Prescription Eyeglasses

No matter what your eye condition or how you choose to view the world, there are now prescription lenses that meet your unique lifestyle and vision correction needs. Eyeglass lenses that change as the light changes, from clear indoors to dark outdoors. Bifocal lenses that provide multiple fields of vision. High-index lenses that are thinner and lighter than ever before. And progressive lenses that eliminate the traditional lines of multifocal lenses. The point is, while eyeglass lenses are prescribed to correct all kinds of vision problems, prescription lenses have come a long way, offering you the opportunity to truly customize your eyeglasses and make a statement about how you choose to look at the world.

• Bifocal Lenses Bifocals are lenses with two distinct viewing areas to help correct vision that fails at two or even three distances.
• High-index and Aspheric Lenses are manufactured to be thinner at the edges of the lens and lighter in weight overall, a good choice for people with stronger prescriptions.
• Polycarbonate Lenses Polycarbonate lenses are up to 10 times more impact-resistant than regular plastic lenses.
• Caring for Lenses lens care and maintenance tips will go a long way toward maintaining your healthy sight.
• Eyeglass Frame Materials. Which frame material is right for you? Learn about the different types of metal and plastic, and the advantages of each.
• Frame Maintenance for Keeping Your Frames Properly Maintained

Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses are specially designed lenses that provide clear vision at two distinct distances, typically far and near, which becomes increasingly important as our eyes age. These lenses have two separate viewing zones divided by a visible line, allowing wearers to switch focus simply by adjusting the angle of their head. For example, someone who is farsighted and also struggles with reading may use bifocal glasses, with the upper section correcting distance vision and the lower section supporting near tasks. Although the line is noticeable, most users adapt quickly. Modern alternatives like progressive lenses offer similar multi-focal benefits without visible lines.

High Index and Aspheric Lenses

High index lenses are designed with a higher refractive index, allowing them to bend light more efficiently and deliver clear vision using less material. For wearers with strong prescriptions, whether for myopia or hyperopia, this means noticeably thinner, lighter and more visually appealing lenses. These lenses eliminate the old “soda bottle” look caused by thick edges, offering a slimmer profile in both plastic and glass options. Because high index lenses bend light more, an anti-reflective (AR) coating is often recommended to minimise glare and enhance clarity. For improved comfort, sharper vision and better cosmetic appeal, high index lenses are an excellent choice.

Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate lenses are a type of high-index lens best known for their exceptional impact resistance and built-in anti-scratch properties. If you or your children tend to drop, bump or scratch glasses often, polycarbonate is an ideal choice. Originally developed in the 1970s, this material is up to 10 times more impact-resistant than standard plastic lenses, making it a trusted option for active individuals.

Their durability also makes them a favourite for sports goggles, protective eyewear and safety glasses, even when no prescription is required. Along with superior toughness, polycarbonate lenses provide 100% UV protection, offering reliable outdoor safety. With a refractive index of 1.59, they are 20–25% thinner and about 30% lighter than regular plastic lenses, ensuring comfortable all-day wear.

A similar alternative is Trivex, introduced in 2001. Trivex lenses share many of the same advantages, lightweight feel, impact resistance, scratch resistance, while offering potentially better clarity and rigidity for certain prescriptions. Although slightly thicker than polycarbonate, Trivex can deliver enhanced optical performance depending on the wearer’s needs.

Caring for Lenses

Proper lens care is essential for keeping your prescription glasses performing at their best. While the golden rule is simple, if they’re not on your face, keep them in a case, most of us forget this from time to time. When that happens, adopting good daily habits can greatly extend the life of your lenses and preserve visual clarity.

To clean your lenses safely, gently wash them with warm, soapy water and use your fingers to remove dirt. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean, soft cloth or a microfiber lens cloth designed to trap dust. Avoid paper towels, tissues, household cleaners, acetone, or creams, as these can scratch or damage both lenses and frames.

When not wearing your glasses, always store them in a sturdy protective case to prevent scratches and deformation. If you must place them down temporarily, close the frames and set them frame-side down. Keep glasses off the floor, away from sinks, sprays, and cosmetics, which can harm lens coatings like anti-reflective (AR) treatments. And remember, glasses belong on your nose, not on your head, as this can misalign the frames and affect your vision.

Eyeglass Frame Materials

Eyeglass frames come in a wide variety of materials, each offering unique benefits in durability, comfort, flexibility, and style. Metal frames, such as titanium, beta titanium, memory metal, beryllium, stainless steel, monel, and aluminum, provide options ranging from lightweight and hypoallergenic to highly flexible, corrosion-resistant, and premium in appearance. Plastic frames, including zyl, propionate, nylon blends, and cellulose acetate, offer vibrant colors, lightweight comfort, and great flexibility, making them ideal for both fashion and sports use. Combination frames blend metal and plastic for a modern, versatile look. With so many materials and features, choosing multiple pairs can help you match your eyewear to your lifestyle, activities, and personal style.

Frame Maintenance

Proper frame maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring your eyeglasses provide the clear vision they were designed for. Since lenses must sit in a stable and precise position in front of your eyes, any misalignment in your frames can affect how well you see. This is why opticians take time to adjust frames to your face shape and size, so the correct part of the lens aligns perfectly with your line of sight.

Caring for your frames is simple but effective. Always use both hands when putting on or removing your glasses to avoid twisting the frame arms. Make it a habit to check for loose screws or signs of misalignment, if your glasses look uneven or feel uncomfortable, visit your eye care professional for a quick adjustment, these are usually complimentary and can make a significant difference. While small repair kits are available, major adjustments should never be done at home as frames can easily bend or break.

Regular cleaning is equally important. Wash your frames with mild soapy water and dry them with a soft cloth to prevent buildup of grime. And remember the golden rule of storage, never leave your glasses on your head, loose in a bag, or on a bathroom sink. A sturdy case protects your frames from stretching, twisting, or accidental damage, helping them last longer and perform better.