The theory is that this may ease both eyestrain and any sleep problems associated with using the devices too close to bedtime. Lenses tinted yellow are sometimes marketed as “blue blockers” for their supposed ability to reduce exposure to the light emitted by electronics such as smartphones. In some cases, even light tints may increase contrast, which can be helpful to pilots and marksmen working in outside light, he says. “Tinted lenses may reduce discomfort in bright light,” Brodie says. But tints may also help improve contrast for those with degenerative retinal disorders or light sensitivity. Who might consider: People who just like the look, of course. Hues range from light tints like a pastel blue or pink to deeper shades used for sunglasses. Here, dyes are applied to lenses to cut down on the visible light (but not necessarily UV rays) entering the eye. “Most of the AR coatings on the market today perform extremely well,” Vitale says. In the past, AR coatings also tended to attract dust and grime, but they now generally include an anti-static treatment that helps repel water and oil and keeps the coating cleaner. But, according to Vitale, such problems were mostly resolved at the beginning of the 2000s. What to know: AR may get a bad rap from consumers who remember it being prone to degrading and developing cracks called “crazing” or “spiderwebbing” in its earlier days. Otherwise, the average cost ranges from $26 to $86. What you’ll pay: It’s sometimes included with the eyeglass purchase. It’s strongly recommended with polycarbonate or high-index lenses, which reflect more light than basic plastic CR-39 or glass lenses. Who might consider: Most people, but AR coating may be especially useful for those who often drive at night (it can reduce reflections from headlights at night) and read on computers. (The term “anti-glare” is a misnomer, however, says Brodie, and glare-think oncoming headlights-is better addressed with polarized lenses than with AR.) This means you’re getting the maximum light from the environment you’re in, but without any visual interference that can occur from that light bouncing off your lenses. Brodie, MD, PhD, professor of ophthalmology at NYU Langone Health in New York City. Typically applied on both sides of an eyeglass lens, this coating, also known as AR or anti-glare, “reduces the amount of light reflected off the surfaces of spectacle lenses, and may enhance the contrast of certain scenes,” says Scott E. No matter what your warranty says, if a coating starts to degrade within a year, Vitale recommends taking the glasses back to see whether you can get the problem fixed or the glasses replaced. ![]() What can you expect? “Virtually all coatings today are designed to last the life of the prescription,” says Vitale, which, on average, is about 28 to 30 months. Or warranties may vary in terms of which ones are covered and for how long. Many glasses will be backed up by some kind of warranty, but it might not cover coatings. If you feel pressured, Vitale says, “you may want to look elsewhere.” Even if you’re buying the glasses from your ophthalmologist, “by the time you get to the eyeglass purchase point in the eye exam cycle, you’re in a retail environment and may be working with the staff, rather than the doctor,” Vitale says.īe even more cautious about anything that feels high-pressure if you’re in an eyeglass store, he says. Be sure you don’t pay extra for a coating that’s already supposed to be part of your package.Īvoid the hard sell. In many cases, eyeglass lenses come bundled with certain coatings, commonly those that reduce reflections or bolster scratch resistance. “I know some ‘house brands’ out there that are pretty similar to the premium versions,” says master optician Michael Vitale, vice president of membership and technical affairs at The Vision Council.Īsk for an itemized description. But experts say the most expensive option offered isn’t necessarily of significantly higher quality. ![]() Some types of coating, like those that are anti-reflective (sometimes called glare-reducing), come in a range of prices. Indoors and outdoors? For sports or only for reading or desk work? Driving day and night? Your lifestyle and habits should inform your coating decisions.
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