We often get questions when it comes to anti reflective (AR) coatings for glasses. It's quite common for people to be unaware if the lenses have a coating on their existing glasses. We feel it is really important to understand AR coatings, their pro's and con's. This blog aims to give you the knowledge to purchase prescription glasses with confidence, knowing you are getting the correct type of coating for your lifestyle and needs.
Design: Retro Spectacle - From Blue Light lenses to Regular Anti Reflective Coating.
What are anti reflective coatings?
The main function of an anti reflective coating is reduce glare and reflections from your spectacle lenses. Reflections are rays of light that are bounced off a surface, while glare is a type of reflection that can cause discomfort or even reduced vision.
These coatings are applied to the surface of the lenses (can be the back, front or both). The coatings are thin layers and different coatings are built up of different layers to enhance performance.
Design: Retro Spectacle - Lady wearing glasses without any anti reflective coatings - note the enhanced reflections on the lenses.
Why do we need anti reflective coatings?
Anti reflective coatings are beneficial to remove unwanted glare and reflections. They are not a necessity, but if you want to achieve optimum vision and best cosmetic finish then they are definitely advisable.
Glare can lead to eye strain and it's side effects including:
- Eye discomfort or soreness
- Blurred or double vision
- Headaches
- Dry Eyes
- Difficulty focusing
- Light sensitivity
- Heavy eyes/pressure
It's important to understand your work environment and lifestyle to get the best lenses for you. Prolonged screen use and poor lighting are just some of the factors that cause eye strain.
It may be that you work in an office environment with stark overhead lighting, or you spend all day at a computer screen. You may work in a role where eye contact with customers or clients is important. Is it just a case of wanting to feel more confident in your glasses, knowing that if they look nicer, you will feel better? Do you do a lot of driving in the dark? Ask yourself what you want to achieve from your spectacles.
Are anti reflective coatings worth it ?
Overall we definitely think that anti reflective coatings are worth it. The benefits fit so many scenarios for so many people. Don't get us wrong, if you have a cheap pair of readers that sits in a drawer for emergency use, then yes, you may not see the value in this, but if you are considering the coating for your every day spectacles then we think its a no brainer.
What is the best anti reflective coating?
The best anti reflective coating is the one that performs best for you. Having asked yourself the above workplace and lifestyle questions consider the below options.
If you spend all day on computers and digital devices? Do you work in an environment with artificial lights such as LEDs or fluorescent bulbs? If so you are going to benefit from out Digital Blue lenses. These lenses aim to reduce digital eye strain. They have a very slight yellow tinge which also takes the edge of bright light.
If you want a cost effective anti reflective coating that stops everyday glare and reflections, whilst enhancing the cosmetic appearance of your glasses then our See Clear lenses are the best choice for you. These lenses are our no frills anti reflective coating which are made up of 5 layers, and stops basic glare and reflections - a good all rounder!
Our See Clear & Clean lenses not only stop glare, reflections and enhance the cosmetic appearance of the lenses, but go one step further to ensure they are easier to keep clean. This coating is made of of additional layers to make the lenses water, dust and dirt repellent. This coating also comes with a two year warranty to further demonstrate the quality of the coating.