When picking new eyeglasses, most people think about the frame design and lens type. The type of lens you choose can determine the quality of your eyeglasses, but don’t forget about the lens coating. Eyeglass lens coatings can help improve eye comfort and enhance lens performance. They can also improve the appearance of your eyeglasses. 

Antireflective Coatings 

Antireflective (AR) coating, also known as anti-glare coating, is usually applied on both sides of the lens. The thin coating eliminates glare and reflection from the surfaces of the lens. It also reduces halos around lighting and creates a better cosmetic appearance by making the lenses almost invisible. 
 

AR coating enhances light transmission through the lens, improving night driving. It helps photochromic lenses reduce sunlight glare. The coating is ideal for all eyeglasses, especially high-index, polycarbonate, and aspheric lenses.  

Scratch-resistant Coatings 

Your eyeglasses can get scratches if you use an abrasive material or drop them. Scratches on the lens can make eyeglasses hard to use. The scratch-resistant coating protects eyeglass lenses from scratching. 
 

Many eyeglass lenses today, including high-index and polycarbonate, are made with scratch-resistant coatings. The lenses are treated on both sides with a clear coating, creating a hard surface. Children's lenses benefit from the hard, scratch-resistant coating that gives them more durability. 

UV-protective Coating
 

Exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation can damage the eyes over time. It can lead to age-related eye issues such as macular degeneration, retinal damage, and cataracts. Eyeglass lenses often have built-in UV protection, but it is not adequate in some cases. 
 

High-index plastic lenses usually have UV protection. The UV-protective coating can be applied to your lenses to block 100 percent UVA and UVB. The coating can help protect the eyes and is essential for people who spend more time outdoors. 

Photochromic Treatment
 

Photochromic lenses respond to changes in light by darkening automatically in sunlight and becoming clear when indoors. The lenses, also known as Transitions®, are available in various lens designs and materials. 
 

They benefit people who suffer from light sensitivity. They are also ideal for those who do not wish to invest in an additional pair of prescription sunglasses. The lenses can help enhance the appearance of eyeglasses. 

Other Types of Lens Coatings 

You can also get tinted and blue-blocking lenses where dyes are applied to reduce the visible light reaching the eye. There are different hues, ranging from deep shades to light tints, adding aesthetic style to eyeglasses. 
 

Other lens coatings are antifog and mirror coating. While some coatings are purely cosmetic, others help improve eyeglass safety and comfort. Think about the price when shopping for new eyeglasses. Some coatings are included in the overall cost of the lenses, while others come at an additional cost. 
 

Your eye doctor can recommend the best lens coatings for your needs. Consider your budget and how or where you will use the eyeglasses. Regardless of your lens coating, it would help if you took good care of your eyeglasses. 
 

For more information about eyeglass lens coatings, visit Clarity Eye Care at our McKinney, Texas, office. Call (972) 954-9595 to schedule an appointment today.