So, you have found a pair of eyeglasses that you really love and you are ready to purchase them! Then you come to the purchasing page. There is a screeching halt. You see all these confusing and different words like "polycarbonate" and "1.67 index" not to mention "anti-reflective" and "anti-scratch" coatings but you have no idea what they mean much less what they do for your eyeglasses and your prescription! Fear not - this guide to eyeglass lenses and coatings will help you purchase those glasses with the ease and grace of a pro!

Lenses
Basic lenses
Basic lenses are the standard, everyday lenses meant for people with low-to-moderate prescriptions. Those people who have +/- 0.25 to 2.00 prescription glasses should use basic lenses when ordering their eyeglasses.
Thin lenses
Perhaps you need lighter lenses or have a prescription that runs +/- 2.25 to 4.00, thin lenses are around 30% lighter than basic lenses. They run great for heavier frames as well - putting less pressure on your nose and sinuses. You will be amazed at how light these lenses really are!
Thin and Light Polycarbonate lenses
While not as thin as the thin lenses, polycarbonate lenses are the best choice for anyone who plays sports or for children due to their near indestructibility. Polycarbonate lenses are also shatter resistant and extremely light weight. People with prescriptions between +/- 2.50 to 4.00 will have the best luck with polycarbonate lenses.
Extra Thin lenses
Extra thin lenses have an index of 1.67 making them the thinnest and lightest lenses available. They are 45% thinner than a standard plastic lens and are perfect for anyone with a prescription higher than +/- 5.00. They also work best with heavier, plastic eyeglass frames keeping the frame light on your nasal passages.

Coatings
Anti-Scratch
Anti-scratch coating is great for resisting scratches - but it does not prevent ALL scratches. The coating is applied with a silicone-based solvent and involves dipping the lens on both sides into the solvent. It leaves no color or tint behind and will not obstruct your vision in any way. Anti-scratch coating is meant to prevent minor scratches to the surface of the lens and works great in kid's glasses.
Anti-Glare
If you want to reduce the glare coming from your computer or from any surface while driving, this is the best coating for you. Anti-glare improves the efficiency of the eyeglasses since less light is lost through reduction of the glare. This is the best coating for people who drive at night as well as those who use a computer on a regular basis. The decrease of glare provides the wearer with the clearest line of vision possible.
UV Protection
Regardless of how much sun you think you take in, your eyes become more damaged every time they see sun light. Ultraviolet protection provides the best coverage for your eyes. Any type of overexposure to UV light can cause cataracts, retinal damage, as well as many other eye problems. The coating is applied to both sides of the lens but is not needed on polycarbonate lenses - as they absorb UV light naturally on their own. UV coating also does not change the color of the lens nor does it create problems with your vision.

Now you are armed and ready for the purchasing page! Pick your choices well and remember that our customer service representatives are here to help if you have any questions! Send us an email at support@glassesusa.com.