Photochromic Lenses

Optical Lenses for Eyeglasses: Materials, Coatings, and Types

In the modern world, eyeglass lenses play a key role not only as a corrective tool but also as a fashion accessory. At Iris Optic, both in-store and online in this shop, we can offer a variety of materials and technologies that make the production of high-quality optical lenses possible. We know that the variety of optical lens models combined with unfamiliar terms can lead to confusion. Therefore, here we will try to clarify the most important things regarding optical lenses (prescription lenses) so that you can feel confident in making an informed decision for your eyes.

Materials

Polymer optical lenses dominate today due to numerous advantages. They are:

• Index 1.50: Standard, non-thinned lenses are only suitable for full-rim frames. They are brittle, and it is advisable to avoid using them for semi-rimless (cord) or rimless frames. Otherwise, their integrity could be easily compromised.

• Index 1.60: (1.59, 1.61) Lightweight, up to 20% thinner than standard lenses. The most popular type of lens material, it has many advantages over the standard. This material can be used without issue for any frame. It is impact-resistant, has increased strength, and UV protection. These are thinned lenses, suitable for any prescription.

• Index 1.67: Also lightweight, up to ~30% thinner than standard lenses. Its advantages are similar to those of Index 1.60.

• Index 1.74: Also lightweight, up to 40% thinner than standard lenses. The mechanical qualities are similar to the previous two types, but if optical quality is paramount, then 1.60 and 1.67 are a better choice.

Coatings

The Anti-Reflective coating is undoubtedly the most popular type. These can vary in quality. Some of them are significantly easier to clean, harder to smudge, and their resistance to wear is increased compared to standard coatings. We conditionally call this type of coating 'premium,' and you can find some of the most popular ones in the premium anti-reflective lenses category. For your convenience, we have created a rating of the coatings we work with to provide additional clarity on the differences between them. You can find this rating both through the filter in the lenses category and on the page of every optical lens model.

Blue filter or blue light filter: In many models of anti-reflective lenses, this is offered as an additional layer or as an integrated material. Lenses with such a filter are those you use when working with various screens (phone, tablet, computer, etc.). You can order them with or without a prescription.

Tints

• Sun Protection Lenses: For cases where you want permanently darkened lenses with or without a prescription. With these, you can choose the color, type of tint (classic, gradient), add an anti-reflective coating, or order them as thinned lenses. We also offer polarizing ones, as well as those with a mirror coating.

• Darkening Lenses: Also known as photochromic, photo-sensitive, or phototropic optical lenses. They darken outdoors, lighten back up indoors or in the evening when they are not activated. They differ in reaction speed. There are also thinned models available. Polarizing photochromic lenses have recently been introduced: an exceptional advantage for drivers, as well as those participating in sports or spending more time outdoors.

Multifocal Lenses

These are optical lenses that we can use simultaneously for two distances: for example, near and intermediate distance (office lenses) or near, intermediate, and far distance (progressive lenses). These are optical lenses that are manufactured individually, and all options are possible with them.

Brands

You can find most popular brands: Essilor, Hoya, Zeiss, Leica, Nikon, Rodenstock, and more.

Do you need assistance in choosing your new eyeglass lenses in the Blink online store? Contact us.