Choosing a new pair of glasses can be fun but challenging. First, there are so many options for frames that it may take you a while to decide. Then, once you’ve chosen your frames, you’ll be presented with a wide range of options for types of lens coating. Which ones, if any, should you choose?

First, note that some coatings may already be included in premium lenses, and some lenses won’t support certain types of coating. Some coatings are beneficial for enhancing the performance of your lens, while others are purely cosmetic. Your optometrist can help you decide which is right for you, but here are some of your options.

• Anti-reflective (AR) coatings are also known as anti-glare. These thin coatings help diminish reflections and glare from both the front and back surfaces of the lenses, offering the aesthetic benefit of lenses that look more transparent, allowing for more direct eye contact. They also help improve light transmission in dim light, while reducing glare in bright sunlight. This type of coating is recommended for all kinds of lenses, especially polycarbonate, aspheric, and high-index lenses.
• Scratch-resistant coating is especially important for kids’ lenses. Eyeglasses are no longer made of glass, which makes them lighter and less likely to break. However, today’s plastic lenses are more prone to scratches, which can impede vision. Many lenses have built-in scratch resistant coatings, but if yours don’t, it’s an addition worth considering.
• Some coatings offer UV protection. Just as ultraviolet rays can damage your skin, unprotected UV exposure can damage your eyes, leading to cataracts or macular degeneration. There are prescription sunglasses, and many eyeglass lenses have this protection built in, but there are also coatings that can be added if yours don’t have this protection.
• Photochromic coatings also offer UV protection. These are lenses that darken automatically when exposed to sunlight, returning to clear once indoors. For people who are sensitive to light or can’t afford a separate pair of prescription sunglasses, these are a great option.
• Anti-fog and anti-static electricity coatings address very specific problems. If your glasses fog up during activities like sports or when you come in from outdoors, anti-fog or “hydrophobic” coating may be the solution. If you spend time in a dry environment where dust and dirt sticks to your lenses, you may benefit from anti-static coating.
• Tinted lenses can be stylish or aid vision. A gray tint can keep color perception from changing with sunglasses, while a yellow tint can increase contrast. There are many tints available, and there’s even a specific tint to reduce eyestrain associated with Computer Vision Syndrome.
• Mirror coating is purely cosmetic. These coatings keep your eyes hidden from view, and they come in a variety of colors.

Whether you are concerned that you may be experiencing vision or hearing problems, or you just need a routine eye exam, contact Denver Eye Surgeons. The premier multi-specialty vision care practice in Denver, Colorado, Denver Eye Surgeons offers a wide range of eye care services, providing the best care in a friendly environment. We offer comprehensive eye exams to help keep your vision healthy, as well as advanced eye care services, using the most innovative treatments in procedures performed by experienced medical professionals. Our community-focused practice has the best doctors and the best staff, all here to meet the needs of you and your family. Call 303.279.6600 or contact us through our website!