How to Remove Scratches From Glasses

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Although you can't remove scratches from glasses, learning how to prevent them is the next best thing.
How to Remove Scratches From Glasses

Scratched glasses can be an annoyance for glasses wearers, affecting the appearance and functionality of the frames. The only way to remove scratches from a glasses lens is to replace it.

However, sometimes DIY methods are suggested online. The reality is that these methods are much more likely to cause further damage than to help repair scratched glasses.

Can you remove scratches from prescription glasses?

Removing a scratch from your prescription glasses is not possible, as it will cause permanent damage to the lens surface. So once a lens is scratched deep enough, it’s scratched for good. Although an optician can adjust the glasses and give advice on fit and care, it is best to replace the lens entirely.

Some DIY suggestions for removing scratches from glasses include everyday household items like toothpaste, baking soda, and furniture polish. One of the significant issues with these fixes is that they all rely on the abrasive nature of the chemicals found in these items.

Removing scratches from glasses using any of these ideas not only puts you at risk of damaging any special lens coatings but also has the potential to alter the shape of your lenses.

Remember that the whole function of your prescription lenses is to provide you with the necessary adjustments to see life clearly! If you alter the lenses even slightly, it will affect the functionality of your prescription glasses irreversibly, leaving you in a worse position than before

How to get scratches out of glasses with baking soda

Baking soda is an abrasive cleaner, so using this to remove scratches from your lenses could further scratch them. Baking soda can warp your lenses and erode lens coating, therefore worsening your vision. Using this material to remove scratches is risky, so we do not recommend it.

Does using toothpaste on scratched glasses work?

Similarly to baking soda, toothpaste is not recommended to remove scratches on glasses. The idea behind using toothpaste to improve scratched lenses is that the paste will wear down the coating enough to hide the scratches. However, this will only cause even more permanent scratches and will polish the scratches already on your glasses.

How to Remove Scratches From Glasses
How to Remove Scratches From Glasses
DID YOU KNOW?

Contrary to popular belief, toothpaste and baking soda do not remove scratches from your lenses and will actually damage them further.

Can you polish scratches out of glass lenses?

As aforementioned, any DIY suggestions, such as using polish to remove scratches, will only further damage the lens. Using wax is a method to try and fill in scratches, making it harder to see through them. Therefore, we do not recommend using wax or polish to remove scratches.

Can opticians remove scratches from glasses?

Unfortunately, going to an optician will get you no closer to removing scratches from prescription glasses. When a lens is damaged in such a way, the lens coating, as well as the damage to the lens itself, is permanent, and no amount of expertise will get you closer to a solution.

The best option is to get your lenses replaced and then take the necessary precautions in the future.

How to replace lenses in glasses?

To replace the lenses of your glasses, you can visit SmartBuyGlasses and explore thousands of frames at affordable prices. You can also use our Virtual Try-On tool to try on the frames digitally and order them from the comfort of your own home.

You can also visit your local optician, where they can replace the lenses in your original frame. Typically, optical stores can replace lenses if your frames are in good condition and the shape of the lenses is not complex, or you can purchase new glasses.

How to prevent scratches on glasses?

Even getting one scratch on your glasses lens can be annoying, so preventing doing so is crucial. Consider these steps for ongoing care and avoid future damage to your lenses:

  • Avoid leaving your glasses in the car in warm climates, as heat can destroy scratch-resistant layers. If your protective coatings wear off, this can put your lenses at risk of damage.
  • Store your glasses in their provided glasses case when not wearing them to avoid scratches.
  • Use the correct glasses cloth and optical spray for cleaning, and avoid using tissue or clothing. Tissue and other fabrics are harsher on lenses than you think.
  • Don’t set glasses lens-down, as surfaces can scratch them.

As enticing as the easy DIY methods may seem, there is no way to resolve this issue at home, and you run a real risk of damaging your scratched lenses even more.

As outlined above, the only real and concrete solution is to replace your lenses and protect your glasses with all the necessary steps. Our in-house opticians are available online if you have any further questions about your scratched lenses.

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How To Find Glasses Prescription

How to Get a Glasses Prescription

Where | How long does it take? | Online prescriptions | Accuracy | Prescription History | How to read | How to shop

By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Sharlene McKeeman
Sharlene McKeeman

Reviewed by

Sharlene McKeeman
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.

Read our useful guide on the different ways to get your glasses prescription.

SUMMARY

To get a new glasses prescription, you need to have an in-person eye test that usually takes about 30 minutes.
If you need a new copy of your current prescription, you can request it from your eye doctor or scan your prescription glasses online .

Technology in the eye industry is constantly evolving. Today, it is easier and more efficient than ever to get a copy of your eye prescription. Gone are the days of waiting in long lines to receive your prescription from the optician’s office.

Read on to learn more about eye prescriptions, where to get them, and how to read them.

Where can I get a copy of my eye prescription?

Your eye prescription (also known as Rx prescription) is written by an eyewear prescriber, such as an optician or optometrist. It specifies the value of parameters needed to construct and dispense corrective lenses for a patient.

It is recommended that you get an eye test from your doctor at least every two years to check the health of your eyes and if your eyesight has changed. Before buying a new pair of glasses, it is vital that your prescription is up to date.

If you have not had an eye test in recent years, consider booking an eye test with an optician before trying to obtain your current prescription.

How long does it take to get prescription glasses?

Standard in-person eye tests usually take around 30 minutes. Once your eye test is complete, your doctor will provide you with your prescription card.

If you ever misplace your card, you can call up your doctor and request a copy of your prescription.

However, there is an even quicker way to find out your eye prescription. If you simply need a retrieval of your current eye prescription from your current glasses, you can use our revolutionary technology to reveal it without leaving the house.

At SmartBuyGlasses, you can extract your current prescription in a matter of minutes from your glasses with the innovative vision testing Lens Scanner App.

By scanning your current prescription glasses, you’ll have access to your current prescription in minutes, completely free of charge.

This is perfect for individuals who are happy with their current prescription but would like to update their eyewear.

    

Can I get a copy of my eye prescription online?

Depending on the practice you attend, some opticians may be able to provide you with your eye prescription online. Following your eye test, your prescription will be registered at the optical practice where you had the eye exam.

It is a legal requirement to provide you with your prescription for glasses or contact lenses upon request. 

Both opticians and the customer benefit from being able to access prescriptions online due to convenience and time. Usually, you can visit your practice’s website to request the prescription, call them, or send an email. 

Some companies may even be able to send over prescriptions on the same day. Simply search the practice and location online to find out more about the best way to contact your optician.

DID YOU KNOW?

Getting your prescription can be quick and easy! If you are in a pinch and have your correct prescription glasses at hand, you can use our handy LensScanner tool to get your prescription details. 

How accurate are online prescription glasses?

There will be no changes made to the prescription you obtained from your optometrist, even if they publish it online, so it is 100% accurate. 

As for our Lens Scanner App, when used correctly, it can accurately reveal the power in your lenses in a matter of moments.

Please be aware that using the Lens Scanner App cannot be used for progressive lenses and is not a substitution for an eye exam.

We recommend getting an eye exam if you have noticed changes in your eyesight and to check your eye health.

Can I see my prescription history?

