Types of eyeglass lenses - what's the difference and which are best?

Whether you are an active sports enthusiast, someone who spends hours in front of a computer, or simply looking for everyday prescription lenses for your glasses, the key is choosing the right lenses.

In this article, we will discuss the types of eyeglass lenses available, their differences, and which ones should be chosen depending on your lifestyle.

What are the types of eyeglass lenses?

Vision is our most important sense, which is why choosing the right eyeglass lenses should not be a matter of chance.

There are many types of prescription lenses for glasses available on the market, and each offers different benefits – so it is worth knowing what sets them apart and which best suit our needs.

1. Single Vision, Bifocal, and Trifocal Lenses

• Single vision lenses have only one corrective power and are excellent for both nearsighted and farsighted individuals.
• Bifocal lenses integrate two vision zones—near and far—allowing for clear vision at different distances. This is particularly useful for presbyopia.
• Trifocal lenses correct vision in three areas: distance, intermediate, and near. They are typically used when a person has a very high vision impairment or cataracts.

2. Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses are a modern solution for eyeglass lenses that allow for a seamless transition between different correction powers. The transition between power zones is invisible and smoother than, for example, in bifocal lenses. They allow you to see clearly at all distances without needing to switch glasses.

An additional advantage of progressive lenses is the elimination of the need for multiple pairs of glasses and their aesthetic appearance, as there are no visible divisions on the lens surface.

3. Computer Lenses

These specialized lenses, used when working at a computer, are designed to increase comfort during prolonged screen viewing. They feature a blue light filter to reduce its negative impact on our vision, lessen eye strain, and promote better sleep quality.

Such lenses are an excellent solution for those who spend many hours in front of a computer monitor, significantly enhancing the comfort of office work.

4. Sunglass Lenses

Sunglasses with permanent tinting effectively shield the eyes from harmful UV radiation and bright light. They come in various shades, such as brown, gray, or green.

This offers a varied degree of sun protection. For example, brown lenses enhance contrast and are great for variable weather. Gray lenses, on the other hand, maintain the natural colors of the surroundings.

What lens coatings can be chosen for eyeglass lenses?

Eyeglass lenses can be equipped with various coatings that enhance their functionality and user comfort.

1. Anti-reflective Coating

The anti-reflective coating plays a significant role in eyeglass lenses, especially for those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen. It reduces reflections, leading to increased visual comfort and better image quality in low light.

Thanks to it, eyes get tired less easily, and you can enjoy a clearer and more natural image both indoors and outdoors.

This type of coating is popular among computer users and drivers traveling after dark. In such situations, glare reduction is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort.

2. Blue Light and UV Filter Coating

Coatings that protect against blue light and UV radiation play a vital role in safeguarding our eyes. Protection against blue light reduces the negative effects of emissions from electronic screens, helping to reduce eye strain from prolonged computer use.

This solution is particularly recommended for individuals who spend a lot of time in front of a smartphone screen.

3. Photochromic Coating

Photochromic coating is an excellent solution for spectacle wearers, combining corrective and sun protection functions. Thanks to this technology, lenses automatically adjust their color to the lighting conditions:

Indoors, they remain transparent, ensuring comfortable vision.

Outdoors, they darken under UV radiation, protecting the eyes from glare and harmful ultraviolet rays.

This practical solution eliminates the need for two pairs of glasses and is ideal for active individuals who frequently move between indoors and outdoors.

4. Polarization

Polarization is an advanced technology used in eyeglass lenses that effectively reduces reflections. This makes them indispensable for drivers and water sports enthusiasts.

By eliminating light reflections from flat surfaces like water or asphalt, it improves visual acuity and increases wearing comfort.

Polarized lenses provide better contrast, making colors more intense, and the image clearer and rich in detail.

Additionally, wearing them reduces eye strain, which is always a huge advantage.

Polarization can be chosen for both prescription and sunglass lenses.

5. Easy-to-Clean, Hydrophobic, and Oleophobic Coating

Modern technologies like easy-to-clean, hydrophobic, and oleophobic coatings are innovative solutions in eyeglass lens manufacturing. They facilitate their maintenance.

• Easy-to-clean coating reduces the accumulation of dust and dirt, meaning less frequent lens cleaning is required.
• Hydrophobic coating repels water, so raindrops or sweat do not leave marks on the lens surface.
• Oleophobic coating, on the other hand, prevents the adhesion of grease and fingerprints, which is incredibly practical for everyday use.

Thanks to these technologies, glasses maintain their clarity and transparency for longer. This, in turn, provides greater wearing comfort in both variable weather conditions and during various physical activities.

Can different coatings be combined?

Combining various coatings on eyeglass lenses is not only possible but also extremely beneficial.

• Combining anti-reflective coating with a blue light filter significantly improves comfort when working at the computer.
• Applying polarization to a photochromic coating effectively protects against glare in changing lighting conditions.

Thanks to such solutions, glasses become more versatile, offering better protection and comfort every day.

What materials are used in the production of eyeglass lenses?

Eyeglass lenses are made from various materials that determine their optical properties, wearing comfort, and durability.

1. Glass Lenses

Glass lenses are distinguished by their exceptional scratch resistance and provide excellent clarity. As a result, they are an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize durability and high-quality vision.

2. CR-39 Plastic and Polycarbonate Lenses

CR-39 plastic and polycarbonate lenses are among the most frequently chosen materials in the production of eyeglass lenses.

They are made from epoxy resin, are lightweight, and surpass traditional glass in terms of durability.

Polycarbonate lenses, in particular, stand out for their exceptional durability. Their resistance to strong impacts makes them ideal for children and active individuals.

Furthermore, polycarbonate is one of the lightest materials, which significantly increases wearing comfort.

Check out our comparison of plastic and glass eyeglass lenses!

3. Trivex Lenses

Trivex lenses combine exceptional lightness with outstanding durability, making them an excellent choice for active individuals. They are characterized by better optical quality and lower weight compared to other materials.

Thanks to these features, they are comfortable even with prolonged wear, and also provide excellent visual clarity. Additionally, their impact resistance makes them not only durable but also safe to use.

How do spherical and aspheric eyeglass lenses differ?
Spherical and aspheric lenses differ primarily in their construction, which affects both their optical properties and the appearance of the glasses themselves.

Spherical lenses have a constant radius of curvature across their entire surface, giving them a symmetrical shape. However, they can cause greater image distortion when looking to the side.

Aspheric lenses, on the other hand, have a variable curvature, making them thinner and lighter. This design minimizes distortion and improves peripheral vision quality. People who value a modern look and wearing comfort often choose aspheric lenses.

What is the refractive index of eyeglass lenses and how does it affect the thickness and weight of lenses?

The refractive index of eyeglass lenses, also known as the index of light refraction, plays a key role in determining the thickness and weight of lenses. Lenses with a higher index are thinner and lighter than those with a lower index, for the same correction power.

This makes wearing them more comfortable, which is particularly important for individuals with high vision impairments. Additionally, in such glasses, the eyes look natural and do not appear "enlarged," as is often the case with thick lenses.

Is it worth investing in premium corrective lenses?

Investing in premium corrective lenses is a worthwhile decision for many reasons. First and foremost, they provide better vision quality thanks to modern technologies and top-class materials.

Studies confirm that improved visual acuity significantly increases everyday life comfort.

Premium lenses guarantee greater wearing comfort due to the lightness and durability of the materials used. Furthermore, special refining coatings enhance their functionality (such as protection against blue light or UV radiation).

By choosing premium corrective lenses, we not only invest in the health of our eyes but also enhance our overall comfort and quality of life.