Scratch-resistant lenses are one of the most common upgrades available for prescription glasses. While these coatings can improve lenses’ durability, they don’t make them completely scratch-proof. So how much protection do they really provide?

Keep reading to learn more about scratch-resistant lenses, how they work, their benefits and limitations, and how to care for glasses with scratch-resistant coatings. 

What Are Scratch-Resistant Lenses?

Wearing your glasses for everyday activities exposes the lenses to dust, dirt, accidental drops, and other scratch-causing scenarios, including:

• Cleaning lenses with paper towels, tissues, or clothing
• Wiping lenses while dust or debris is still on the surface
• Storing glasses without a protective case or carrying them loose in a purse, backpack, or pocket
• Placing glasses face-down on hard surfaces
• Accidental drops or contact with abrasive materials

Scratch-resistant coatings protect your glasses from wear and tear, helping the lenses stay clear so they don’t obstruct your vision. These lenses have been treated with a special coating that helps resist minor scratches from daily wear. This coating is particularly helpful for lenses made of polycarbonate and high-index plastic, which are impact-resistant but naturally softer than glass. 

However, scratch-resistant doesn’t mean scratch-proof. All lens materials can be scratched under the right conditions, and scratch-resistant lenses can still be damaged by sharp objects or significant impacts. Careful handling is essential for maximizing the lifespan of your lenses. 

Benefits of Scratch-Resistant Lenses

Scratch-resistant coatings are beneficial for most people who wear glasses. They’re typically available with a small additional fee, and the added durability often outweighs the cost. 

There are many benefits of opting for scratch-resistant lenses, including:

• Longer lens life: Minimizing scratches helps lenses stay usable for longer, which means they won’t need to be replaced as often. 
• Better visual clarity: Scratches can scatter light and reduce sharpness. A smooth, scratch-free lens helps you see more clearly. 
• Improved appearance: Scratch-free lenses look cleaner and newer, which is important for people who wear their glasses every day. 
• Added value: Scratch-resistant coatings can help protect your investment in quality glasses. 

How to Properly Care for Scratch-Resistant Lenses

While scratch-resistant lenses are more durable than those without special coatings, you still need to take proper care of them. This means cleaning them correctly: rinsing them with water before wiping away debris, using special lens cleaning solutions, and cleaning with a microfiber cloth. Make sure you store them safely as well — keep your glasses in a protective case when not in use and avoid placing the lenses directly against hard surfaces. 

Visit Wolcott Optical for Glasses that Fit Your Lifestyle

Our team at Wolcott Optical can recommend lens materials and coatings based on your lifestyle, hobbies, job, and prescription needs. Whether that’s scratch-resistant lenses or another durable option, you can trust that your new glasses will provide you with the perfect balance between durability, comfort, and performance. Visit our store today to learn more about scratch-resistant coatings and explore a wide range of options that fit your needs. 

While all quality sunglasses should block harmful UV rays and help you see more comfortably in sunny environments, there are certain features that set some sunglasses apart from others, such as lens polarization. 

If you’re in the market for a new pair of sunglasses and are struggling to figure out which kind is right for you, keep reading to learn the differences between non-polarized and polarized sunglass lenses, the benefits and drawbacks of each type, and the role of eyewear professionals like the team at Wolcott Optical. 

What Are Polarized Sunglass Lenses?

Polarized sunglass lenses contain a special filter that blocks horizontally reflected light. This reduces glare while helping you maintain clear vision, improves visual comfort when spending long periods of time outdoors, increases contrast and clarity in bright sunlight, reduces eye strain, and makes colors appear richer and more vibrant. Many polarized sunglass lenses are available with prescription vision correction, as well. 

Polarized lenses are great for:

• Driving on sunny days
• Boating and fishing
• Spending time at the beach or lake
• Hiking and outdoor recreation
• Snowy environments 

What Are Non-Polarized Sunglass Lenses?

Non-polarized sunglass lenses are your regular, run-of-the-mill option. They reduce overall brightness by tinting the lenses, but unlike polarized sunglass lenses, they don’t eliminate glare caused by light reflections off of water, roads, snow, and vehicles. 

However, they’re available in a wide variety of colors, materials, and prescription options. Plus, they’re typically more affordable than polarized sunglass lenses. 

