Prescription Glasses: Material Options for Eyeglass Lenses

There are numerous factors that you must consider when purchasing prescription glasses for your eye problems. One of these crucial aspects is the type of material used to fabricate the lenses. This will determine the long-term durability and performance of the eyewear. Also, your choice will determine the cost of purchase. Therefore, you should evaluate and compare the different options provided by your potential supplier. Here is a short description of the ideal eyeglass lens materials to help you get started on the selection process.

Glass

When vision correction using eyewear was first invented, the spectacles provided to individuals with eye conditions were fabricated from glass. This is a favourable choice because of the exceptional optical properties presented by the material. In simple terms, basic glass has high clarity and transparency, so it provides a perfect template that can be modified in diverse ways. Unfortunately, glass spectacles are heavy and fragile, so they are prone to breakage. This can lead to high long-term costs because you will need to perform frequent lens replacement. In addition, if the eyeglasses break while still on your face, your eyes could be severely injured.

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is formed by combining basic plastics with special carbonate elements. This mixture creates a material that is tough and capable of resisting damage due to impact. These types of lenses are ideal because they will provide prolonged service without breakage. The material is also lightweight, so it is not associated with facial strain after consistent eyeglasses use. Additionally, the eyewear has natural UV protection, which is an advantageous property in eye protection. Basically, you should choose polycarbonate lenses if you need to wear the spectacles constantly, particularly in areas where they might sustain scratches or accidental impact.

Plastic Lenses

There are numerous types of plastics in the modern market, and some of these polymers can be used in the fabrication of eyeglasses. The pertinent spectacle materials are marketed under diverse brand names, so you will need to inquire about the options available from your optometry dispenser. Generally, plastic lenses are suitable for prescription glasses because they are light and have reliable optical characteristics. Furthermore, the material is cheaper than alternatives, so you can select this option if you have limited financial resources. On the other hand, the quality of plastic lenses can vary widely, depending on the type of polymer and quality of fabrication. Therefore, you should be thorough in your research before selecting a plastic material for your new prescription glasses.

Share