Are polycarbonate sunglasses safe?

Polycarbonate lenses are much lighter in weight than plastic lenses. This flexibility also means polycarbonate and Trivex lenses require a scratch-resistant coating to avoid surface scratches. Today’s modern scratch-resistant coatings can make the surface of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses nearly as hard as glass. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses both block completely of the sun’s Ultra violet rays with no need for special UV-blocking lens coatings.
Trivex will not require the application of a UV coating because it naturally blocks the majority of UV rays. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts in your articles. Read our editorial process for more information about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

• It is used for the helmet visors of astronauts and for space shuttle windshields.
• Verywell Health articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals.
• Adults who regularly play sports or who hold active jobs would also reap the benefits of these kind of lenses.
• Since then, polycarbonate lenses have grown to be the typical for safety glasses, sports goggles and children’s eyewear, and its own popularity shows no signs of diminishing.

Again, this makes polycarbonate lenses an ideal match for applications throughout the safety industry. Produced by PPG Industries in 2001, Trivex lenses are lightweight plus much more impact-resistant than regular plastic or glass lenses. Polycarbonate lenses can cost around double the price of regular eyeglasses.
Actually, most protective eye gear and sports goggles are made from polycarbonate lenses, even though no vision prescription is necessary. In addition, polycarbonate boasts built-in protection from the sun’s UV rays, making this a perfect lens material for time spent outdoors. Unlike glass or other lens materials, polycarbonate is naturally 100% UV blocking without requiring an additional coating or treatment. This means your standard eyeglasses or safety glasses can protect your eyes from sun damage without the usage of dark lenses or shades. The cost of eyeglass lenses depends upon what they’re manufactured from and if they have special features, coatings, or enhancements. Sometimes, you can spend less in the event that you buy new eyeglass lenses only online instead of from your eye doctor.

Benefits Of Plastic Lenses

Poly is heated until it melts and is quickly poured in to the lens mold. Then, it is compacted under ruthless and cooled off in to the final lens form. In terms of efficient light refraction, glass lenses are still considered your best option. However, they’re much thicker and heavier, making them the less suitable choice for people on the go. In addition, it makes the lenses appear somewhat invisible and incredibly thin. Whereas glass and regular plastics will probably crack if hit with an airborne object, polycarbonate is softer and therefore can absorb energy.
Developed in the 1950s, this virtually unbreakable form of plastic helps create incredibly strong glasses and might just save you some cash in the end. That’s especially the case with comparing polycarbonate to trivex, a rival to the technology introduced by PPG Industries. These lenses are created using a process that’s more similar to regular plastic, and a different base material. That results in lenses that are thicker, but lighter than polycarbonate lenses. Whether you perform yard work during a hot day or work near bright light sources, it is possible to keep your eyes safe and protected from that light.

While quality eye care is important, the price could be a critical element in your decision-making process. Having a conversation with your optician about your eyewear needs and shopping around to get the best price is wise. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of polycarbonate prescription safety lenses to help you make a smarter choice. The trouble of polycarbonate safety lenses should not be underestimated.

Are Plastic Lenses Bad For Your Eyes?

Polycarbonate is a particular type of strong plastic that’s often used in eyeglasses, in addition to in car headlights, DVDs, and a variety of industrial applications. This is a thermoplastic, which starts as a good material that is melted and injected into lens molds, compressed under ruthless and then cooled – all within a few minutes.

• For example, it is possible to read a print book close up, use a computer at middle distance, and see distant road signs when driving.
• These different lens powers enable you to do a selection of tasks without switching your eyeglasses.
• If you’re tired of purchasing new glasses every quarter, polycarbonate is definitely for you.
• Plastic lenses allow excellent compatibility with scratch-resistant coating, anti-reflective coating and tinting applications.

This material was initially developed for the aerospace industry, and continues to be used today for astronaut visors and space shuttle windows. Basically, it stands up well to the superior stress of low air pressure. That durability comes in handy during a selection of safety applications. If you need any assistance in choosing the right lenses for the eyewear, please contact us now. Our expert team have vast years of working experience in the optical industry and may help guide you through your choice making process.

For instance, some offer protection from the glare of computer screens. Others thin out lenses that could otherwise be thick and stand out of a frame. A line bisects bifocal lenses to separate both lens power zones.