Too many lens choices? All the lens types explained

If you’re new to glasses, the sheer choice of lenses and coatings can seem overwhelming. The type of glasses lenses you’ll need depends on several things besides your vision needs, such as your lifestyle and your job. And when it comes to treatments, there’s a wide range of effective and beneficial products to choose from.

With this brief guide, we’ll explain more about the kinds of lenses that are available and who they suit best.

Single vision lenses

Usually prescribed for people under 40 with only one type of visual requirement, single lenses correct myopia (short-sightedness) or hyperopia (long-sightedness). If, for example, you can read without difficulty, but you struggle to see the television clearly, you’ll need single vision lenses.

Bifocal lenses

Bifocal lenses are divided into two parts to cater for people who have trouble with both near and distance vision. They are a practical and convenient alternative to having separate eye frames for each prescription, and are usually worn by people over the age of 40, as this is the age at which the crystalline lens inside the eye naturally begins to lose its ability to focus on near objects. Bifocal glasses have a top section for distance vision and a bottom section for near vision.

Varifocal lenses

Varifocal lenses are designed for people with a range of visual needs. They have different sections for viewing objects at varying distances, enabling you to have just one pair of glasses for daily activities such as driving, reading and using a computer. They are typically prescribed to people over 40, as this is when the eye naturally begins to lose its ability to focus on close objects.

Occupational lenses

As the name suggests, occupational glasses are designed to allow you to work or enjoy your hobbies with clearer vision. They’re a step up from reading glasses, as they allow you to see closer objects clearly, such as a book you’re reading, but also provide clarity for slightly longer distances, like viewing a computer screen or reading music from a stand. They essentially bridge the gap between reading glasses and varifocals.

Treatments

A host of treatments is available for your optician glasses or sunglasses. These include:

• Anti-reflection or anti-glare coating – helps to cut down on distracting glare from sunlight or artificial lights.
• Scratch-resistant treatment – provides enhanced protection against scratches, giving your glasses greater longevity.
• Blue light filter – a popular option, this helps to reduce eye strain from looking at screens. The tint absorbs some of the blue light emitted, making it more comfortable to work at a computer.
• Sun and UV tint – softens harsh, bright light to relieve eye strain.
• Reactive treatment – reacts to varying light conditions to provide comfort in a range of light levels.

Whatever your visual needs, we at The Eye Establishment can help you find the perfect pair of glasses. We specialise in Japanese handmade frames and international brands, providing eyewear that’s made with exquisite precision from the finest materials. Browse our products online or get in touch with our team today to book an appointment.