What Are High Index Lenses And Why Are They Important?

High index lenses are designed for people with strong prescriptions who need thinner, lighter, and more comfortable lenses compared to traditional ones. These lenses have a higher refractive index, meaning they can bend light more efficiently, allowing for a reduction in the amount of material needed to correct vision. This makes them an ideal solution for individuals with high prescriptions who want to avoid the bulky, thick lenses typically associated with stronger prescriptions.​

Benefits of High Index Lenses

  1. Thinner and Lighter: High index lenses are up to 50% thinner than standard lenses with the same prescription strength. This reduction in thickness offers improved comfort and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance​.
  2. Enhanced Optical Clarity: These lenses reduce visual distortion and aberrations commonly found in thicker lenses, providing sharper and clearer vision​.
  3. UV Protection: Many high index lenses come with built-in UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, reducing the risk of cataracts and other eye issues.
  4. Better Frame Compatibility: Due to their thinner profile, high-index lenses fit well in a wide range of modern, stylish frames, including rimless and semi-rimless designs, giving you more choices for fashion-forward eyewear​.

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Types of High Index Lenses

  1. 1.60 High Index: Best for moderate prescriptions (around +/-4.25 to +/-6.75). They are a step up from standard plastic lenses, providing a good balance between cost and performance.
  2. 1.67 High Index: Suitable for strong prescriptions (+/-7.00 to +/-9.00), offering an excellent combination of thinness, lightness, and cost​.
  3. 1.74 High Index: These are the thinnest available, recommended for very high prescriptions (+/-9.25 and above). They significantly reduce edge thickness for enhanced comfort and appearance.

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Who Should Consider High Index Lenses?

High index lenses are recommended for people with strong prescriptions who are looking for thinner and more lightweight glasses. If you’re tired of thick, heavy lenses, high index lenses can provide improved comfort, better visual aesthetics, and enhanced UV protection​.

Drawbacks to Consider

  1. Cost: High index lenses tend to be more expensive due to the advanced materials used in their manufacture.
  2. Increased Glare: These lenses are more prone to glare, but this can be mitigated by adding an anti-reflective coating​.

FAQ

  1. What are high index lenses?
    High index lenses are thin and lightweight lenses designed for people with strong prescriptions, offering better aesthetics and comfort than standard lenses.
  2. Who should choose high index lenses?
    Anyone with a prescription above +/-2.00 diopters who wants lighter, more comfortable lenses should consider high index lenses.
  3. What are the different types of high index lenses?
    Common types include 1.60, 1.67, and 1.74 index lenses, with 1.74 being the thinnest option available.
  4. Do high index lenses offer UV protection?
    Yes, most high index lenses come with built-in UV protection, shielding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
  5. Are high index lenses expensive?
    Yes, high index lenses are generally more expensive than standard lenses due to the advanced materials used, but they offer superior comfort and appearance.