It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Polarization refers to a lens ability to reduce haze and glare in bright sun, but polarization alone does not protect your eyes from UV radiation. As more and more movies continue to be released in 3D, as well as the rise in 3D TVs and gaming systems, some are beginning to wonder if there are potential health concerns to consider, especially in the area of eye health. She regularly presents educational lectures and articles on eye health and nutrition, and has co-authored two best-selling books on these subjects; Eyefoods: A Food Plan for Healthy Eyes and Eyefoods for Kids: A Tasty Guide to Nutrition and Eye Health. Without this coating, the light that reflects off your glasses can render it difficult for those looking at you to see your eyes. If you live in an area with frequent precipitation or go in and outdoors several times per day, this coating can be very beneficial. How do you know whats right for you? Also, the type of lens material matters. What is the role of a patient advocate in critical care. UVB Rays: UVB rays are directly harmful to DNA and are most responsible for sunburns. Choose sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection and they will also absorb most of the harmful blue light, also known as HEV rays. These choices involve coatings that protect you from the suns rays, but it is important to understand the difference and why UV protection is particularly important for your eyes. Over time, the UV protection in sunglasses will decrease, but it will take years to do so. But the coating must be added to regular plastic lenses to make them UV-blocking glasses. Then there are the frames: square or round shaped? Partially absorbed by the ozone layer. These strategies range from the basics of safe contact care to tips and tricks for cold weather, summer heat and many other issues. Good quality sunglasses have a UV film embedded in the lens so it is protected. UV coating can be applied to any plastic or glass lenses for maximized protection. Heavy gamers or wearers who spend long hours on a computer may even opt for lenses in bronze, copper, or a reddish-brown tint for the best protection against HEV rays. Enjoy it free with all EBD glasses. If you feel pressured, Vitale says, you may want to look elsewhere.. Wearing blue-light-filtering lenses during prolonged computer or tablet use filters out harmful blue light for enhanced safety and melatonin production at night. Another option for people who wear glasses is prescription sunglasses. Sunglasses come in many lens colour options, and while this is to some extent a matter of personal preference, grey lenses are best for allowing you to see colours properly. Choose a brand known for the quality of its lenseslike Wiley X, Maui Jim, or Ray-Banfor sunglasses that come standard with UV protection. If your glasses are a type that do not have UV protection be sure to ask us about having UV coating added. By checking this box you won't have to sign in as often on this device. Please note that our color tints cannot be added to polarized or photochromic lenses. For example, our premium photochromic and polycarbonate lenses include 100% UV protection as a built-in feature. There are three types of ultraviolet radiationUVA, UVB, and UVC. Someone who wears glasses may have a hard time finding comfortable and attractive sunglass options. While blue light serves the purpose of keeping us alert during the day, too much blue light exposure can interfere with our circadian rhythms, making it difficult to fall asleep. In most cases, yes. The difference between the terms polarization or polarized sunglasses, and UV sunglasses, can be confusing. UV rays can harm your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and eye cancer. Dr. Jackie Schwartz, Fort Lauderdale Optometrist. The advantages of these eyeglass lenses are: So now you see the advantages of the 4 most popular types of eyeglass lens coatings. See our latest collections & exclusive offers before the crowd! If you werent longing for the visual experience of a half-finished ghost costume on Halloween, you might want to invest in an anti-fog coating on your lenses. Everything you need to know about our lenses. According to the AAO, polycarbonate lenses and other high-index plastics, like Trivex, offer 100% UV protection. Who might consider: Most people, but AR coating may be especially useful for those who often drive at night (it can reduce reflections from headlights at night) and read on computers. Everything you need to know about our lenses. Typically applied on both sides of an eyeglass lens, this coating, also known as AR or anti-glare, reduces the amount of light reflected off the surfaces of spectacle lenses, and may enhance the contrast of certain scenes, says Scott E. Brodie, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology at NYU Langone Health in New York City. If youre very sensitive to light, you may suffer from excessive tearing. All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story. (The term anti-glare is a misnomer, however, says Brodie, and glarethink oncoming headlightsis better addressed with polarized lenses than with AR.). What youll pay: Tints cost an average of $74.67, according to the Vision Councils VisionWatch market research for December 2019. The advantages of having UVC lenses in