Glasses have massively improved since the early days. Gone are the wireframes and ultra-thick lenses. These days they provide fashion as well as function. Having said that, do people need to spend large amounts of money on their glasses, particularly when there are many ways to cut corners? Ultra-cheap prescription glasses can be bought in many grocery stores, so why not buy these and save money?
The reality is that we get what we pay for, and the health of our eyes is far more important than cost-cutting. Let’s take a look together at the key things to consider when buying new glasses.
Research Online
If someone needs simple prescription glasses, they may find an economical product available on the internet. Anyone who has more complicated requirements such as for bifocals or varifocals should probably consult their local optician, however. The same thing goes for anyone needing strong glasses, as a local professional will be best placed to measure your requirements accurately.
In more recent times, people have become aware of the adverse effects of blue light exposure. This comes through the use of digital screens such as those found on computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. According to the specialists at Blockbluelight.co.uk people are increasingly searching online for glasses containing blue light filters. They may be for day or night use, and even for children. People are hungry to read blogs on such subjects as how our sleep or eyes can become affected by this HEV (High Energy Visible) light.
Consult Opticians
The value of having an annual eye test with an optician is that they can look to see whether you need a new prescription. They can also make checks for such conditions as glaucoma, particularly if this runs in the family.
Opticians are also best-placed to help people with complex glasses such as bifocals. This is where two different lenses exist within the frames – one for short distances and another for long. The same applies to trifocal lenses or progressive lenses where each side of the frame will contain a single lens with a built-in gradient. The top will be for long distances, seamlessly right down to the bottom for close-up work such as reading.
Think About Lenses
A trained optician will be recommending high-tech plastic lenses. It may be that your vision and lifestyle will dictate the most suitable type. Someone who needs their glasses for sports may well end up with polycarbonate lenses due to their robust nature.
In the past, strong-magnification lenses used to be thick, like the bottom of a milk bottle. These days high-index plastic can cater to a person’s needs without the lens needing to be as thick.
Polarised sunglasses are another purchase to consider. They will be prescription-made and can help reduce glare when a person is driving a car or playing sports.
Do You Need Extra Coatings?
Once the lens has been chosen there may be a raft of additional options to consider purchasing. How about anti-reflective glasses to reduce glare from the sun, or that annoying halo around lights? Tinted lenses may help you see things better, or a mirror coating will ensure no one can see your eyes!
Some coatings come as standard, such as scratch resistance or UV (ultraviolet light) protection. Grocery store glasses will not possess these features any more than they will have quality lenses.
Think About The Frames
In some cases, a distinctive pair of glasses can create a person’s look. They may be a bold statement or a talking point. In other scenarios an individual may want their glasses to be virtually invisible, choosing clear or very thin frames. Whilst a sales assistant may be able to comment on what suits you, it may be advisable to bring someone who knows you well to the shop.
Thin, cheap frames may be flimsy. Consider how easy it is to sit on them and get them out of shape! Don’t just go for brands – go for looks and sturdiness.
What color frame are you considering? Will it match your eyes or hair color? What about your skin tone? Peoples’ faces come in different shapes as well. They may be round or square, diamond-shaped or oval. All these things need to be taken on board before a pair of frames are selected.
Once a good pair of glasses have been purchased, they should serve you for a long time. They may help you see well, look good, and keep out such things as UV or blue light. If you’re going to save money on something, don’t do it with this; your eyes are important!