It may be beneficial for you to look into your eye prescription history to see the changes in your eyesight over the years. You can request your eye prescription history from your optician via phone call, email, or by visiting the branch. 

Some opticians allow you to access your prescription history online via their website, so it’s worth checking this out first.

Please note that requesting your prescription history can take longer than requesting your current prescription, as there are more details to prepare.

How to read lens prescriptions

To understand how to read your prescription, you can check out our guide to reading prescriptions or continue reading for a brief overview.

  • Generally, a prescription will include the following information: sphere power, cylinder power, axis, and ADD power.
  • Sphere power indicates how strong your prescription lenses should be to correct any near or Farsightedness. This number can range from negative numbers (for Nearsightedness) to positive numbers (for Farsightedness). The greater the number, the stronger the prescription needed to correct vision problems.
  • Cylinder power indicates if astigmatism is present and the amount of correction required by referencing a minus or plus sign and a numerical value. If this field is left blank on your prescription, it means no astigmatism is present.
  • Axis indicates the angle of your prescription lenses, expressed in degrees on a scale from 0-180. This number will usually have a small “x” placed before it to indicate that it is an axis measurement.
  • Finally, ADD power indicates how much prescription strength you need for reading and other tasks requiring near vision. This field is typically filled out if you are over the age of 40, as people typically start to need prescription lenses for seeing up close around this age.

By understanding these key elements of an eye prescription, you can discover more about your own optical health and decide which glasses are perfect for you.

glasses prescription

How to shop for glasses online

Now you’re all set! You know how to get a copy of your prescription directly from your optician online or in person, and you have more insight into how to read it.

Don’t forget to check out the Lens Scanner App to retrieve your current prescription in five minutes or less. 

In addition, you can also discover your pupillary distance (PD) with our useful online tool. Once you have your up-to-date prescription and PD, you’re ready to start shopping for a new pair of prescription  glasses from our range at SmartBuyGlasses.

If you have further questions regarding your prescription, contact our in-house opticians or learn more about eye prescriptions at the Optical Center section of our website.

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Is It Safe To Sleep With Contact Lenses?

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Contact lenses are generally designed for daytime use, so going to sleep without taking them out is not advised.
Sleeping With Contact Lenses

With endless information online, it may feel difficult to know which sources to trust and what is really safe. If you’re looking to have all of your ‘sleeping with contact lenses’ questions answered, continue reading to discover expert answers with the safest solutions.

What happens if you sleep with contacts?

The answer is based on the type of contact lens you sleep in and the duration. 

It’s important to note that sleeping with contact lenses isn’t advised by eye doctors, opticians, or eye care experts. Accidents happen, and on rare occasions, you may be fine. However, each time you sleep with contact lenses, you’re increasing your chances of developing an eye infection or potentially something worse. 

Sleeping With Contact Lenses
Sleeping With Contact Lenses
DID YOU KNOW?

If you do happen to fall asleep with your contacts in, your eyes will probably feel dehydrated when you wake up.

Our cornea is supposed to protect our eyes so we don’t get eye infections every day. However, for the cornea to do its job correctly, it must receive oxygen and be hydrated. To a certain extent, this can be blocked by contact lenses, regardless of the contact lens brand used.

Moreover, the reduction in the oxygen reaching our eyes from wearing contact lenses has a more significant effect when sleeping. When we are awake and our eyes are open, the eyes receive oxygen and hydration through blinking.

However, when we are sleeping with contact lenses in, the eyes are shut and are incredibly starved of the oxygen and hydration they need. When the cornea and eyes are starved of oxygen, the eyes go into a ‘hypoxic’ state, which significantly reduces the cornea’s rate of fighting off bacteria.

Sleeping With Contact Lenses
Sleeping With Contact Lenses

How long can you sleep with contacts in?

If they aren’t designed to wear overnight or are not extended-wear contacts, you risk damaging your eyes by sleeping in contact lenses. Whether you wear them for prescription or use coloured contacts, it’s critical to remember to take out your contact lenses before going to bed.

Don’t be tempted to take a quick nap in your contacts, either! Even one hour of sleeping in your contact lenses might harm your eyes. Some people’s eyes are more sensitive than others and react differently. It’s not worth the danger when it comes to your eyes, and experts don’t recommend sleeping in contact lenses at all, even for an hour.

If you do sleep with contact lenses in, don’t try to pull them out of your eyes right away when you start waking up. You might feel that your eyes are dehydrated or have a build-up. Blink a handful of times and allow them to naturally re-moisturize.

Sleeping With Contact Lenses
Sleeping With Contact Lenses

Before handling your contact lenses, wash your hands and carefully remove them from your eyes. If the lenses are daily contacts, dispose of them, and sanitize them adequately if they are monthly or two-week contacts.

If you struggle to remember to take your contact lenses off before going to bed, try taking them out earlier in the evening and using your prescription glasses until it is time to rest your head for the night. You can even get an extra pair of glasses to have on hand for those moments.

Sleeping With Contact Lenses
Sleeping With Contact Lenses

The best contact lenses, if any for sleeping, are extended wear lenses. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, so you should consult your optician for their best practice.

Now that you know the problems surrounding sleeping with contact lenses, take a look through our selection and choose what works for you from brands such as AcuvueAir Optix, and BioTrue!

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Are Coloured Contacts Right For You?

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By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinnette
Beck Jinnette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinnette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Whether it is for Halloween costumes, comic cosplay conventions, theatrical performances, or personal beauty reasons, there is a growing interest in decorative lenses.

People choose to wear contacts for many reasons. Besides their normal corrective function, many people wear contacts for aesthetic and cosmetic reasons. Coloured contacts, in particular, have become very popular in recent years because of their immediate ability to change appearances drastically.

Plano vs. prescription contacts

Typically, coloured contacts, also known as decorative contact lenses, are available in both prescription and plano forms: 

  • Coloured contact lenses with a prescription: Changes your eye colour and corrects your vision whether you are nearsighted, farsighted or astigmatism.
  • Plano colour contacts: Changes your eye colour with no alternation for vision correction. This type of lens is also known as non-prescription coloured contacts.

Read on to discover the benefits of wearing coloured contacts, as well as some risks you should be aware of before purchasing prescription coloured contacts.

DID YOU KNOW?
Coloured contacts are a fun way to experiment, but it is important to know all the risk factors before trying them out.

Coloured contacts types

Worn for cosmetic purposes, most coloured contact lenses you will find are designed to mimic the natural look of the coloured part of the eye, called the iris.

In general, coloured contacts come in three kinds of tints:

  • Visibility tint lens: These lenses come with a light blue or light green tint that does not affect your natural eye colour. Their primary purpose is vision correction.
  • Enhancement tint: These lenses come with a solid but translucent tint that is a little bit darker than a visibility tint. They are worn to enhance your natural eye colour. These are best suited for wearers with light-coloured eyes who want to make their natural eye colour more intense.
  • Opaque tint: These lenses are non-transparent and can change your eye colour completely. You will need this tint to change your eye appearance if you have dark-coloured eyes.

What are the most naturally coloured contacts?

From the lens collection available at SmartBuyGlasses, Solotica offers a natural look. Combining groundbreaking technology and exceptional colour opacity, their lenses can transform dark eyes into breathtaking blue, green, grey and brown. They are also available as prescription colour contact lenses too. 

