weeks to get used to them. Take into account this learning period and read our tips below. Talk to your eye doctor if you’re still having trouble adapting to your new lenses after one or two weeks.

 

Tips for getting used to progressive lenses and enjoying clear vision

Move your head. Moving your head more is one of the first and most essential steps to adapting to your new progressive lenses. You should use your lenses by moving your head towards an object you want to focus on instead of simply moving your eyes. For example, a good way to do this is to point your nose to what you want to look at.

Looking down through the bottom of the lens is meant for looking at nearby objects, while looking straight ahead is for distance viewing. Looking slightly lower than straight ahead is for intermediate viewing, like a computer screen. Remember that all of your prescriptions are built into the lenses.

Don’t switch between single-vision prescription glasses. Aim only to use your new pair of progressive glasses, which will help you learn how to use them the correct way quickly.

 

What are the best progressive lenses?

There are different lens options for progressive lenses. The latest generation of progressive lenses, known as “free-form” lenses, are made with a computer-aided manufacturing process to reduce aberrations. Each lens is customised precisely to the position of the wearer’s eye, taking into account your pupillary distance and the surface of the lens when looking in different directions. This manufacturing process provides the sharpest, crispest image possible and enhances peripheral vision. 

 

Check out our other articles for more eye health advice, or ask our certified online opticians for any doubts or questions you may have.

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What Is the Difference Between Nearsighted and Farsighted?

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What Is the Difference Between Nearsighted and Farsighted?

If you find that your eyesight isn’t perfect, then you may need a pair of distance glasses. 

Our vision can change over time due to age, eye injuries, dry eyes, health conditions, genetics, and even smoking. The type of glasses you need depends on many factors. In this article, we will explore distance glasses to help you determine whether or not they are suitable for you. 

 

What are distance glasses for?

Distance glasses allow you to see far and/or near objects if your eyesight is blurry or your eyes aren’t able to focus well. Let’s look at the four main types of distance glasses that help correct your vision.

 

Single vision distance glasses

Distance glasses that help correct single vision are most common. Single vision refers to myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) and can also be combined with astigmatism. 

If focusing on far-away objects is difficult, then you likely have myopia. Distance glasses for nearsightedness (-0.00) allow you to clearly see far away objects that may otherwise appear blurry. 

On the contrary, hyperopia (+0.00) is when you can see far away objects but have trouble with ones that are near. 

Astigmatism (CYL & Axis) is essentially a misshaped cornea that makes your eyesight blurry or distorted. However, there are various degrees of astigmatism and it is quite normal to have this type of correction. 

 

Multifocal lenses

If you require more than one vision correction you may need bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses. 

Bifocal or trifocals have lenses divided by visible lines which indicate where one power value stops and another starts. Bifocals and trifocals can help correct presbyopia, which makes it difficult to switch from a distant to a near object. Trifocals also help correct intermediate vision, which bifocals do not do. 

Progressive lenses offer a more seamless way to correct multiple visions because they don’t have the line that indicates the transition. 

 

Computer glasses

Computer glasses are different from regular eyeglasses or reading glasses because their main purpose is to reduce DES (digital eye strain). 

It is also common to add blue light blocker to computer glasses to further protect your eyesight from the impacts of prolonged exposure to digital devices. 

 

Reading glasses

As we age, our vision can require a little extra help to focus on nearby objects. Whether you need glasses to read a book or tell what’s on your shopping list, you can find affordable and stylish reading glasses online. 

 

Can you use reading glasses for distance? 

Reading glasses help you see small prints or near objects (usually 35cm away from your face) to correct hyperopia or presbyopia. They come in varying powers depending on the amount of magnification you need. 

Since they correct your vision for objects up close, reading glasses are not suitable for distance. A different type of lens is better to ensure you get the vision correction you need.

 

When should I wear my distance glasses?

When you should wear distance glasses depends on your prescription, eye needs, and even your lifestyle. Consult your local optician and discuss when it is most appropriate to use your distance glasses. For example, you wouldn’t operate a vehicle without glasses if you have myopia. 

You can wear most distance glasses every day, all day. If you feel your vision is clearer and they are comfortable, why not? 