your eyeglasses include: BLF lenses are characterized by having filters in the lenses that block or absorb blue light. Hues range from light tints like a pastel blue or pink to deeper shades used for sunglasses. Today many of us spend a lot of time looking at computer, tablet or cell phone screens. Sunglasses that offer UV protection are essential for keeping your eyes healthy throughout your lifetime. The truth: A tint may make some color contrasts more visible to people with partial color impairment but may make other contrasts harder to see, so its a trade-off. To help you sort through the common choices, weve gathered advice and cost information from vision experts and major eyeglass retailers, and December 2019 VisionWatch market research from the Vision Council, a nonprofit trade association for the optical industry. But once youve picked frames and lenses, theres a wide variety of lens coatings to consider, each with its own propertiesfrom light reduction to scratch resistance. When theres a lack of moisture from inadequate tear production, the quality of tears, [], Virtual Reality & Eye Health Technology is an essential part of our everyday life, for work and play. Understanding and treating thyroid eye disease, Understanding and treating Crohns disease, Understanding your treatment options for MS, Your guide to managing wet age-related macular degeneration, A patients guide to managing ankylosing spondylitis, Managing and slowing the progression of psoriatic arthritis, Back to school pediatric ADHD headquarters, If your children are young Jedi in training and love to battle the Force with laser-driven light weapons, heres something you need to know. Condensation can occur when youre exerting yourself during exercise or while wearing a face mask, as many of us have discovered since 2020. But tints may also help improve contrast for those with degenerative retinal disorders or light sensitivity. Use scratch-resistant coating to bolster your lenss lifespan. 6201 N. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308. In many cases, eyeglass lenses come bundled with certain coatings, commonly those that reduce reflections or bolster scratch resistance. Anti-reflective coating can be particularly beneficial if you spend lots of time on the computer or driving at night. The sun is present in the sky even on cloudy days, so your eyes should have UV protection no matter what the weather. Around of UV damage to your eyes occurs before the age of 20. Many glasses wouldnt last a day without this, Vitale says. Yes. Adding a UV coating to your Rx lenses is easy, and often comes free with the lenses you order from FramesDirect.com. | Privacy Policy | My Account. Fortunately, UVC rays are completely filtered out by the ozone layer, so the only sources of this wavelength are man made (i.e. This coating will make your glasses less vulnerable to scratching if you happen to drop them or clean them with an abrasive cloth. We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. Youve painstakingly looked through a myriad of different frames and settled on the ones that best suit your aestheticonly to be offered an array of lens coatings. Wire or plastic? But, since harmful blue light is emitted from LED screens, while UV light is emitted from the sun, it may be worthwhile to opt for both coatings to ensure extra protection. This type of light can also be damaging to the eyes. One limitation of photochromic coating is that because most car windshields have UV protection built in, photochromic lenses dont darken while you are driving or in the passengers seat of a car. Driving day and night? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Blue blocking costs $50 at Warby Parker and starts at $19 at EyeBuyDirect. Harmful blue light: up to 455nm with the greatest toxicity between 415-455nm, only one contributing factor of retinal aging. Lenses that offer this should be labeled 100 percent UV protection or UV400. We offer premium Transitions and basic photochromic lenses. Some of our specialty lenses include these and other advanced coatings. Gradient tint can only be applied to lenses for frames above 36mm in height. Photochromic lenses block visible light to make things look darker the way that sunglasses do. What youll pay: Usually included in the price of glasses, but more robust scratch resistance may be built in to some upgraded lens packages. I know some house brands out there that are pretty similar to the premium versions, says master optician Michael Vitale, vice president of membership and technical affairs at The Vision Council. Several superior options are available for your lenses from Wise Eyes Optical: Scratch and Impact-resistant coating, Ultraviolet Protective Coating, Anti-reflective/Anti-glare Coating, and Hydrophobic Coating. At EyeBuyDirect, for instance, its included with an upgrade to thinner lenses. Our AR lenses include an additional coating that repels water and smudges. Contact us with any questions about specific frames or how to add UV coating to your glasses. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Fortunately, these symptoms are usually temporary. Lenses with this premium coating stay sparkling twice as long. Knowing the basics of popular lens coatings can help you feel prepared before your next optometrist appointment. Water repellant coating keeps water drop, dirt, and smudges off your lenses while making them easier to clean. Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. There are 4 popular lens coating types you should know about: AR lenses are characterized by being clearer and having less reflection, fewer reflections, and containing a hydrophobic layer that repels water. When buying eyeglasses, you may be confused by the number of options you are presented with. Over time, exposure to the suns ultraviolet rays can lead to vision problems such as cataracts and retinal damage. This safety coating reduces the annoying, and sometimes dangerous, reflections that water and roads can create on your lenses, making it especially handy for activities like driving, running, and biking. The sun is by far the biggest producer of blue light, but our digital devices and LED lighting emit blue light, too. Virtually all coatings today are designed to last the life of the prescription, says Vitale, which, on average, is about 28 to 30 months. Sat - Open Every Other Saturday 8:45 AM - 2:00 PM. Screen light is generally called blue light, and it is not the same as the suns UV rays. They are not filtered by clouds or windows. Plastic lenses need to have a UV coating applied. Eye disease diagnosis by an eye doctor can bring relief. Because children have weaker immune systems and more contact with people spreading germs, almost every person gets pink eye at some point in their childhood. The UV coating can come standard with the product, as is true of many sunglasses, or from brands with proprietary lens technology. In inexpensive sunglasses it can simply be a coating on the surface of the lens. Copyright 1996 - 2022 Frames For America, Inc. (A certified optician will respond within one business day. We know it, too. But experts say the most expensive option offered isnt necessarily of significantly higher quality. Contact lenses do not cover your entire eye, however, so wearing sunglasses with contact lenses is always best. If youve ever walked into a warm building from a chilly winter day, you know that the subsequent fogging of your glasses can make you feel like youre dropped a sheet over your eyes. We respect your privacy. We are located at the corner of Portage Rd. The theory is that this may ease both eyestrain and any sleep problems associated with using the devices too close to bedtime. But did you know the sun doesnt have to be shining for harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays to potentially damage your eyes and the skin around them? UV rays are invisible, and UV coating does not block out visible light. Nearly anything can scratch lenseseven using the incorrect cloth to clean them. The difference between prescription sunglasses and inexpensive over the counter sunglasses is how the UV protection is added. The advantages of having blue light filter lenses in your eyeglasses are: Photochromic are nearly clear when indoors and darken automatically when exposed to sunlight. We highly recommend this coating for all eyeglass lenses, especially for polycarbonate, high-index, aspheric, sunglass, and photochromic lenses (which all reflect more light than standard glass and plastic lenses). This option cannot be applied with other sunwear options. Eyefoods: The Complete Eye Health and Nutrition Guide. Add a little bit of mystique to your look with mirrored coating on your lenses. Help protect your glasses with our nine unique lens coatings. It will not change over time and will continue to offer the same level of UV protection. Prescription sunglasses offer clear vision, full UV protection and visible light protection in one pair of glasses. Darkening molecules are activated by the suns ultraviolet radiation and can dramatically reduce the brightness outdoors. Here are some of the best tips to protect your eyes, manage your contacts and get the most out of them. This type of coating cuts glare and permits more light through to your eyes. Ask about lens coatings when purchasing your next pair of glasses. Creates a permanent bond with the lens and provides extra protection to the lens surface. Our coatings help protect both your eyes and your lenses. You probably don't hear much about UVC because the earth's ozone layer absorbs it, making its threat minimal to nonexistent. Helping to protect the Macula and Retina from HEV (High Energy Visible) light which can guard against macular degeneration and retinal issues. It is often necessary for drivers with who have photochromic glasses to wear additional visible light protection glasses like sunglasses. The types of lenses you choose can make a big difference in the quality of your eyeglasses. Cosmetic and communication concerns aside, the reflection of light can also interfere with vision. Your lifestyle and habits should inform your coating decisions. Who might consider: Everyone, and its especially important for people who spend a lot of time outside in the sun. UV coating for sunglasses or eyeglasses may not be at the top of your priority list when you shop for new eyewear. The dark tint may allow your pupils to remain larger, exposing you to more harm from UV radiation. This invisible coating works like sunscreen for your eyes by deflecting harmful UV rays from the sun before they can damage your eyes, and it is included for no extra charge with our polycarbonate (1.59) lenses. FramesDirect offers thousands of