Hoya Vision’s Guide to Choosing the Right Lens Thickness

Introduction

Choosing the right lens thickness is important when it comes to eyewear. The thickness of a lens can affect the overall look and feel of your glasses, as well as your visual acuity. In this guide, we will explore how to choose the right lens thickness for your needs.

Lens Material

The first thing to consider is the material of the lens. Different materials have different densities and indexes of refraction, which affect the thickness of the lens. Some common lens materials include:

• CR-39: This is a plastic material commonly used for eyeglasses. It has a low density and refractive index, which means it is relatively thick and heavy.
• Polycarbonate: This is a lightweight and impact-resistant plastic material. It has a higher index of refraction than CR-39, which means it is thinner for the same prescription.
• High-index plastic: This is a type of plastic material that has a higher index of refraction than polycarbonate. It is thinner and lighter than both CR-39 and polycarbonate.
• Glass: This is a dense material that has a high index of refraction. It is rarely used for eyeglasses these days due to its weight and fragility.

Lens Prescription

The second thing to consider is your lens prescription. The higher your prescription, the thicker your lenses will need to be. If you have a lower prescription, you can usually opt for thinner lenses.

Single Vision Lenses

For single vision lenses, the thickness will depend on your prescription and the material of your lens. Generally, if you have a prescription between +/-2.00, you can opt for standard CR-39 lenses. If your prescription is higher than +/-2.00, you may want to consider polycarbonate or high-index lenses.

Multifocal Lenses

If you require bifocal or progressive lenses, the thickness will depend on the size of the lens and the material used. Progressive lenses tend to be thicker than bifocals, as they require more space to accommodate the different prescriptions. High-index materials are recommended for multifocal lenses, as they can reduce the overall thickness.

Lens Coatings

Another factor to consider is the type of lens coating you want. Certain coatings, such as anti-reflective coatings, can reduce the appearance of lens thickness by minimizing reflections. If you opt for a high-index material, you may also want to consider adding an anti-scratch or anti-glare coating to protect your lenses and improve your vision.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lens thickness is important for both the appearance and function of your eyewear. By considering your lens material, prescription, and coating options, you can find the best lenses for your needs. Talk to your eye care professional or lens provider for more information on choosing the right lens thickness.