Eyesight issues can cause blurry vision, headaches, eye fatigue, and more. Distance glasses help prevent or reduce these issues so you can enjoy your day-to-day activities. 

Always consult your optician and eye doctor to better understand when to wear your distance glasses.

 

Conclusion

Certain prescriptions will require you to wear distance glasses at all times or occasionally. If you just need assistance to read, you might only need reading glasses rather than distance glasses.

Once you speak with your optician and eye doctor and determine the vision correction you need (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, etc.), you may ask yourself where to buy distance glasses? SmartBuyGlasses is a great place to start because we offer a range of practical and trendy prescription glasses to fit your every eye need, from single vision to progressive lenses.

So, do you think you need distance glasses?

 

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What Is the Difference Between Nearsighted and Farsighted?

If you find that your eyesight isn’t perfect, then you may need a pair of distance glasses. 

Our vision can change over time due to age, eye injuries, dry eyes, health conditions, genetics, and even smoking. The type of glasses you need depends on many factors. In this article, we will explore distance glasses to help you determine whether or not they are suitable for you. 

What are distance glasses for?

Distance glasses allow you to see far and/or near objects if your eyesight is blurry or your eyes aren’t able to focus well. Let’s look at the four main types of distance glasses that help correct your vision.

Single vision distance glasses

Distance glasses that help correct single vision are most common. Single vision refers to myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) and can also be combined with astigmatism. 

If focusing on far-away objects is difficult, then you likely have myopia. Distance glasses for nearsightedness (-0.00) allow you to clearly see far away objects that may otherwise appear blurry. 

On the contrary, hyperopia (+0.00) is when you can see far away objects but have trouble with ones that are near. 

Astigmatism (CYL & Axis) is essentially a misshaped cornea that makes your eyesight blurry or distorted. However, there are various degrees of astigmatism and it is quite normal to have this type of correction. 

Multifocal lenses

If you require more than one vision correction you may need bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses. 

Bifocal or trifocals have lenses divided by visible lines which indicate where one power value stops and another starts. Bifocals and trifocals can help correct presbyopia, which makes it difficult to switch from a distant to a near object. Trifocals also help correct intermediate vision, which bifocals do not do. 

Progressive lenses offer a more seamless way to correct multiple visions because they don’t have the line that indicates the transition. 

Computer glasses

Computer glasses are different from regular eyeglasses or reading glasses because their main purpose is to reduce DES (digital eye strain). 

It is also common to add blue light blocker to computer glasses to further protect your eyesight from the impacts of prolonged exposure to digital devices. 

Reading glasses

As we age, our vision can require a little extra help to focus on nearby objects. Whether you need glasses to read a book or tell what’s on your shopping list, you can find affordable and stylish reading glasses online. 

Can you use reading glasses for distance? 

Reading glasses help you see small prints or near objects (usually 35cm away from your face) to correct hyperopia or presbyopia. They come in varying powers depending on the amount of magnification you need. 

Since they correct your vision for objects up close, reading glasses are not suitable for distance. A different type of lens is better to ensure you get the vision correction you need.

When should I wear my distance glasses?

When you should wear distance glasses depends on your prescription, eye needs, and even your lifestyle. Consult your local optician and discuss when it is most appropriate to use your distance glasses. For example, you wouldn’t operate a vehicle without glasses if you have myopia. 

You can wear most distance glasses every day, all day. If you feel your vision is clearer and they are comfortable, why not? 

Eyesight issues can cause blurry vision, headaches, eye fatigue, and more. Distance glasses help prevent or reduce these issues so you can enjoy your day-to-day activities. 

Always consult your optician and eye doctor to better understand when to wear your distance glasses.

Conclusion

Certain prescriptions will require you to wear distance glasses at all times or occasionally. If you just need assistance to read, you might only need reading glasses rather than distance glasses.

Once you speak with your optician and eye doctor and determine the vision correction you need (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, etc.), you may ask yourself where to buy distance glasses? SmartBuyGlasses is a great place to start because we offer a range of practical and trendy prescription glasses to fit your every eye need, from single vision to progressive lenses.

So, do you think you need distance glasses?

SHOP FOR MEN
SHOP FOR WOMEN