Hidrocor is a popular collection because it does not have a limbal ring in the outer rim and has CE-certified, ANVISA-certified and FAA-approved natural colour contacts. Natural colours, Aquarellas and our other collections offer soft and stunning looks.

Colour contacts for light eyes

Coloured contacts with enhancement tints are great for people with light-coloured eyes because they define the edges of your iris and deepen your natural eye colour without changing your eye colour completely. If your natural eye colour is blue, and you want to experiment with different shades and still want to keep a natural look, you could try a grey or green contact lens.

Color contacts for dark eyes

If you have dark-coloured eyes and want to change your eye colour, you will have to use opaque tinted lenses to cover up your natural eye colour completely. Try a light honey brown or hazel colour for more natural tones.

Colored contact lenses: frequently asked questions

Do I need a prescription to buy coloured contacts

  • Coloured contact lenses are medical devices, so before you can buy your first pair of coloured lenses, you must have a valid eye prescription from a licensed optician.
  • Even if you want plano lenses, you must visit a vision specialist beforehand and have them write you a prescription for wearing coloured contacts.

How to know if I am buying safe contact lenses?

  • Coloured contacts are absolutely safe – as long as they are properly prescribed, worn, and cared for. 
  • You should never buy or wear coloured contacts unless purchased “over the counter” with a proper prescription and approved by a licensed optician. Decorative contacts sold in flea markets, gas stations, or beauty salons are NOT approved medical devices; you should never buy or wear them.

What are the risks of coloured contacts?

  • Coloured contact lenses can increase the risk of eye infections, your cornea getting scratched and may also cause eye damage if used incorrectly.
  • Although it sounds fun and harmless, you should never share your coloured contact lenses with friends or family. Doing so greatly increases your chance of contracting harmful eye infections.

How to wear contact lenses safely: top tips

Wearing contact lenses can improve your vision and give you a different look, but it is important to wear them correctly. Here are some top tips on how to wear contact lenses safely, including essential information about hygiene, storage, and cleaning.

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
  • Don’t wear your lenses longer than the recommended time limit.

  • Never sleep in your contact lenses.

  • Remove any makeup or dirt from your eyes before putting on lenses.

  • Use fresh solutions and clean cases when storing lenses.

  • Schedule an eye exam at least once a year to ensure everything is healthy.

Are coloured contacts safe for kids?

Halloween contact lenses are a popular choice for people of all ages who want to change their eye colour for an event or just for fun. While these lenses can be a safe and effective way to change your appearance, parents should be careful when considering costume contact lenses for their children. 

Contacts require proper care and hygiene to prevent infection and other complications, especially for kids who may not have the same level of responsibility as adults. It’s important to talk to an eye doctor before allowing your child to wear coloured contacts to ensure the lenses are safe, comfortable and properly fitted for their eyes.

How to tell if you have an eye infection from contact lenses

If you wear any type of contact lens regularly, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of infection. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, eye pain and discharge. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, remove your contacts immediately and see a doctor as soon as you can.

If you wear contact lenses, it may also cause skin irritation from inappropriate wear patterns. This health risk is greater among those wearing poorly-made colours or purchasing from unlicensed vendors. Always seek advice from a medical professional before purchasing any contact lens. If you need some quick, helpful advice, contact our online opticians for easy access to expert help.

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Dominant Eye Test

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Which is your dominant eye, left or right? We'll explain how you can tell in this article.
Dominant eye test

At some point, you may have heard the terms “dominant eye” or “ocular dominance,” but what exactly do they mean, and how can you determine your dominant eye? Since we usually use both eyes at once, having a dominant eye is often an overlooked trait.

Below are some basics on how to find your dominant eye and when eye dominance can make a difference. 

How to tell which eye is dominant

A dominant eye doesn’t mean better vision but rather guiding the other better because of preference. Your dominant eye provides slightly more input to the visual cortex of your brain and relays the information more accurately, especially object location.

The visual cortex is the brain region that receives and processes information from the retina. 

Eye dominance can vary from person to person. While someone may have a strong degree of dominance in one eye, another may have an eye with a lesser difference in dominance. For most people, eye dominance won’t impact day-to-day living and is more of a curiosity. 

DID YOU KNOW?

It is possible, but very uncommon, for a person to have no dominant eye.

The eye dominance test

If you’re curious, there are several techniques to determine your dominant eye. Below are two basic tests, called “sighting tests,” which can be done quickly and easily.

For the first test:

  1. Extend your arms in front of you, with your palms facing away from you, bring your hands together, crossing your thumbs and forefingers to form a small triangular opening.
  2. With both eyes open, choose a small object in the distance (about 15-20 feet away) and center this object as you look through the small opening. 
  3. Close one eye at a time. When you close one eye, the object will be stationary. When you close the other eye, the object should disappear from the triangle or jump to one side.

If the object does not move as you look through with one eye, that is your dominant eye. For example, if you look through the opening at the object with your right eye open and left eye closed, and the object is still centered, you are right-eye dominant. 

For the second test:

  1. Extend one arm in front of you with your thumb or index finger on that hand in an upright position. 
  2. With both eyes open, focus on an object in the distance. 
  3. Move your arm so that you superimpose your thumb on that object (it is normal if your thumb partially disappears). 
  4. Alternate closing one eye at a time. 

The eye that keeps your thumb directly in front of the focused object while the other eye is closed is your dominant eye. 

If you still can’t tell, ask your eye doctor at your next eye exam. Some studies have shown that sighting tests, though generally accurate, can be affected by handedness and other non-visual factors. They argue that non-sighting tests are more precise in determining eye dominance.

In these tests, both eyes are kept open and visual stimuli are presented to each eye separately using special optical devices. These tests can only be performed in specialized vision clinics or research facilities.

Eye dominance and handedness

While eye dominance and handedness are not directly related, they may be associated, but it is impossible to predict eye dominance based on handedness alone. Studies suggest that most of the global population is right-handed, but only a third have a dominant right eye.

Research has shown that the odds of a right-handed person being right-eye dominant are high, approximately 2.5 times greater than the odds of that person being left-eye dominant.

Is it possible not to have a dominant eye?

Most people have a dominant eye, but there are rare cases when neither eye is dominant. Some people have mixed or alternating ocular dominance, meaning one eye is dominant for certain tasks while the other is preferred for different functions. There is a spectrum of degree when it comes to eye dominance.

Some people may have a significant difference between their eyes, while others may have a minimal difference.

Dominant eye in sports, shooting, and photography

You may notice your dominant or preferred eye when you use a camera, microscope, or telescope. Understanding which is your dominant eye can improve your performance in certain sports and activities, especially any that require accurate aim.

Minor adjustments to the position of your head or hands can help put your dominant eye in a better spot, allowing you to level up during leisure time or competitions.

Sports

In some sports, taking full advantage of your dominant eye is fundamental and requires positioning your head in a way that allows you to do so. Golf and baseball are two examples in which this is necessary. In golf, certain strokes must be perfectly aligned and require turning your head fully to use and benefit from your dominant eye.

While batting in baseball, your head must be turned enough for your dominant eye to see the pitch’s rotation, position, and speed.

