Do you need to buy glasses for vision correction but aren't sure which one to buy? Don't worry because we've got your back! Buying eyeglasses for yourself isn't just limited to choosing the right frame and color to suit your face.

The material of the eye lenses plays a crucial role in deciding the best eyewear for you.  

Certain eye lens materials provide better comfort and visibility when compared to the rest. Choosing the right lens material for your eyes may seem like a daunting task. But rest assured, this article will be the ultimate guide to help you to pick the best eyewear for yourself!
Read on!

 



What are the Different Kinds of Lens Materials Available Today? 

Due to the technological advancement in the eye care sector, there are five types of lens materials you can choose from to get the perfect eyewear! Each of these lens materials can be used for varying degrees of vision correction for refractive errors such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, presbyopia, and farsightedness.  
Most of these materials are divided into categories based on the index of refraction. Seems like a lot to take in, right? Let's try to get things straight for you. The index of refraction is just how fast light can pass through a particular lens material. A lens made out of a material with a high refractive index material will be thin, and one made with a low refractive index material will be thick. 

Now without further ado, let's take a look at the 5 different lens materials available in the market today: 

 

 Glass Lenses

Polycarbonate

Glass lenses are the bestselling lens materials because of two main reasons - they provide better visual clarity and are scratch-resistant. That said, these lenses are comparatively thicker than other lens varieties and have a considerably lower impact resistance.

This is why they can't fit in every eye frame you choose, and you might have to get them specifically treated to meet the impact resistance standards.

Compared to standard plastic and glass lenses, polycarbonate lenses are considered a superior variety. This is due to their higher refractive index, better impact resistance, and excellent UV protection. However, these lenses are more prone to scratches, so most of them are made with an extra anti-scratch coating.  

Polycarbonate lenses prove to be excellent lens materials for people with an active lifestyle and for kids who need extra protection in their eyewear. That said, if you have a high-power prescription, then these lenses can cause image distortion because they can't focus light on a single point.

 Plastic

Trivex

Plastic lens material (aka CR-39) is a standard lens material and is considered a budget-friendly option for most. It offers 80% UV protection and has excellent visual clarity. However, they are lighter in weight and can shatter pretty easily. Furthermore, these lenses have a lower index of refraction and are
therefore thicker. 

If you're on the hunt for the best eye lens material for your child, then Trivex should top your list! This lens material has a higher impact resistance than the other lens materials, which is why it is an excellent choice for kids' eyewear. 

Due to their high abbe value, these lenses offer the best visual clarity, are lightweight, and have extremely low image distortion properties. And just like plastic lenses, this lens material has a high refractive index.

 High Index

High index lenses must be your material of choice if you have a higher power prescription. This lens material is ultra-thin and is the lightest lens material. Because this lens is ultra-thin, it is aesthetically pleasing and offers excellent optics. 

  



Which Lens Material Should You Choose? 

The best lens material for you is the one that fits your visual requirements. To get an idea of the vision correction you need, you must get an eye test done with the help of a professional optician. Once you've consulted your eye doctor and have your prescription in your hands, you must think of what properties you desire from the perfect eyewear. Then, make a list of priorities comprising points such as aesthetics, comfort, safety, optical clarity, and your budget. 
In terms of budget, plastic lenses are considered the most affordable ones, and they are the best choice for lower prescription glasses. Trivex and polycarbonate lenses have pretty much the same properties, but Trivex lenses offer better visual correction. But if aesthetics are a priority for you, you must opt for polycarbonate lenses. And last but not least, if you have the money to spare, opt for high index lenses for the best visual clarity, aesthetics, and safety. 

The Bottom Line 

Whether you prefer a thin and sleek look or a glass-bottle effect look, there's something for everyone at Vitenzi. If you wear glasses every day, then thinner lenses offer you the best in terms of comfort and vision correction. 
When choosing the best lens material, you must also consider lens coating. Materials like polycarbonate and high index lenses need an anti-scratch coating. Furthermore, getting an anti-reflective coating on whatever lens material you choose to prevent too much light reflection is also recommended. You can also opt for a polychromatic coating for a 2-in-one look. 
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with excellent optics and standard thickness, then plastic lens material can be a perfect option. And if you're ready to splurge based on your comfort and better aesthetics, then opting for polycarbonate or high index lenses will be the best decision you ever make for your eyes! 
Our lenses are made from the best quality materials to provide your eyes with comfort. So just sit back and scroll through our website to find the best lens materials your eyes deserve!