How Different Types of Lenses Impact Vision
When we get glasses for our kids, we’re usually concerned with the frames—Do they fit? Are they stylish? How does my kid feel wearing them?—and we’re less likely to think about the lenses.
Improving vision is the point of eyeglasses and selecting the right lenses are important. While the type of lenses may be prescribed by your children’s eye doctor, there are other considerations like lens material and coatings that you will want to consider. These are all factors that can influence vision quality and should accessed during the selection process.
Some lenses address specific visual problems:
Aspheric lenses: They don’t have a rounded or curved surface like conventional lenses. Instead, the curvature changes from the middle of the lens to the edge. They’re often used to correct minor vision problems. These lenses are thin and lightweight.
Hi-index lenses: For more severe vision problems these innovative plastic lenses are lightweight and thin, which is a blessing for people with strong prescriptions. Hi-index lenses let kids avoid the “coke bottle” look and added bulk.
Bifocal lenses: For patients who are both nearsighted and farsighted. The top of the lens is for distance vision and the bottom half is for close vision. Generally, older people usually wear bifocals but sometimes, kids also need them. Progressive lenses are an alternative to bifocals because they don’t have the telltale “bifocal line” across the middle of the lens—something kids often prefer.
Lenses and Coatings for Sunlight and Glare
For children sensitive to light, there are several types of lenses to solve this problem.
Photochromic lenses: They turn dark when exposed to light, eliminating the need for a separate pair of sunglasses. Think of this as a 2 for 1 purchase and far more convenient than remembering to bring two pairs.
Polarized lenses: They decrease glare reflected from different objects, making images look clearer. These are available for prescription and non-prescription sunglasses.
Anti-reflective coating: Reduces glare, especially from night halos.
UV-guard coating: Protects eyes from harmful sun rays.
Blue light lenses: Reduce eye discomfort and sleep disruption caused by the light from computer and smart device screens.
Kid-Proof Lenses
Lets face it, kids will be kids and certain lenses are better suited for playability.
Scratch-resistant lenses: The name says it all, but remember they’re not entirely scratch proof. However, they cut back significantly on scratches.
Polycarbonate lenses: Impact-resistant, durable and among the toughest lenses around, they also have built-in UV filters. Many eye doctors won’t use any other lens for kids because of their comfort, safety and resilience.
Fitz offers many of these lens and coating options so we have your kids covered and glasses solved.