Shooting sports

Some people experience crossed dominance, where their dominant eye and hand are not on the same side. This can cause problems during shooting, but being aware of this can help you make adjustments to improve accuracy.

To shoot and hit moving targets, you should aim with your dominant eye; if you use your non-dominant eye, your target won’t be in the right place. If possible, shooting with the hand that matches your dominant eye is recommended.

Another way to compensate for cross-dominance is to keep both eyes open until right before you take your shot. You can use 100% of your peripheral vision and depth perception with both eyes open. 

Photography 

Knowing your dominant eye can also aid in taking better photos. When looking through the viewfinder of a camera with your dominant eye, you will get a more accurate preview and alignment of the shot.

If you’re using your non-dominant eye, you may notice that specific details will end up displaced or outside the frame in the final image.

Eye dominance problems

For the vast majority, eye dominance has no bearing on day-to-day living. Generally, the term dominant eye is used to describe the preferred eye in typical visual conditions where both eyes function well as a team. In some cases, dominant eye is used to refer to the normal functioning eye in cases of strabismus or amblyopia.

While not the only cause, a strong dominant eye can sometimes trigger amblyopia or lazy eye. As one eye relays stronger visual signals than the other, it causes the non-dominant eye to become weaker over time.

This can be treated early by patching the dominant eye in hopes of strengthening the non-dominant one. There are also eye exercises that can be done to help improve vision.

Eye dominance

Your dominant eye shouldn’t be an obstacle on a daily basis. It’s beneficial to be aware of this as it can help in certain activities, but as long as your vision is aligned and clear, it shouldn’t matter which eye is dominant.

Whether to improve performance or out of curiosity, try our easy at-home tests to discover your dominant eye. If you have any questions or concerns about your dominant or non-dominant eye, visit our Optical Centre and speak to one of our opticians online today

Conjunctivitis: Self-Care and Causes

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By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinnette
Beck Jinnette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinnette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Pink eye is the common name for conjunctivitis, an eye infection. Learn about its causes and treatments in this article.
Conjunctivitis self-care

What is pink eye or conjunctivitis?

Itchy eyes, watery discharge or pinkness in the eyes? You might just have conjunctivitis. Commonly known as ‘pink eye’ because of the characteristic colour that appears in the eye, conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the thin, clear covering of the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids (conjunctiva).

But don’t fret. It’s a very common infection and easily treated. Read on to find out more about this common infection – and how to avoid catching it in the first place.

Different types of conjunctivitis

There are three types of conjunctivitis; bacterial, viral and allergic. Before we look at the differences between these three, let’s look at the similarities. All three generally develop when you have a weakened immune system, such as a cold (virus) or a sore throat (virus or bacteria). All three are highly contagious. 

Finally, although it is helpful to read guides like these to try and identify which type you may have before seeing an eye doctor, it is vital not to self-diagnose and very important that you seek medical help on the first symptoms of pink eye.

DID YOU KNOW?

The chlorine in swimming pools can irritate the eyes and lead to conjunctivitis.

Bacterial conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria that spreads to your eyes from your respiratory system or your skin. You can also catch it if you rub your eyes when your hands aren’t clean, use eye makeup (mascara) that has been contaminated or share other things that your eyes touch (like a towel) with someone with conjunctivitis.  Contact lenses can also be a vector for carrying conjunctiva mucous. Best practice is to always use new (daily lenses) or clean lenses (reusable) and washed hands to insert them. Whether you have contracted bacterial conjunctivitis or not, you should throw out any contact lenses after use. In the case of pink eye, take a break from contacts until it clears up completely. Once your eyes are back to full health, it’s safe to use contacts again, but be sure to use a new, fresh pair.

Viral pink eye

Conversely, viral pink eye is caused by viruses like the herpes simplex virus. You can catch it when someone who is infected sneezes or coughs near you and the droplets come into contact with your eyes.

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis happens when your eyes come into contact with pollen and become red, itchy, and watery. It is an eye inflammation caused by an allergic reaction and is normally a short-term condition in comparison to the former two.

How conjuntivitis is contracted
How conjuntivitis is contracted

Conjunctivitis self-care treatments

Conjunctivitis is easy to treat and most cases usually clear up by themselves in 1-2 weeks. You can use medically prescribed antibiotics and eye drops to help clear up a bacterial infection quicker than waiting for it to heal itself.

To help ease discomfort while the infection clears, you can also use lubricating eye drops to prevent your eyes from getting too dry, put cold ice packs against your eyes to soothe swelling and clean the discharge from your eyes with a wet cloth or tissue.

It is important to note that these home care recommendations aren’t a replacement for medical treatment. They are extra tips to help ease discomfort during your healing journey but should not be used instead of a doctor’s recommendation or prescribed medication.

Bacterial conjunctivitis home care

Bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as bacterial pink eye, is a highly contagious condition that affects the membrane lining the outer surface of the eye. 

While antibiotic eye drops are the most effective treatment option, there are a few home remedies that can also provide additional relief. For example, normal over-the-counter drops can help with itching and provide temporary relief. Look for “lubricating” drops or “artificial tears”.

Other remedies include the use of warm compresses to reduce inflammation, keeping the affected eye clean and avoiding shared items such as towels or pillows. However, please note that home remedies should not be relied upon solely and that medical attention should be sought if symptoms persist or worsen

Viral pink eye home care

Viral pink eye, also known as viral conjunctivitis, can be a bothersome and highly contagious condition. While antibiotic treatment is the best course of action for healing the virus, some home remedies can relieve symptoms and aid this healing process along with medication.

For instance, placing a cool compress over your affected eye for 10-15 minutes can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. 

Another effective remedy is applying aloe vera gel, which is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, of course, keeping your hands clean and avoiding touching your eyes can help prevent the spread of the infection.

Allergic pink eye home care

Allergic pinkeye, also known as allergic conjunctivitis, is a condition caused by an allergic reaction such as hay fever, resulting in the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Symptoms include redness, itching and watery eyes.

In addition to any medical care you receive, there are home remedies that can help control the allergic reaction and alleviate symptoms. Some of these remedies include using a cold compress with a fresh cotton ball and clean water, avoiding allergens and rinsing the eyes with saline solution regularly.

It is always best to visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, but these remedies can provide some relief in the meantime.

How to treat Allergic conjunctivitis
How to treat Allergic conjunctivitis

When to seek medical care

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of pink eye, such as redness, itching and green or white discharge from the eye, it’s important to seek medical care. A medical professional can diagnose pink eye and recommend the appropriate treatment, whether it be prescription eye drops, medication or ointments. It’s especially important to seek medical care if you wear contact lenses, as pink eye can cause significant complications and may even lead to vision loss if left untreated. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider if you suspect you have pink eye.

How to avoid reinfection

Once your pink eye has cleared up, it’s important to avoid reinfecting yourself. Make sure you throw out any eye makeup or applicators you used when you had conjunctivitis and get rid of disposable contact lenses and solutions if you used them during your infection. 

Thoroughly disinfect hard contact lenses, eyeglasses and your lens cases – all three can harbour bacteria. You can read more about how to properly clean these items in our helpful guides available at our Optical Centre.

What Are Mirrored Sunglasses?

What Are Mirrored Sunglasses?

