Before You Buy

4 things to know.....

1) Focus on the lenses.

If you're like most people you choose your frames first. You may miss out on features that can enhance your comfort and eye protection. Factors to consider are your Rx, lifestyle, your medical and eye histories. 
 

Have a strong prescription??

The good news is that thick lenses can now be made into thinner, flatter, lighter ones. Opticians refer to these as mid-index, high-index and polycarbonate.

Active in sports?

You'll need something strong and durable - likely a sport frame or goggle.

Having trouble seeing up close?

Reading glasses may help. Over the counter versions often have significant distortion so its best to order ones made to your Rx. You might also consider lenses that let you see near and far without switching glasses. Most, called progressives,  now have invisible lines.

Sit in front of a computer?

Lenses created just for this activity will relieve eyestrain and tiredness.

Bothered by reflection on your lenses?

Light bouncing off your lenses, form overhead lights, computer screens, windows, can cause eye fatigue. Glare form oncoming headlights at night can be distracting. Anti-reflective treatments (Crizal) work wonders, providing clear sharp vision.

Concerned about sun protection?

Most people know about the damaging effects of UV rays on skin - these rays are just as damaging to eyes. Many new lens materials have built in UV blockage.

Do a lot of driving??

Polarized sunglasses in your Rx will prove themselves indispensable by reducing glare and reflection.

2) Choose your frame.

Of course you want a frame that's flattering, but be sure it will properly hold your lenses.

Many people don't realize that certain lenses work best with certain types of frames. Your optician will guide you to frames that work well with your Rx. And then its time to think about fashion! Your frames should match your face... and your personality. Trendy? Conservative? Somewhere in between? 

Contrast the shape of your frame with the shape of your face. Rectangular works best for round faces, round for square faces. (more)

Frame size should be in scale with face size.

Color should compliment your skin tone and hair color. "Cool" complexions have blue or pink undertones: good colors are black, pink, blue, pewter. "Warm" complexions have a yellow cast: best bets are camel, khaki, gold and peach.

Also, pay attention to frame material. Whether you want frames that are lightweight, flexible, hypo-allergenic or strong, your optician can guide you to what's just right. 

3) Are photochromic lenses right for you? 

They might be the optimal choice for your primary pair of glasses.

Indoors they're clear. Outdoors they turn as dark as sunglasses, reducing glare, eyestrain, fatigue and blocking UVA and UVB rays. Photochromic Transitions lenses are available in any type of plastic lens, a wide range of prescriptions and lens designs, and grey or brown tints.

4) Do you really need more than 1 pair?

Sometimes another pair of glasses does come in handy!

One pair of glasses can't do it all. Even if your primary pair has photochromic lenses its still helpful to have sunglasses for driving, boating or golf. Occupational glasses for computer users, safety glasses for do it yourselfers and sports glasses for racquet sport players are all invaluable, both for comfort and protection. Your needs depend on your lifestyle and activities.