High-Quality Prescription Glasses: A Comprehensive Guide
High-quality prescription glasses can cost several thousand crowns. Therefore, they should serve you reliably for as long as possible. For this reason, it is essential to clarify which parameters to focus on when purchasing.
Find Out the Exact and Current Diopter Values
The diopter is a unit of optical power, and it is used in relation to the lenses of the human eye. Many people do not see as well as those with healthy vision. Diopters for glasses determine how strong the lenses need to be to correct vision. Poor vision can be congenital but also worsens with age. There are two basic problems:
- Farsightedness (hypermetropia) – The affected individual has difficulty seeing close objects. A "+" sign precedes the diopter value.
- Nearsightedness (myopia) – The individual has trouble seeing distant objects. A "-" sign precedes the diopter value.
If you plan to purchase prescription glasses, you should know your exact and current diopter values. Generally, diopters can change over time. Additionally, these values may differ between the left and right eye, so the measurement should be accurate for both.
Focus on Other Essential Values from the Prescription
When buying prescription glasses, you should know not only the diopter value (SPH) but also other important values from your eye exam prescription. These include:
- Pupil distance (PD) – This is measured in millimeters and indicates the distance between the centers of the pupils.
- Cylinder value (CYL) – This is significant in the case of astigmatism, a condition that negatively affects vision quality.
- Cylinder axis (AX) – Indicates the degree of astigmatism.
Pay Attention to the Type of Prescription Lenses
Prescription glasses have lenses that may possess special properties. When choosing, you can also focus on this aspect:
- Thinned lenses – Made from optical materials with a higher refractive index, allowing the lenses to be significantly thinner while maintaining the same diopter quality. Glasses with these lenses are also lighter.
- Anti-reflective lenses – These include anti-reflective elements that prevent glare and reduce reflections, making your eyes look more natural. Additionally, vision through them can be clearer and more contrasted.
- Photochromic lenses – Also known as self-tinting lenses. These react to UV light intensity and tint according to the current level of sunlight.
- Tinted lenses – Found in prescription sunglasses that improve vision while protecting against UV radiation.
- Blue light-blocking lenses – Prevent blue light from screens from affecting the body and the production of melatonin, the "sleep hormone."
Pay Attention to the Frame Material
Frames are the structure of the glasses. Their material significantly affects comfort and durability. Nowadays, there are many options available. The main types include:
- Plastic frames – Lightweight, cheaper, and available in various colors. However, they are not very resistant to mechanical damage.
- Metal frames – Although more expensive and heavier, they are much more durable, so these glasses can last a long time without signs of wear.
- Titanium frames – Titanium is a hypoallergenic material. Glasses with titanium frames are also lighter and have an elegant appearance, but they are more expensive.
- Wooden frames – Wood is a traditional material, and products made from it remain popular. Wooden glasses are often handmade, which is reflected in their price.
Do Not Underestimate the Correct Size of the Glasses
Prescription glasses must fit perfectly to ensure comfort. In this respect, three basic parameters need to be considered, which are typically provided in combination:
- Lens width – Usually the first dimension listed, indicating the lens size at its widest point. A width less than 53 mm is labeled as M, while widths above 58 mm are labeled as L. Sizes in between are generally considered standard.
- Bridge width – The second value specifies the distance between the frames at the bridge of the nose, ranging from 15 to 25 mm.
- Temple length – The last number in the sequence represents the length of the temple arms from the front to the back. For most glasses, this ranges between 135 and 145 mm.
Consider the Design of the Prescription Glasses
Prescription glasses are not only intended to improve vision but also serve as a prominent fashion accessory. Therefore, you should not overlook their aesthetic aspect. Factors such as gender, age, and face shape may play a role:
- Gender – While many glasses are now marketed as "unisex," some products are still better suited for men or women.
- Age – Age can also influence your choice. Glasses designed for children should not only be smaller but may feature playful designs.
- Face shape:
- Oval face – Can choose any type of glasses.
- Round face – Should opt for square or rectangular lenses.
- Square or triangular face – Glasses with oval or round lenses are ideal.
Note: Since glasses are an interesting fashion accessory, you can also find variants without prescription lenses, worn purely as a style statement.