By Klaudia Pasternak
Reviewed by Maria Horan
Maria Horan

Reviewed by

Maria Horan
Maria holds a BSc Honours in Ophthalmic Dispensing and has over 17 years of optical experience.
Learn all about mirrored sunglasses and their pros and cons in this comprehensive guide.
Man wearing mirrored sunglasses

If you’re someone who loves to express your style while ensuring practicality, mirrored sunglasses could be just what you’re looking for. 

In this article, we’ll cover what mirrored sunglasses are, when to wear them, their pros and cons and if mirrored sunglasses come in various lens colours. So first things first, what are mirrored sunglasses? 

Mirrored sunglasses are a type of eyewear that features lenses with a reflective coating on the outside. This coating gives the lenses a mirror-like appearance, helping them to reduce glare as more light bounces off them compared to standard tinted lenses.

The popularity of mirrored sunglasses originates from their aesthetic appeal. They exude a feeling of modernity while also offering a sense of mystery and intrigue. 

Because of the interplay of light, they can create a fascinating visual impact, boosting the wearer’s style and making a bold statement. 

Looks aside, mirrored sunglasses have also become a staple accessory for many people thanks to the practical advantages of their reflective quality. 

Benefits of mirrored sunglasses

Mirrored sunglasses, often known as reflective sunglasses, have numerous advantages in addition to their fashionable appeal. Here are some other benefits which mirror sunglasses provide:

Mirrored sunglasses

Enhanced contrast

Their mirror coating can enhance contrast, vision clarity and reduce glare. This feature can be particularly beneficial in snowy environments, where the vast white surfaces can create blinding glare, affecting safety.

UV protection

While mirrored sunglasses prevent excess light from hitting your eyes, they are also great at protecting against harmful UV rays

By blocking harmful UV rays, mirrored glasses contribute to maintaining good eye health over time. They can help prevent conditions like photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea), which can occur after spending prolonged periods in intense sunlight without proper eye protection against UV light. 

Style versatility

Mirror shades come in a wide range of frame styles, colours and lens tints. From sporty, athletic-inspired frames to classic sunglasses silhouettes, mirrored lenses can be worn for any occasion. 

Increased privacy

The mirrored coating on the lenses acts as a one-way mirror, meaning people can’t see your eyes while you can still see out clearly. Regular sunglasses obscure your eyes to people on the outside too, but mirrored lenses give wearers a greater sense of privacy.

Benefits of mirrored sunglasses
DID YOU KNOW?

Mirrored sunglasses are regularly worn by astronauts to protect their eyes from intense glare and harmful radiation in space.

Downsides of mirrored sunglasses

Although mirrored sunglasses provide several advantages, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of when buying a pair of sunglasses with mirrored lenses.

Maintenance

In comparison to standard sunglasses, mirrored sunglasses demand additional care. Because of their reflective coating, they need more frequent cleaning as they’re more prone to being marked by smudges and fingerprints. Some mirror sunglasses may have a scratch-resistant coating, although it’s still important to take extra care of them.

You can do so by always cleaning them with a microfiber cloth to remove smudges, as using tissues, towels or clothing can further harm your lenses. When not wearing them, keep them in a protective case to avoid scratches.

Cost

Mirrored sunglasses can also be more expensive than regular tinted sunglasses due to the additional manufacturing process required to apply the reflective coating.

Colour distortion

Mirrored glasses can also sometimes distort the perception of colours. The reflective coating, while effectively reducing glare and enhancing visual comfort in bright conditions, can alter the appearance of objects and surroundings by reflecting different hues onto the lenses. This distortion of colours may affect activities that require accurate colour perception.

Fine detail and contrast

When wearing mirrored sunglasses, less light reaches your eyes, which can mean that you don’t see fine details as clearly. Depending on the colour of the lenses, this can also affect contrast. 

Mirrored vs polarised sunglasses

Mirrored and polarised lenses cater to diverse needs and preferences, each offering unique benefits. Mirrored lenses boast a reflective coating that deflects light away from the eyes, reducing glare and enhancing visual clarity, making them perfect for sunny outdoor activities

On the other hand, polarised sunglasses are designed to reduce glare from horizontal surfaces like water or pavement, improving visual clarity and reducing eye strain.

So, choosing between mirrored and polarised sunglasses often depends on the specific activities and environments you anticipate encountering.

Women wearing mirrored sunglasses

When to wear mirrored sunglasses

As mirror sunglasses reflect glare, they’re an excellent choice for outdoor activities. Here are a few situations in which they come in handy:

Beach activities

When gearing up for beach activities, a pair of sunglasses with reflective lenses emerge as the perfect accessory.

They’re excellent at handling glare from the sand and water, enhancing your beach adventures or any water sports. 

Outdoor sports

Whether you’re cycling through rugged terrain, shredding down snowy slopes or trekking along sun-drenched trails, mirrored sunglasses will be highly beneficial. Their ability to reflect light rather than absorb it ensures reduced eye strain, making them a must-have for your outdoor pursuits.

Daytime driving

When you’re behind the wheel, glinting sunlight can be a nuisance as it bounces off the road, car hoods, LCD screens located in your car or other vehicles. 

Mirror sunglasses can significantly reduce glare from these reflective surfaces and protect your eyes, providing clearer vision and enhancing safety on the road.

Do mirrored lenses come in different colours?

When it comes to selecting the perfect pair of sunglasses, mirrored lenses stand out as a popular choice. However, a common question arises: Do mirrored lenses come in different colours? The answer is yes. Here is a brief overview of the options available. 

Different colours of mirrored lenses

Silver lenses

Silver mirrored lenses typically provide true colour perception and natural contrast. They’re suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, making them a classic and versatile choice for everyday wear.

Green lenses

Green mirrored lenses offer excellent contrast and depth perception while minimising colour distortion. These would specifically be beneficial if you’re playing golf or going fishing as they provide better contrast between the surfaces and objects beneath.

Red lenses

Red mirrored lenses are extremely popular as they offer a brighter view and reduce eye fatigue.They are particularly favoured among snow sports enthusiasts and runners, who often opt for them during early morning runs to benefit from their brightening effect which enhances visibility and reduces eye fatigue.

Blue lenses

Blue mirrored lenses are popular for their stylish appearance and ability to reduce glare. They also provide a soothing effect on the eyes, making them a fashionable and functional choice. Because of this aspect, these are particularly beneficial if you enjoy outdoor sports such as sailing or cycling. 

Gold lenses

Gold reflective lenses provide a warm, soothing tint that enhances contrast and depth perception. They offer excellent glare reduction and are particularly effective in bright sunlight. 

As a result, they are perfect for activities like driving or hiking, where varying light conditions demand optimal vision. Additionally, gold lenses also make a fashionable statement as they add a touch of glamour to eyewear choices. 

Why should you go for mirrored sunglasses?

A pair of mirrored sunglasses is an ideal option for individuals seeking something more from their eyewear. Their trendy and modern design not only catches the eye but also helps to keep your eyes safe from UV rays, and shade them from harsh glare and uncomfortable levels of brightness on sunny – or even overcast – days.   

Whether you enjoy being outdoors or simply love the fashion appeal of mirrored sunglasses, getting a pair of these sunglasses is a decision that you’re unlikely to regret. 

