8 Main Types of Glasses Lenses: Everything You Need to Know

Glasses lenses are materials mounted in frames to give clear vision and protection to the eyes. They may be made of glass or plastic, and come in prescription or non-prescription forms. Most types of lenses for glasses are used for the correction of refractive errors, like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia, and astigmatism.

There are eight main types of lenses for glasses; each of them is for specific purposes, as briefly explained below:

1. Multifocal lenses. These lenses combine three prescriptions in one: near, intermediate, and distance. They make it possible to transition smoothly across these zones of vision and, therefore, would be perfect for someone who needs assistance with seeing at all distances.
2. Photochromic lenses. Photochromic lenses darken when exposed to the sun's rays, which makes them ideal for someone who wants his glasses to act as sunglasses, too.
3. Tinted lenses. Mostly used in sunglasses, tinted lenses reduce UV exposure. Fashion-tinted lenses are also available in a range of colors, but may not provide UV protection.
4. High-index lenses. These lenses are thinner and lighter and ideal for individuals with strong prescriptions. They are comfortable to wear without the weight of the regular lenses.
5. Single vision lenses: They correct one type of vision problem and have the same prescription throughout the lens. They are commonly used for either distance or near vision and are a popular type of lens for glasses at an affordable price.
6. Digital (blue light filter) lenses: These reduce exposure to damaging blue light from digital screens and should be excellent for people who spend extensive time in front of digital devices.
7. Polarized lenses. Polarized lenses reduce glare, mainly from reflective surfaces such as water or roads. They are commonly used in sunglasses for outdoor activities and can be found for sale at competitive prices.
8. Prism lenses. These lenses correct the refraction issues of light, ensuring that light enters the eye properly. They are usually prescribed for conditions such as double vision.

Multifocal Lenses

Multifocal lenses, also called progressive lenses, are designed to give clear vision at three points: near, intermediate, and far. They have a seamless transition between the three zones, creating an uninterrupted area of vision. Multifocal lenses are available in standard, premium, and elite types; each possesses different levels of clarity and comfort.

• Standard multifocal lenses. These give clear vision at all three distances, but may have noticeable soft-focus areas at the lens edges.
• Premium multifocal lenses. As these lenses have a larger field of clear vision, they reduce areas of soft focus, thus are a more comfortable option for most users.
• Elite multifocal lenses. Top of the line, these lenses have fewer soft-focus areas and are the easiest to get used to for maximum visual comfort.

Multifocal lenses are a good option for people who want the convenience of clear, comfortable vision at all distances without the hassle of switching between different pairs of glasses.

Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses, commonly known as transition or adaptive lenses, are prescription lenses that become darker in response to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. They change in changing light conditions because of their special coating of chemicals — on cloudy days, on rainy days, or whenever UV rays prevail. In other words, they pack optical glasses and sunglasses into one convenient pair and are ideal for anyone who needs both vision correction and protection from the sun.

These lenses not only offer clear and comfortable vision, but also have UV 400 protection, which will protect your eyes from damaging rays. Options such as Transitions® lenses, available in 1.6 and 1.67 indexes, offer top-quality performance. The new Transitions® Gen8™ lenses are robust, long-lasting, and come in the colors of stylish brown or true gray, combining functionality with style.

Tinted Lenses

Tinted lenses are mostly used in sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays. These come in many colors, some serve a purpose and some are just for fashion. Fashion-tinted lenses don’t offer UV protection but add to your eyewear collection.

Some blue light glasses have amber tinted lenses, which offer extra blue light protection. These are great for gaming or long computer use to reduce eye strain.

High Index Lenses

High-index lenses are lighter and thinner than standard lenses, perfect for high prescriptions. At Classy Eyewear, we have high-index lenses in 3 options:

• 1.6 Index: Up to +/- 3 diopters.
• 1.67 Index: Up to +/- 4 diopters.
• 1.74 Index: The thinnest option for over +/- 4 diopters.

These lenses give you clearer and sharper vision because the light has less material to pass through. They also reduce the magnification or minification effect so you look more natural. High-index lenses are available for multifocal, bifocal and single vision prescriptions, they are functional and stylish.

Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses have one prescription throughout the entire lens, to correct one vision issue, near or distance vision. Optometrists prescribe these lenses to correct refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism by ensuring the light is focused on the retina.

For those who need help with close up tasks like reading or knitting, single vision lenses for near vision — also known as reading glasses — are the solution. Depending on the refractive error, the lenses are either convex or concave.

Digital (Blue Light Filter) Lenses

Digital lenses (also known as blue light filter lenses) are designed to protect your eyes from artificial blue light from digital screens. They have a special coating that absorbs or reflects blue light so less enters your eyes.

Perfect for anyone who spends hours on a computer, gaming or studying, these lenses can help relieve common screen time side effects like dry eyes, eye strain, headaches and blurry vision. By reducing blue light exposure, they provide a more comfortable viewing experience and help keep your eyes healthy.

Polarized Lenses

Polarized lenses are designed to reduce glare, so are perfect for activities like driving or fishing in bright, high glare environments. Polarization works by filtering out horizontal light, which helps reduce eye strain and improve visual clarity.

While the main purpose of polarized lenses is to cut glare, many also offer UV protection. However, not all polarized lenses have UV protection, so make sure to check if your lenses have UV protection.

Prism Lenses

Prism lenses are special glasses lenses that refract light correctly so it goes into the eyes properly. These are prescribed for double vision (diplopia) and other binocular vision problems.

By aligning the light that goes into both eyes, prism lenses eliminate the mismatched refraction that causes double vision. They work by redirecting light to the retina, so the brain can combine the images from each eye into one clear picture.

How to Choose the Right Lenses

Choosing the right type of lens for glasses is easy when you follow these simple steps. Trust your optometrist and the retail staff. After an eye test, your optometrist will give your prescription to the staff, who can then recommend the best lenses for you and explain the options in detail.

Your lifestyle also comes into play. If you spend hours in front of a computer or looking at digital screens, a blue light filter in your lenses is a good option. If you need both vision correction and sun protection, photochromic lenses are a two in one solution.

It’s important to understand the options. Do your own research or ask the staff any questions — they’re there to help you make an informed decision. By considering professional advice, lifestyle, and options, you can choose lenses that suit your vision and daily life.

Finding the Right Lenses for Your Glasses

Lenses for glasses vary from person to person, as they depend on your prescription and lifestyle. After an eye test, your optometrist or optical dispenser will recommend the best lenses for you.

For example, if you have near and distance vision problems, multifocal lenses may be the way to go. If you have a high prescription, high index lenses will make your glasses light and comfortable while still giving you clear vision. The best lenses are the ones that are tailored to your individual vision and daily life.

Why Should I Clean My Glass Lenses?

Cleaning your glasses lenses is important for clear vision and to prevent the spread of germs that could cause eye infections. Cleaning is easy and should be part of your daily routine to keep your glasses spotless and working.

To clean your glasses, start by blowing on the lenses to remove any dust or debris that could scratch the surface. Next, spray an official lens cleaner on both sides of the lenses. Using a microfiber cloth, gently wipe the lenses in a circular motion until they are clean and streak free. Follow these steps and your glasses will be in top condition and your vision will be crystal clear.

How Often Should I Clean My Glass Lenses?

Clean your lenses daily or whenever they get dirty. Cleaning regularly not only keeps your vision clear and comfortable, but also protects your eyes from infections.

Using the right tools is just as important as cleaning. To avoid damaging your lenses, always use an official lens cleaner or spray and a microfiber cloth. Proper care and your glasses will be in top condition and clear.