sunglasses and eyeglasses from top designers and brands. For sports or only for reading or desk work? Also keep in mind that wraparound sunglasses are the best for fully protecting your eyes. According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, "polarization is unrelated to UV protection, so you still need to ensure UV absorption of the lenses.". It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Avoid the hard sell. UVC lens coatings protect against cataracts, retinal damage and other eye problems. UV protection on your glasses and sunglasses lenses may help prevent the damage UV radiation can do to your eyes. This coating is strongly recommended for all eyewear for children and teens, as well as those who participate in sports, outdoor activities, and travel. Free is always stylish, no? What youll pay: Its usually included, especially with sunglasses. Most of the AR coatings on the market today perform extremely well, Vitale says. What to know: Tinted lenses are often touted as curing color blindness, Brodie says. Blue light is a part of the visible light spectrum. If our 300 plus selection of sunglasses isn't enough for you, our color-tint coatings let you create your own, we have some good news. What Can Happen to My Eyesight After I Turn 40? But, according to Vitale, such problems were mostly resolved at the beginning of the 2000s. Put price in perspective. Many technologies are developing rapidly, making it challenging to understand how each affects our health. UVC lenses Invisible dye or coating that blocks ultraviolet light treatments for your lenses block those same rays from damaging your eyes. Each can be slowed or treated through regular eye exams. When it comes to choosing your glasses, it may feel like the options are endless. UV coating alone does not provide this color change. It prevents your eyeglasses from fogging up when you return indoors from the cold, as well as when perspiring. What to know: Everything on the market now except your most basic standard plastic CR-39 lens [which still made up about 36 percent of the prescription lenses sold in the U.S. in 2019, according to the Vision Council] is probably going to come with scratch-resistant coating already on it, Vitale says. Photochromic lenses are the type that darkens gradually when exposed to sunlight, and return to normal when you go back indoors. UV protection isnt just for sunglasses. Copyright 2020 Vision By Design Optometry All Rights Reserved | Sitemap | Privacy. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. And anybody who spends a lot of time outdoors should consider wearing wraparound UV glasses to cut down the amount of UV radiation that may enter the eyes from the periphery. Polycarbonate and high-index lenses are very soft.. The Advantages of Anti Reflective Lenses include: This type of lens is coated and is characterized as having a much harder surface that is more resistant to scratching. The friendly staff at Eye Wellness is on hand to help you make the best choice for your vision. There is also a third type, UVC, but these are generally blocked from us by the ozone layer. and Colborne St., in the same complex as the Shoppers Drug Mart and Stamford Centre Library. When shopping for the right style, make sure to consider the fit and temple coverage as well. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Block UVA, UVB and most Blue Light from entering the eyes, adding protection from these harmful rays. UVB rays also cause the effect of being snow blind, which is technically a corneal inflammation called photokeratitis. A reduction in the appearance of glare allowing others to see your eyes and facial expressions instead of reflections. You dont have to understand all of the science of light rays to know that it is important to protect your eyes from the sun. A blue light filtering applied to your glasses can shield your eyes from an excess of blue light and may even help you have a good nights sleep with ease. If you want to see them in action in actual eyeglass frames, just drop on by our Fort Lauderdale eye care center at 6201 N. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 or call our office at 954-491-7141. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. For kids, increased periods outdoors in the summer months are prime times for heightened UV exposure. Lens Hub When youre avoiding light, its time for [], Hydration is as essential for your body as for your eye health and thus requires a holistic approach. The Anti-reflective/Anti-glare Coating is applied as a microscopically thin layer that increases your visual comfort, enhances night vision, eliminates glare, and makes reading and screen viewing much more enjoyable. Fogged-up glasses arent only a byproduct of winter days, either. Otherwise, the average cost ranges from $26 to $86. Who might consider: People who just like the look, of course. In some cases, even light tints may increase contrast, which can be helpful to pilots and marksmen working in outside light, he says. Sunglasses should block at least 99 percent of the suns UVA and UVB rays, and screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light. This coating makes a nice addition to all lenses, but is specifically recommended for law enforcement and other first responders who require the clearest vision without unnecessary delay when entering structures.