Plastic:
Plastic is the most popular lens material. It is lighter than glass
and is easily tinted to a variety of colors. It may not be as
scratch resistant as glass but a coating can be added to give it
more scratch resistance.
Polycarbonate:
Polycarbonate lenses are lighter
than plastic and are more impact resistant. Because of the impact
resistance, polycarbonate is the safest lens material available for
children and other active patients. This lens material also absorbs
all harmful UV light.
Glass:
Glass lenses have been popular for many years. They are heavier than
plastic but are more scratch resistant. The optics of glass are
still superior to other lens materials. Glass lenses do have to be
heat or chemical treated to increase impact resistance.
High Index:
High index lenses are similar to polycarbonate lenses. The material
is thinner and often lighter in weight. The high index material is
used to make a stronger prescription more attractive. It absorbs all
harmful UV light and can be easily tinted.
Transitions or Photochromatic:
A transition lens is a plastic lens that is next to clear indoors
and darkens outdoors. A photochromatic lens is the same as a
transition but in glass instead of plastic. Both materials are
available in brown or grey.
