Shopping online for glasses is a great way to get the widest possible selection of premier frames, and quality lenses. After all, only about 8% of people who bought frames online reported having a less than ideal experience, defined as “neutral” or worse, according to the 2012 Vision Council Internet Influence Report. The only difficulty that you might find with shopping online is knowing which lenses will suit you best. Do you need transition lenses, anti-reflective, or computer-specific lens tints and coatings? Before you shop, learn more about your different options for lenses so that you can make an educated decision.
Transition Lenses
It used to be that if you wanted sunglasses, but you had a prescription, then you would need two pairs of glasses, one for indoors, and one for outdoors on bright and sunny days. Transition lenses solve that problem, by adjusting automatically and darkening in bright sunlight. If you don’t want to have to switch between two pairs of glasses, then these lenses are very convenient.
Computer Lenses
Computer glasses have special lens tints and coatings which would be appreciated by anyone that works in front of a computer for long periods of time. The computer screen gives off high intensity blue light and glare, which is why computer glasses often have that yellow tint, to filter out the harsh light and protect your eyes. These lenses are usually available only with Gunnar glasses, so if protecting your eyes from strain and fatigue due to high computer use is a priority, you might want to start with Gunnar frames in order to benefit from their lenses.
Anti-Reflective
Wearing glasses in the presence of a number of exposed light sources can prove difficult for the wearer. With glare and reflections, it can feel like there are doubled images of exposed lights whenever you move your head. While driving at night this is particularly distracting. Taking a good picture is also difficult, as it is very likely that the flash from the camera, or a light in close proximity will make it impossible for your eyes to be seen through your glasses. Fortunately, anti-reflective coatings on lenses address all of these problems. They make it easier for people to see your eyes, and easier for you to see the world around you without doubled-lights everywhere you turn.
Whether you need prescription glasses or non prescription glasses, remember that your lens options are as important as the choice that you make in frames. Whether your eyes need protection from the sun, your computer, or just the everyday exposure to bright lights, there are lens coatings and tinting features that will make your eye wear a perfect fit for your lifestyle.