Your complete guide to glasses lenses

When it’s time to buy new glasses, frames tend to be the main attraction. We can get distracted by colours, shapes, and styles but lens choice is equally, if not more important. There are many types of lenses for glasses that can improve your vision, reduce eye strain, and enhance your comfort.

This guide will help you understand the different types of lenses, materials, and coatings available as well as giving you guidance on how to choose the best lenses for your needs and lifestyle.

What are the main types of lenses for glasses?

The most common types of prescription lenses are single vision, multifocal (also called progressive) vocational (also called occupational) and bifocal.

Single vision lenses have one power across the entire surface of the lens. They can be used if you need help with long distance vision, or just with close vision, or sometimes to help with vision at all distances. have one power across the entire surface of the lens. They can be used if you need help with long distance vision, or just with close vision, or sometimes to help with vision at all distances.

Multifocal or progressive lenses provide vision correction across multiple distances. They don’t have a visible line typically seen in bifocals and allow you to switch between near, intermediate and distance vision seamlessly.

Vocational or occupational lenses are designed for the dual purpose of screen use and reading. The top section of the vocational lens is for computer distance and the bottom section is for reading.

Bifocal lenses combine two fields of vision with a distinct line between them which is visible on the lens. Bifocal lenses have two different powers in the lens, with a distinct line between them which is visible on the lens.

What lens materials are available?

Lens material can affect how your glasses feel and perform. Some lenses are lighter, some are stronger and the lens materials that are recommended will depend on your prescription, your lifestyle, and your comfort preferences.

Standard plastic, also known as CR-39, is a reliable and affordable option for lower prescriptions.

Trivex is an impact-resistant and lightweight material. It’s often commended for children, active people or anyone who needs more durable lenses for high impact activities or workplaces. Trivex is also slightly thinner than standard CR-39 lenses.

High refractive index lenses are thinner and lighter than standard lenses, making them popular for people with stronger prescriptions who want a more streamlined lens appearance and a lighter, more comfortable pair of glasses.

Glass lenses are known for their scratch resistance and visual clarity, but they are heavier and less common in modern glasses.

What do lens coatings do?

Lens coatings can protect your lenses, improve visual clarity, and help with specific lifestyle needs.

A scratch-resistant coating is standard on all lenses, helping them stay in good condition for longer.

Anti-reflective coatings help reduce glare from screens, headlights, and overhead lights. They may help with eye strain and make your lenses look more transparent in direct light, which is useful when you’re being recorded in photos or videos. Anti-reflective coatings are usually recommended as vision is as clear as it can be with this coating.

The other benefit of this coating is that others can see the eyes more clearly through the lenses, which can improve aesthetics and personal connection.

UV protection helps block harmful ultraviolet rays, helping protect your eyes even if your lenses are clear.

Blue light filter lenses may help reduce eye strain. Blue light is emitted from the sun and naturally helps to regulate our sleep patterns. Blue light is also emitted by screen-based devices, some TVs and lights, and other smart devices. Blue light filtering lenses may help with sleep patterns by limiting the amount of blue light entering the eyes.

Photochromic lenses, also known as transitions lenses, darken in sunlight and go back to clear indoors. They’re a convenient alternative for prescription glasses wearers who want to avoid the need to carry sunglasses in addition to their clear glasses.

Polarised lenses reduce reflected glare from surfaces like wet roads, snow, and water. They can help you see more clearly in these environments. Polarisation is included in some sunglass lenses and can be added to prescription sunglass lenses too.

How do I choose the right lenses for my lifestyle?

Finding the right types of lenses for glasses depends on your prescription, age, and lifestyle. If you wear your glasses daily, single vision or multifocal lenses with an anti-reflection coating could be the ideal option. If you spend extended time using screens, you could consider lenses with a blue light filter and anti-reflection coating. An optometrist will be able to advise and recommend the best lenses for you.

If you drive regularly, polarised lenses can reduce glare during the day, while anti-reflection coatings can improve visibility at night. If you’re often outdoors, photochromic lenses or prescription sunglasses can offer sun protection. High index lenses will be more comfortable for stronger prescriptions, providing a thinner and lighter look and feel, with anti-reflection and scratch resistant coatings for added protection.

Should I get high refractive index lenses?

High index lenses are designed to be thinner and lighter than standard plastic lenses. They’re ideal for people with moderate and higher prescriptions, above +/-2.00.

If you want glasses that feel more comfortable, with a less bulky appearance, high index lenses can help. They offer a thinner appearance for those who prefer thin frames or a minimalist look. You can also combine them with an anti-reflection coating for a more comfortable, all-day-wear experience.

Which lens options are available at Bupa Optical?

At Bupa Optical, we offer a wide range of lens types and lens add-ons to suit diverse needs and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for everyday lenses, sun protection or specialised coatings, our team can help you find the right combination for you.

Our lens packages include options for blue light filters, anti-reflection coatings and photochromic lenses. You can visit your nearest Bupa Optical store to talk to one of our trained team members about what’s best for you. You can also talk to our team online through live chat.

Find your nearest Bupa Optical store

Frequently asked questions

What are high index lenses, and do I need them?

High index lenses are thinner and lighter than standard lenses and they’re suitable for stronger prescriptions to help reduce the appearance of thick lenses and to make the glasses lighter and more comfortable to wear.

What’s the difference between anti-reflection and blue light filter?

Lenses with an anti-reflection coating help to reduce reflections through the lenses, giving clearer vision, while lenses with a blue light filter help to reduce high-energy blue light from screens and devices. You can get both features on the same lens.

Are photochromic lenses appropriate for everyday use?

Yes, they adjust to different light conditions, offering sharp vision indoors and becoming darker when outside in the sun. They’re a convenient all-in-one option for anyone who doesn’t want to carry around extra pairs of glasses.

Which lens material is best for kids?

Trivex or polycarbonate lenses are best for children and anyone who regularly engages in high-impact activities. They’re lightweight, impact-resistant and offer added protection for active lifestyles. Trivex lenses are preferred because of their superior vision qualities.

The right lenses can make a significant difference to your comfort and style as a glasses wearer. Whether you’re choosing your first pair or upgrading your current glasses, understanding your options will give you the best chance of finding the perfect frames and lenses to suit your lifestyle.

Check out our full range of glasses online or visit us in store for expert advice on lenses, coatings, and frames.

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