Getting New Glasses? 4 Options to Consider

People think picking out a pair of glasses is only about choosing frames to go with whatever lenses their optometrist prescribes for them. You can customize your glasses with enhancements that suit your needs and style. 

Here are four questions to ask yourself when you have to choose from when it’s time for you to buy new glasses. 

1) What are the best lens materials for new glasses?

We’ll start with the basics. Glasses’ lenses can be made of the following materials: 

Plastic: Since it was first introduced in 1947, plastic (specifically a plastic polymer called CR-39) has been a popular material for lenses because of its light weight, low cost and excellent optical qualities. However, these lenses tend to be thicker than other types of available lenses.
Polycarbonate: Lightweight and up to 10 times stronger than CR-39 plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, polycarbonate is often a preferred material for children’s wear, safety glasses, and sports eyewear. 
High-index plastic: With individuals seeking thinner and lighter eyewear, some manufacturers now offer high-index plastic lenses, which are the thinnest lenses available. They’re designed to improve comfort and attractiveness for those with high prescriptions.
Glass: Glass is rarely used nowadays because it’s heavy and can shatter easily, which could cause serious damage to your eyes. Almost all contemporary “glasses” don’t have any glass in them.

2) What’s the difference between single vision, bifocal, and trifocal lenses?

Once you choose a lens material, your doctor will prescribe you single vision, bifocal, or trifocal glasses. Single vision lenses are prescribed if you need correction for one field of vision (there are three: distance, intermediate and near vision). Bifocals generally focus on distance and near vision, and trifocals focus on all three. In a nutshell, bifocals and trifocals allow people to see clearly at different distances without having to change glasses depending on the situation. 

3) What lens enhancements should I consider when buying new glasses?

In addition to your lens type and material, you can add lens enhancements to improve comfort and protection. Below is a list of some of your options:

Scratch-resistant coating: A clear coating that reduces the likelihood of your lenses becoming scratched
Anti-glare (antireflective) coating: A coating that increases a lens’s light transmission. It also reduces the amount of light reflected from the lens surface and eliminates ghost images
No-line bifocal or trifocal (progressive) lenses: Line-free lenses with smooth transitions from distance to intermediate to near vision
Light-reactive (photochromic adaptive) lenses: Light-sensitive lenses that darken when exposed to sunlight and lighten when sun exposure is reduced
UV protection: A lens treatment that absorbs the harmful portion of UV light found in sunlight

4) How do I choose the best frames for my new glasses?

The last step is to find the frames that are best for you. This is generally a matter of style preference and comfort, and there are many frame materials that range from plastics to metals you can choose from. The rule of thumb here is to find frames you like and fit your face comfortably. So, make sure you try them on to get a feel for how they fit and look. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: Can I save money on glasses with vision insurance?

Yes, having vision insurance can help you save hundreds of dollars annually on glasses and eye care. If you don’t have vision coverage, you can easily compare and purchase a vision plan online, often in less than 10 minutes.

Question: Why is polycarbonate often recommended for children’s glasses?

Polycarbonate lenses are up to 10 times stronger than standard plastic lenses, making them highly impact-resistant for sports use.. Their lightweight nature also adds comfort for everyday wear.

Question: What should I consider when choosing glasses for sports or active lifestyles?

For sports or active-use glasses, look for polycarbonate lenses due to their impact resistance and durability. The frames should be lightweight, secure, and comfortable. Consider wraparound styles for extra protection and stability to wear during sports.

Question: How do I know if I need UV protection on my glasses?

UV protection is recommended for everyone, as it helps block harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun that can damage your eyes over time. Most modern lenses can be treated with UV-blocking coatings, making it easy to add this feature for better long-term eye health.

Ready to choose your next pair of glasses?

VSP® can help with your eye care needs. Enjoying better sight can last a lifetime. If you don’t have vision insurance, you can purchase a new plan in less than 10 minutes and end up saving hundreds annually when you buy glasses. If you haven’t yet enrolled in a vision plan, take a few minutes to compare plans and find the right individual insurance plan for you.

Information received through VSP Individual Vision Plans’ social media channels is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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