If you’ve got questions about mirrored sunglasses or anything related to eyecare and eyewear, you can speak to one of our certified opticians via the link at the top of the page.

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Tinted Glasses

Ask our opticians

Ask now
By Emma Moletto
Reviewed by Sharlene Mckeeman FBDO
Sharlene is a qualified dispensing optician with over 7 years optical experience, a member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians and registered with the General Optical Council.
With tinted eyeglasses and sunglasses, you can get different benefits to better your vision and maintain your eye health.
people wearing tinted glasses and smiling
SUMMARY

The term tinted glasses refers to eyewear with different coloured lenses, such as blue, green, brown, or yellow.

They help reduce glare and improve contrast and visibility in various conditions.

Today’s eyewear comes in a variety of different colours and with many different features and add-ons. For those with a more specific use in mind for their eyewear, it is worth checking the options for tinted lenses

Besides the fact that there are multiple types of eyeglass tinting to opt for, they all have unique benefits that they bring with various suggested uses. 

What are tinted glasses?

Tinted glasses are simply a type of sunglasses or eyeglasses lens. They are created by coating a UV-blocking lens with different tints: blue, green, brown, yellow etc. 

Tinted lenses are both a fashion statement and a great way to protect your eyes against harmful UV rays and enhance the contrast.

There are two types of tinted eyewear, solid and gradient tint. Solid-tinted lenses are the most popular and have one colour applied to the entire lens. 

Gradient lenses (not to be confused with photochromic lenses) usually transition from a plain colour at the top towards a clear lens at the bottom of the frame. 

Unlike photochromic lenses, the lens coating stays gradual and does not change according to the sunlight.

What are tinted glasses for?

Deciding what colour tint is best for sunglasses can change depending on your lifestyle and what you will do while wearing your sunglasses. 

Lighter tints can be great to add a little style to your look, while darker tints can provide more visual comfort in different light and weather conditions.

Green-tinted sunglasses

Green lenses are considered the most protective type, as this tint blocks blue light and UV rays, reducing eye strain and glare in bright environments. These tinted lenses are great for:

  • Rainy or sunny weather conditions
  • Golf  and  tennis
  • Outdoor activities
GREEN Tinted Glasses
GREEN Tinted Glasses

Blue/purple-tinted sunglasses

Blue and purple-tinted glasses improve colour perception and object contours. They offer great protection from reflective surfaces like water and snow. The features of these tinted eyeglasses are ideal for:

  • Eliminating sun glare
  • Misty, foggy, and snowy weather conditions
  • Hockey
  • Cricket
BLUE Tinted Glasses
BLUE Tinted Glasses

Red/pink-tinted sunglasses

Red or pink lenses soothe the eyes as they block blue light and minimise eye strain and glare from screens. They can also improve depth perception and enhance details. When are they suitable to wear?

  • Driving / Racing
  • Skiing  and other winter sports
RED Tinted Glasses
RED Tinted Glasses

Dark amber, copper, or brown-tinted sunglasses

Dark amber, copper or brown lenses are usually indicated for people with myopia, as they can help enhance contrast and clarity. 

These lens colours also provide UV protection and can help judge distance in hazy and foggy conditions. The activities that pair well with these tints include:

  • Driving
  • Fishing
  • High altitude sports
BROWN Tinted Glasses
BROWN Tinted Glasses

Grey and black-tinted sunglasses

Grey and black lenses are a fantastic option for everyday use and work on bright and overcast days. This option of coloured lenses provides accurate colour perception while offering the most significant light reduction, reducing eyestrain. 

You should grab a pair if you are into the following:

  • Water sports
  • Deep-sea fishing
  • Very sunny conditions
  • Baseball
BLACK Tinted Glasses
BLACK Tinted Glasses

Yellow-tinted glasses

Yellow tints filter out blue light and help the eyes pick out soft colours, which is beneficial in low-light conditions such as indoor sports and overcast days. Ideal activities for this colour of tinted sunglasses are:

  • Hiking in shaded areas
  • Mountain biking
  • Indoor use
  • Driving
YELLOW Tinted Glasses

Are tinted lenses worth it?

The importance of eyeglass tinting becomes evident after using the correct lenses for your activities. Tinted lenses provide adjustments that help you go through your day with ease. 

For example, they equip wearers with the best alteration to stay safe when enjoying their favourite pastimes and sports. 

  • They can help with photophobia, providing visual comfort to light-sensitive individuals
  • They can be used indoors and outdoors for better visibility. Tinted lenses can be great both outside as protection from the sun’s UV light as well as inside to safeguard your eyes from the blue light emitted by digital devices
  • Style and fashion options
  • More affordable than polarised sunglasses
  • Reduce visual stress 
benefits of tinted glasses
benefits of tinted glasses

What are the disadvantages of tinted lenses?

Tinted eyeglasses and sunglasses also have a few downsides worth noting:

  • They can sometimes cause colour distortion
  • No advanced glare protection: Tinted lenses do not reduce glare/horizontal reflection
disadvantages of tinted glasses
disadvantages of tinted glasses

What is the difference between tinted and polarised lenses?

The main difference between polarised and tinted lenses is that polarisation reduces glare to the minimum.

Polarised lenses protect your eyes from UVA or UVB radiation; they also cut out horizontal light reflected from surfaces that create a distracting glare, making it difficult to see. Polarised sunglasses also enhance colour perception.

Moreover, polarisation is a filter integrated directly into the lens material, while the tints applied to glasses and sunglasses are an additional add-on.

Overall, polarised lenses remain a great option for anyone who spends a considerable amount of time outdoors, particularly on the water, where they can drastically improve comfort and safety.

DID YOU KNOW?

Tinting is an add-on added to your lenses, while polarisation is a filter integrated into the lens material. Tinted sunglasses are great for reducing brightness and UV rays, but they don’t necessarily eliminate harsh glare like polarised sunglasses can.

Should I try tinted lenses?

Glasses and sunglasses are not just fashion accessories; depending on what tint you choose, you can get different benefits to better your vision and maintain your eye health.

At SmartBuyGlasses, you can combine your prescription or plano lenses with grey, brown and green tints (even in different gradients) to match them with your needs and activities.

If you’re looking for guidance on adding a pair of tinted glasses to your wardrobe and are unsure where to start, talk to your eye doctor or our online team of certified opticians. They can help narrow your options to match your budget, needs and lifestyle. 

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Thin Glasses Frames – Are They Right for You?

By Dominique Bowen
Reviewed by Beck Jinnette
Beck Jinnette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinnette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.
Finding it challenging to decide which glasses frames to wear next? This guide will help.
rectangular thin frame glasses
Thought thin glasses frames were strictly reserved for older generations? Think again. Among fashion-forward men and women, thin-frame glasses are now linked with a sophisticated, elegant aesthetic.

Advantages of thin glasses frames

There are a few benefits to choosing thin glasses frames. Here are just some of them. 

Comfort

Glasses with thin frames have a range of advantages, the most appealing being comfort. When you have a light frame material, your glasses weigh less, meaning a more comfortable experience.

No nose bridge imprint

Say goodbye to that unsightly nose bridge imprint! You know the one. Removing your eyewear shouldn’t have you feeling self-conscious about the mark left by nose pads.

Fortunately, with thin glasses frames you can be reassured that you are much less likely to experience this issue.

