Lens Coatings Explained: Anti-Reflective, Scratch-Resistant, & More

Aug 1, 2023 | Eye Health Info

Do you often experience glare or eye strain when using your glasses? Or are you tired of having to replace your lenses frequently due to scratches? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you may want to consider adding coatings to your lenses. 

With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which coatings are worth investing in. Fortunately, our experts at Decatur Family Eye Care are here to help you navigate the world of lens coatings. In this blog post, we’ll explain the benefits of several popular lens coatings, including UV-blocking treatment, photochromic treatment, scratch-resistant coating, and anti-reflective coating. 

UV-blocking treatment 

UV-blocking treatment is an essential element of lens coatings. This treatment is a clear coating that is applied to your eyeglass lenses, which filters out harmful UV rays while still allowing visible light to transmit through. Many of our lenses at Decatur Family Eye Care come standard with this beneficial feature. Look for lenses that have a UV protection rating of 400 or higher for maximum protection.  

Photochromic treatment 

Photochromic treatment, also known as Transitions lenses, is designed to adjust to the amount of light around you. These lenses darken when you step outside into bright sunlight and quickly turn back to clear when you move indoors. Photochromic treatment can be added to any lens type, and it’s an excellent option for those who frequently move between indoor and outdoor environments. 

Scratch-resistant coating 

Scratch-resistant coating is a popular type of lens coating that makes lenses more durable. This coating is essential for individuals who use their eyeglasses frequently or work in environments that increase the risk of scratches. This coating will help protect your lenses from scratches caused by everyday wear and tear, such as cleaning them with the wrong type of fabric or dropping them accidentally. Without this coating, lenses can become scratched and damaged, causing them to need replacement sooner. 

Anti-reflective coating 

An anti-reflective coating helps to minimize glare and halos in low-light environments, making it easier to work on a computer, drive a car, or read in dim environments. This coating also removes unwanted reflections that can distract a person from the task at hand and can enhance overall vision. 

Hopefully, this blog has helped shed some light on the importance of lens coatings for your vision health. At Decatur Family Eye Care, our optometrists are experts in helping patients choose the right coatings for their specific needs. Whether you’re looking for protection from harmful UV rays, want convenient photochromic lenses, need scratch-resistant coatings, or want a glare-free viewing experience with anti-reflective coatings, there are plenty of options available to suit your preferences and needs. Talk to our eye doctor about what type of lens coatings might be right for you and start seeing your best today!