Welcome to the world of glasses! If you’re new to wearing glasses, it can be overwhelming and confusing. There are so many types of glasses, lenses, frames, and coatings to choose from. But no worries, we’re here to help! In this blog post, we’re sharing all the information you need to know about glasses, so you can feel confident and informed when making your choice.
The benefits of wearing glasses
Wearing glasses helps you see clearly and reduces eye strain while reading or using electronics. Glasses also protect your eyes from dust and debris. Some doctors use prescription glasses to treat certain eye conditions. For example, your eye doctor may recommend glasses to help with eye strain or double vision.
Types of glasses
Different types of glasses serve different purposes. For example, if you’re nearsighted (meaning you have difficulty seeing things far away), you’ll need a different type of glasses than if you’re farsighted (meaning you have difficulty seeing things up close). There are also glasses for reading, bifocals (which have two different prescriptions in one lens for both near and far distances), and progressive lenses (which gradually change the prescription from top to bottom). Your eye doctor can help you determine which type of glasses you need.
Lens materials
Glasses lenses can be made of different materials, each with its own features. For example, polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and are a good choice for kids or sports enthusiasts. High-index lenses are thinner and lighter than standard lenses, which can be beneficial for stronger prescriptions. At Decatur Family Eye Care, we can help you choose the best lens material for your needs.
Frame styles
There are a variety of frame styles to choose from, including aviator, oval, rectangle, round, square, cat-eye, and butterfly. It’s crucial to consider your face shape when selecting frames since each type has its own pros and cons. For square-shaped faces, oval or round frames will work best, whereas rectangle and square frames are best for rounder faces.
Lens coatings
Lens coatings are thin layers applied to your eyeglass lenses that can enhance their durability, performance, and appearance. Here are some of the most common types of lens coatings:
- Anti-reflective (AR) coating: Anti-reflective coatings minimize glare, which can strain the eyes and cause discomfort. This coating is beneficial in both prescription glasses and sunglasses.
- Scratch-resistant coating: This coating helps protect your lenses from scratches, keeping them looking good as new. This is especially useful for people who are frequently on the move or active.
- Blue-light blocking coating: With the rise of screen time, our eyes are constantly exposed to blue light, which can cause eye strain and disrupt sleep cycles. This coating blocks blue light from reaching the eyes, reducing eye strain and improving sleep quality. People who spend a lot of time working on computers or using smartphones and tablets may find this lens coating particularly helpful.
We can help you decide which coatings are right for you based on your lifestyle and needs.
The basics of getting glasses
The first step in getting glasses is getting the right prescription. Your optometrist can determine your prescription during a comprehensive eye exam. This will involve reading letters on an eye chart or looking through different lenses to find the clearest vision. Once your prescription is determined, the next step is to choose frames and lenses that fit your needs and style. Your optician or eyewear specialist can help guide you through this process.
Caring for your glasses
Maintaining your glasses is key to making sure they last. Keeping up with cleaning them daily will ensure smudges and scratches don’t become an issue. Avoid using paper towels or tissues to clean your lenses, as these can scratch the delicate surface. Additionally, always store them in a protective case when you’re not wearing them—you don’t want to damage them by sitting on them or misplacing them.
Adjusting to wearing glasses
Finally, it’s worth remembering that it can take some time to adjust to wearing glasses. Don’t be surprised if you experience headaches or dizziness during the first few days—this is normal as your eyes adjust to the new prescription. Additionally, always wear your glasses as recommended by your optometrist, whether that’s only for reading or all day.
At Decatur Family Eye Care in Decatur, Alabama, we’re excited to be part of your journey to better vision. With our wide range of prescription glasses, we’re confident you’ll find glasses that perfectly match your needs and style. Book an eye exam with us today and let our team help you see the world with clarity and confidence!