The minimal force at the points of contact between your face and glasses can make a big difference over a whole day of wearing your specs.

If you have a high prescription, you may still experience added weight on your nose, so this is something to consider when looking at thin frame glasses.

model wearing thin frame glasses
model wearing thin frame glasses

Snug fit

Continuously nudging your eyeglasses back up the bridge of your nose? Nudge no more. Thinner frames lend themselves to a closer fit on your face. 

Coupled with the lightweight, slim design of thin frame eyeglasses, you no longer need to deal with them sliding down your nose. 

Even those with thick lenses can enjoy this benefit. Thanks to technological advancements, it is easier to find lenses that fit your strong prescription needs and still offer sleek, thin lenses. 

However, if, for example, you have -7.00 prescription in a 1.74 lens index, your glasses overall would still be thicker and heavier.

Do thin frames suit you?

Thin glasses frames offer a distinct look, and the benefit of lightweight comfort. Consider the below points when deciding whether they should be your next pair.

Give it personality

The right pair of eyeglasses needs to tick the function and style boxes for every wearer. Especially if you wear yours regularly, they should complement your look.

If you’re after a bold aesthetic, don’t shy away from these frames on account of their narrowness. Play with colour and materials to make your look stylish, while still enjoying the lightweight design.

Face shape

Determining which face shape you have is useful to help you narrow down the types of frames you should consider. Oval, square, round and heart… all of these face shapes have an ideal thin glasses frame pairing.

You can use our convenient face shape guide to see which category you fall into, as well as some tips for each face type.

infographic showing face shapes
infographic showing face shapes

What about your lens prescription?

Your lens prescription will have a role to play in the frames you wear. For each prescription, there is a recommended lens index. 

The lens index indicates how light refracts through a lens, and in conjunction with your prescription, indicates the thickness; the higher the index, the thinner and lighter the lens can be made.

With a low index, your choice of eyeglass frames is narrowed down because your lenses are thicker, requiring the right frames to comfortably fit into. 

With a high index, you may find you have more options to choose from, or could even go with a rimless option.

Finding the lightest weight frames

So, we already know that thin frame glasses are naturally more lightweight than their thicker framed counterparts. 

You can also explore different materials, like metallic or acetate, to lighten the weight of your glasses even more.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel thin metal glasses frames have the advantage of being durable, strong, non-corrosive, and tend to be more affordable than some other popular metal materials like aluminium.

Flexon

Flexon is a popular choice for those with an active lifestyle. It’s a titanium alloy, and because it’s able to return to its original shape after being bent or twisted, its flexibility is suited to those who spend their time out and about. 

Constantly bending and snapping your glasses? Flexon could be a good material for your frames.

Titanium

Strong and resistant to corrosion, titanium is another popular option for those who want their thin metal glasses frames to last. 

If you have sensitive skin, titanium could be a smart choice if you want a metallic frame; its hypoallergenic, so it won’t irritate your skin.

DID YOU KNOW?

Titanium has evolved into one of the most desirable materials for all types of items.

Acetate

If a metallic frame isn’t for you, you can experiment with colors by choosing acetate. Ideal for men and women who want to keep their look simple yet fashionable, these lightweight frames offer a sophisticated choice. 

Experiment with different colours and finishes for a style that suits you.

cat eye thin glasses frames
cat eye thin glasses frames

Balance practicality with style

Choosing eyeglass frames can be challenging when you have such a variety of styles to shop from. 

Now that you know about the different materials and colours to choose from, you can browse with confidence knowing that a pair of thin frame glasses allows you to enjoy the benefits of practicality while staying stylish.

Still need that extra confirmation about whether a pair suits you? Try out our easy-to-use Virtual Try-On tool

Your Ultimate Guide to Contact Lens Brands

Ask our opticians

Ask now

Contact Lens Brands

Choosing your brand | Contact lens types | Brands | Best Contact Lenses | Does contact lens brand matter? | Changing contact lens

By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinnette
Beck Jinnette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinnette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.

Read our helpful guide to discover more about the different contact lens brands on the market.

Millions of people opt for contact lenses every day over prescription glasses. Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses placed on the eye’s surface (aka “Cornea”) to correct your vision. They’re typically transparent and unnoticeable. However, they also come in various colors that can change your look while providing the same benefits.

How do I choose the right brand?

If you are a first-time contact lens wearer, you may feel overwhelmed by all the contact lens brands and available options. Luckily, you will not have to worry about the options available as contact lenses are fitted by your eye doctor. This includes a thorough eye examination to identify your visual impairment and overall health. So you can decide what the most suitable style for you is. 

A physician may also advise you about the replacement schedule and brand. Following this, you can take a look at our quick and easy guide to help you understand the breakdown of major contact lens brands out there.

What are the two types of contact lenses?

Contact lenses are either hard or soft. Hard contact lenses are more durable but are more difficult to adjust to. On the other hand, soft lenses are typically more comfortable to wear and take less time to get used to.

Please read our guide below before you buy contact lenses online to be sure to purchase the pair that matches your optician’s prescription.

 

What brands of contacts are there?

Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson is a leader in contact lens technology and was the first company to invent the fantastic silicone hydrogel material that is now being implemented in almost all contact lenses on the market. 


Johnson & Johnson is most well-known for introducing Acuvue contacts, the world’s #1 prescription contact lens brand. In fact, Acuvue was the first company to present and sell daily disposable contact lenses. They offer a wide range of options for contact lens wearers with different wear time preferences and even toric lenses for astigmatism. If you are looking to buy contact lens brands for astigmatism, consider the following:

Acuvue

Bausch and Lomb

Another famous manufacturer of contact lenses is Bausch & Lomb. They offer three great contact lens brands. 

BioTrue is a fantastic contact lens brand for dry eyes. Their spherical daily disposable contact lenses will keep your eyes hydrated all day. In particular, Soflens and PureVision offer a wide range of options, including special multifocal contact lenses and toric lenses for astigmatism, as well as different wear-time preferences.

BioTrue

Soflens

PureVision

CooperVision

In recent years, CooperVision has made its way to the top by bringing some of the highest-quality contact lenses to the market. CooperVision has contact lens brands that will match your eye’s unique conditions, from toric to multifocal, and even aspherical lenses. 

They have a wide variety of contact lens brands, such as Biofinity, Clariti, and Proclear, so you can buy contact lenses that are best for you. CooperVision also has a wide range of wear-time options that make buying your favorite contacts in bulk easy.

Biofinity

Proclear

Clariti

Alcon

Alcon, which began as a modest ophthalmology shop in 1945, has become the second-largest division of Novartis, one of the world’s most successful and respected healthcare firms. 

Alcon has four recognizable contact lens brands that produce a wide range of contact lenses, including toric, spherical, and silicone hydrogel lenses. Two of Alcon’s brands, Air Optix and Freshlook, offer colored contact lenses for a fun twist.

AirOptix

Dailies

Freshlook

DID YOU KNOW?

There are many types of contact lens brands available for different needs, but your optometrist will always prescribe you the best for your eye issue.

What is the best contact lens brand?

If you already wear contact lenses, you probably have a favorite brand of lenses that you stick to. If you’re considering the switch from glasses to contacts, you’ll undoubtedly want to learn more about each of the main brands.

