Eyeglasses are more than just a visual aid; they’re an integral part of your daily life. Whether you need them for reading, driving, or just getting around, glasses can help.
When you visit your eye doctor for an eye examination, they can help you choose the right pair of lenses and the perfect frames. There are many options of lens coatings to choose from. How do you know which ones to choose?
Coatings can enhance your overall visual experience by providing additional benefits beyond correcting your vision. From UV protection to anti-reflection, scratch resistance, and mirror, there are several types of glasses lens coatings available to suit your specific needs.
What Are Lens Coatings?
Lens coatings are lens enhancements. They include specialized treatments applied to eyeglass lenses to enhance their performance and durability.
Lens coatings serve various purposes, from safeguarding your eyes against harmful UV rays to minimizing reflections and reducing scratches. In essence, lens coatings are like armour for your eyeglasses, improving the functionality and style for a clearer, more comfortable, and longer-lasting visual experience.
Types of Eyeglass Coatings
The optical staff at your eye doctor’s practice can help you choose the type of lens based on factors such as your lifestyle, budget, and eyewear needs. Understanding the types of lens coatings and their function can help you make the best-informed decision.
UV Protection Lens Coating
Ultraviolet (UV) protection coatings act as a shield, blocking your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can contribute to various eye conditions, including cataracts and macular degeneration. UV protection lens coatings are transparent and do not alter the appearance of your lenses. They work by blocking UV rays, improving the safety of your eyes even on the sunniest days.
If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in bright sunlight, UV protection is a must-have. While many glasses provide some UV protection, adding a coating can provide 100% protection.
Scratch Resistant Lens Coating
Nothing is more frustrating than getting scratches on your glasses. You may get them from accidental drops, encounters with keys in your pocket, or everyday wear and tear; eyeglass scratches are almost inevitable.
Scratch-resistant coatings, applied to the front and back of the lens, create a durable barrier to help protect against minor scratches and abrasions. They provide an additional layer of protection against wear and tear and preserve the clarity of your lenses and vision.
It’s important to note that no coating can eliminate scratches, but they can reduce the likelihood of them occurring.
Life can be rough on your glasses. If you have kids, are physically active, or want to extend the lifespan of your glasses, scratch-resistant coatings are worth it.
Anti-Reflective Lens Coating
Anti-reflective coatings minimize reflections and glare, improve visual clarity, and reduce eye strain. If you ever find yourself squinting due to glare from headlights, computer screens, or overhead lights, anti-reflective coatings can help.
Anti-reflection coatings, also called AR coating or anti-glare coating, help reduce glare by minimizing the amount of light that reflects off the lenses. When light reflects off the lenses, it can cause distraction, making it difficult to see in bright lighting conditions.
With an anti-reflection coating, you can have less glare and more clarity, especially when driving at night or working in front of a computer screen. Additionally, AR coatings make your lenses nearly invisible, providing a clear view of your eyes without distracting reflections.
Mirror Lens Coating
A mirror coating is a popular option for people who want to add some style to their glasses, and it is common on stylish sunglasses. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, mirror coatings serve a functional purpose—providing additional protection against intense sunlight. By reflecting a portion of the light that hits the lenses, mirror coatings reduce glare and brightness.
Mirror coatings come in various colours, such as silver, gold, or blue, to create a mirrored finish on the front surface of your lenses. To protect the mirror lens coating, use the appropriate cleaning solution and avoid rubbing the surface too hard.
Get Our Advice on Lens Coatings in Maple Ridge
By understanding the benefits of lens coatings, you can make an informed decision that meets your vision needs and aligns with your lifestyle and personal style. Whether you prioritize UV protection for eye health, scratch resistance for durability, anti-reflection for improved clarity, or mirror coatings for a touch of fashion, there’s a lens coating option to suit every need.
Book an appointment with Maple Ridge Eye Care to talk to our eye care professionals about which coatings work for you so you can enjoy crystal-clear vision and a stylish look that reflects your personality.