A significant advantage of non-polarized sunglasses is that they preserve the visibility of digital screens, LCD displays, and instrument panels. They may be the better choice for:

• Flying aircraft
• Operating equipment with LCD screens
• Viewing digital dashboards or GPS devices
• Certain winter sports where seeing icy patches is important

Choosing the Best Sunglass Lenses for Your Lifestyle

Both polarized and non-polarized lenses can work well for everyday wear — it just depends on your personal preferences and daily activities. 

If you drive frequently, polarized sunglass lenses may improve your comfort by minimizing glare from the pavement and other vehicles. They’re also great for outdoor enthusiasts who spend lots of time doing activities that involve water, snow, or being out in the bright sunlight for extended periods of time. 

If you frequently use digital displays while outdoors, non-polarized lenses may provide better visibility. 

Other Features to Consider Alongside Polarization

Polarization isn’t the only helpful feature that sunglasses can have. Look for sunglasses with these features:

• 100% UVA and UVB protection
• Scratch-resistant coatings
• Anti-reflective coatings for the back of the lenses
• Mirror coatings
• Photochromic/transition lenses

Visit Wolcott Optical to Explore Sunglasses Options 

If you’re ready to invest in a pair of sunglasses that’s comfortable, effective, durable, and stylish, visit Wolcott Optical in Salt Lake City, Utah. Our team of experienced professionals can recommend different lenses and styles based on your hobbies, job, vision needs, and personal style. When you try on different lens options and frames before purchasing, you can ensure your sunglasses are exactly what you’re looking for. 

Everyone knows that exposure to UV rays can be dangerous, which is why we wear sunscreen when spending time in the sun. But many people forget that their eyes also need UV protection. Long-term sun exposure can have serious effects on eye health, which is why UV-blocking eyeglass lenses are so important. 

Keep reading to learn what UV radiation is, why your eyes need protection from it, some eye conditions linked to UV exposure, the importance of wearing glasses with built-in UV protection, and some additional tips for protecting your long-term eye health. 

Why Your Eyes Need UV Protection

Not all the light from the sun is visible to the human eye. The sun also gives off ultraviolet (UV) light. We can’t see it, but because of its high frequency and short wavelength, it can damage the cells in our bodies — including our eyes — over time, even on cloudy days. 

There are three types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are largely absorbed by the earth’s atmosphere, but both UVA and UVB exposure can accumulate throughout a person’s lifetime, damaging the surface and internal structures of the eyes. 

Potential Eye Conditions Linked to UV Exposure

Just as prolonged UV exposure on your skin can cause skin cancer, it can damage your eyes if you don’t have proper UV protection. The following eye conditions have been linked to UV exposure:

• Cataracts: Prolonged UV exposure may increase your risk of developing cataracts, which affect your vision by clouding the lenses. 
• Macular degeneration: Macular degeneration is an age-related retinal condition that causes a loss of central vision. Research suggests that UV exposure may contribute to long-term retinal damage. 
• Photokeratitis: Photokeratitis is like a painful sunburn on your eyes. It’s commonly caused by sunlight reflecting off the snow or water. 
• Pterygium (surfer’s eye): Pterygium is a fleshy, raised bump in the corner of the eye that’s typically caused by excessive UV exposure. 

The Importance of Eyeglasses with UV Protection

Not all eyeglass lenses provide complete UV protection. To ensure your eyes are completely shielded from the sun, you should make sure your eyeglasses and sunglasses are made with protective coatings that provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection. 

Remember that darker lenses don’t necessarily provide better UV protection. While lens tint affects brightness, it doesn’t block harmful radiation. Even clear prescription lenses can offer excellent UV protection. 

Wearing glasses with UV protection is most important on sunny summer days, in winter when the sunlight reflects off the snow, at the beach or on the water, while playing outdoor sports, and while driving. You should wear them even on overcast days, since UV rays can penetrate the clouds. 

Tips for Protecting Your Eyes from UV Damage

If you want to ensure your eyes are protected from UV damage, follow these tips:

• Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection
• If you wear prescription glasses, choose lenses with built-in UV protection
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for additional protection
• Schedule routine comprehensive eye exams to monitor long-term eye health

UV Protective Eyewear at Wolcott Optical

At Wolcott Optical, we understand that protecting your eyes today can support your long-term eye health, which is why we offer a wide range of UV protective eyeglasses and sunglasses. We can help you find the right eyewear based on your lifestyle, occupation, and vision needs. Visit our store today to explore your options and receive personalized recommendations.