Acuvue is one of the most popular and highly recommended contact lens brands on the market. They manufacture a wide range of extremely comfortable lenses. If you’re searching for a well-known and well-respected lens brand, Acuvue is likely to be recommended to you by your doctor.

Other popular and highly recommended contact lens brands include Dailies, Air Optix, Biofinity, and Soflens. With so many brands to choose from, it’s always important to research and speak to an optician to find the right pair for you. Remember, you don’t need to worry about brands as your Eye Care Professional is going to fit you with the correct lenses for your eyes.

Does contact lens brand matter?

When it comes to contact lenses, different brands may have different levels of comfort and convenience for specific needs, so be sure to consult with your eye doctor before purchasing contact lenses.

It is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices and must be prescribed by a qualified eye care professional. By working with your eye doctor, you can ensure you get the contact lenses that best match your vision correction needs and lifestyle. Your eye doctor can also provide guidance on contact lens safety, care, and wear to help keep your eyes healthy.

Ultimately, contact lens brand does matter. With the right contact lenses, you will be able to enjoy clearer vision and improved comfort. Put your mind at ease by researching the various brands available so you can be sure to understand everything that your doctor recommends in your contact lens prescription.

Can you change contact lens brand?

It’s common for a friend or family member to recommend their lens brand since they know they’re comfortable. However, keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another.

Before switching contact lenses, you’ll need a new fitting before, even if the contacts are the same brand. This is because different contact lenses have different curves and dimeters which alter the fit. Remember to always ask your optician before changing contact lens brand.

 There are so many contact lens choices available at SmartBuyGlasses. If you have any questions about which contact lens brand is best for you, don’t hesitate to ask one of our certified online opticians.

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Contact Lens Brands

Choosing your brand | Contact lens types | Brands | Best Contact Lenses | Does contact lens brand matter? | Changing contact lens

By Anna MacGabhann
Reviewed by Beck Jinette
Beck Jinette

Reviewed by

Beck Jinette
Beck has over 17 years of experience in eye care, holding her Certificate IV in Dispensing in Australia.

Millions of people opt for contact lenses every day over prescription glasses. Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses placed on the eye’s surface (aka “Cornea”) to correct your vision. They’re typically transparent and unnoticeable. However, they also come in various colors that can change your look while providing the same benefits.

How do I choose the right brand?

If you are a first-time contact lens wearer, you may feel overwhelmed by all the contact lens brands and available options. Luckily, you will not have to worry about the options available as contact lenses are fitted by your eye doctor. This includes a thorough eye examination to identify your visual impairment and overall health. So you can decide what the most suitable style for you is. 

A physician may also advise you about the replacement schedule and brand. Following this, you can take a look at our quick and easy guide to help you understand the breakdown of major contact lens brands out there.

What are the two types of contact lenses?

Contact lenses are either hard or soft. Hard contact lenses are more durable but are more difficult to adjust to. On the other hand, soft lenses are typically more comfortable to wear and take less time to get used to.

Please read our guide below before you buy contact lenses online to be sure to purchase the pair that matches your optician’s prescription.

What brands of contacts are there?

Contact lenses are either hard or soft. Hard contact lenses are more durable but are more difficult to adjust to. On the other hand, soft lenses are typically more comfortable to wear and take less time to get used to.

Please read our guide below before you buy contact lenses online to be sure to purchase the pair that matches your optician’s prescription.

 

Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson is a leader in contact lens technology and was the first company to invent the fantastic silicone hydrogel material that is now being implemented in almost all contact lenses on the market. 


Johnson & Johnson is most well-known for introducing Acuvue contacts, the world’s #1 prescription contact lens brand. In fact, Acuvue was the first company to present and sell daily disposable contact lenses. They offer a wide range of options for contact lens wearers with different wear time preferences and even toric lenses for astigmatism. If you are looking to buy contact lens brands for astigmatism, consider the following:

DID YOU KNOW?
There are many types of contact lens brands available for different needs, but your optometrist will always prescribe you the best for your eye issue.

Acuvue

Bausch and Lomb

Another famous manufacturer of contact lenses is Bausch & Lomb. They offer three great contact lens brands. 

BioTrue is a fantastic contact lens brand for dry eyes. Their spherical daily disposable contact lenses will keep your eyes hydrated all day. In particular, Soflens and PureVision offer a wide range of options, including special multifocal contact lenses and toric lenses for astigmatism, as well as different wear-time preferences.

Biotrue

Soflens

PureVision

CooperVision

In recent years, CooperVision has made its way to the top by bringing some of the highest-quality contact lenses to the market. CooperVision has contact lens brands that will match your eye’s unique conditions, from toric to multifocal, and even aspherical lenses. 

They have a wide variety of contact lens brands, such as Biofinity, Clariti, and Proclear, so you can buy contact lenses that are best for you. CooperVision also has a wide range of wear-time options that make buying your favorite contacts in bulk easy.

Biofinity

Proclear

Clariti

Alcon

Alcon, which began as a modest ophthalmology shop in 1945, has become the second-largest division of Novartis, one of the world’s most successful and respected healthcare firms. 

Alcon has four recognizable contact lens brands that produce a wide range of contact lenses, including toric, spherical, and silicone hydrogel lenses. Two of Alcon’s brands, Air Optix and Freshlook, offer colored contact lenses for a fun twist.

Air Optix

Dailies

Freshlook

What is the best contact lens brand?

If you already wear contact lenses, you probably have a favorite brand of lenses that you stick to. If you’re considering the switch from glasses to contacts, you’ll undoubtedly want to learn more about each of the main brands.

Acuvue is one of the most popular and highly recommended contact lens brands on the market. They manufacture a wide range of extremely comfortable lenses. If you’re searching for a well-known and well-respected lens brand, Acuvue is likely to be recommended to you by your doctor.

Other popular and highly recommended contact lens brands include Dailies, Air Optix, Biofinity, and Soflens. With so many brands to choose from, it’s always important to research and speak to an optician to find the right pair for you. Remember, you don’t need to worry about brands as your Eye Care Professional is going to fit you with the correct lenses for your eyes.

Does contact lens brand matter?

When it comes to contact lenses, different brands may have different levels of comfort and convenience for specific needs, so be sure to consult with your eye doctor before purchasing contact lenses.

It is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices and must be prescribed by a qualified eye care professional. By working with your eye doctor, you can ensure you get the contact lenses that best match your vision correction needs and lifestyle. Your eye doctor can also provide guidance on contact lens safety, care, and wear to help keep your eyes healthy.

Ultimately, contact lens brand does matter. With the right contact lenses, you will be able to enjoy clearer vision and improved comfort. Put your mind at ease by researching the various brands available so you can be sure to understand everything that your doctor recommends in your contact lens prescription.

Can you change contact lens brand?

It’s common for a friend or family member to recommend their lens brand since they know they’re comfortable. However, keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another.

Before switching contact lenses, you’ll need a new fitting before, even if the contacts are the same brand. This is because different contact lenses have different curves and dimeters which alter the fit. Remember to always ask your optician before changing contact lens brand.

There are so many contact lens choices available at SmartBuyGlasses. If you have any questions about which contact lens brand is best for you, don’t hesitate to ask one of our certified online opticians.

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