A lot of individuals wear glasses. Some wear it for fashion while some wear it because they require it. So, if you’re looking to get yourself some glasses, here are some important factors to consider.

Why do you need prescription glasses?
Individuals with poor vision are usually unable to see their surroundings clearly, and prescription glasses were created to ensure that they can. Prescription glasses are eyeglasses that help improve the focusing ability of the cornea and lenses of an individual.

Some individuals have nearsightedness, and to adjust their sight, they require convex lenses. This helps push the focal point to the retina by bending the light toward the lens.

Those with myopia or farsighted vision need concave lenses, as they help spread the light for the lens center.

In both cases, the shape of the eye of the individual has been affected. Prescription glasses and their strength are used to bend the light in a manner to combat the changes in the shape of the eye.

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What are the types of prescription glasses that are available?

There are three basic types of lenses when it comes to prescription glasses, including the following:

• High index
  High index glasses are made of a thinner material. This makes the prescription glasses light to wear and handle.
• Progressive
  Progressive glasses are used to handle two or more vision troubles. These glasses are used for bifocal and trifocal vision troubles. The lenses do not have any visible lines.
• Transition
  Transition lenses are used for prescription glasses, and they change color based on the light that hits them. When in sunlight, the glasses ban UV light. At night, they are clear.

The other types of lenses include the following:

• Aspheric
  Aspheric lenses have a gradual curvature from the center of the lens to the edge.
• Polarized
  Polarized glasses are used to reduce the glare of light. The reduction of glare leads to a more unobstructed view and sharper images.
• Polycarbonate
  Individuals who lead a very active lifestyle should opt for polycarbonate lenses, as they are resistant and resilient.

Lenses also come with different types of coatings, including the following:

• Blue-light resistant
  This coating helps individuals who are working on computers by reducing eye strain caused by blue light emitted from computer screens.
• Scratch-resistant
  This coating on prescription glasses reduces scratches on lenses.
• Anti-reflective
  This coating reduces the effect of glare and reflections and, therefore, eye strain.
• UV protection
  This coating reduces the impact of UV rays on the eye.

Now that you know all the types of lenses and prescription glasses available, it is time to choose the right one.

Choosing the right one for you

While prescription glasses are available in the market rather freely, choosing from among the vast range of choices can be rather tricky.

So, here are some tips that should help you pick the right prescription glasses.

• Understand the shape of the frame suitable for you
  When wearing prescription glasses, you need to choose the right frame that will fit your face. Frame shapes available are heart, oval, oblong, square, rectangle, diamond, round, and even cat eyes.
• Choose the type of lens you want
  From all the options mentioned above, you need to choose the kind of lens based on your job and lifestyle.
• Keep it in your budget
  Before you start shopping for prescription glasses, all you need to do is ensure that you have your budget noted down. Prescription glasses can often be costly, so don’t spend more than you intend to.

Taking care of prescription glasses

Prescription glasses are essential to those with vision impairment, but they are expensive and need to be cared for. Caring for prescription glasses includes ensuring that the lenses do not get scuffs, scratches, and, most importantly, does not hinder vision.

Here are some tips that you should keep in mind while cleaning and caring for prescription glasses.

• Never user paper; Paper tends to lead to scratches on the lens. This could lead to reduced vision.
• Do not ever hold the lenses. Always hold the prescription glasses with the frame. This will help avoid smudges on the lens.
• Always use a cleaning solution and a soft microfiber cloth.
• Do not wipe the lens on clothing.

Keep your prescription glasses with you at all times and, most importantly, get regular eye checkups to ensure that the glasses fit right.

Alternatives to prescription glasses

While prescription glasses are essential, not many are comfortable with them. So, as an alternative, you can try the following:

• Contact lenses
  Contact lenses and prescription glasses are not that different; it’s a matter of personal choice. Contacts fit right over the lens of the eye. You may not be able to notice a contact lens in someone’s eye. The only drawback is the increased chance of eye infection, which can be avoided when it comes to glasses.
• Lasik surgery
  Lasik surgery is a more permanent option when it comes to treating vision impairment. With Lasik surgery, individuals can stop relying on prescription glasses.