SPECTACLE LENSES WITH SCRATCH RESISTANCE

 

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LENSES FROM SCRATCHES

There’s nothing worse than buying an expensive gorgeous pair of eyeglasses and then accidentally dropping them before you’ve even had the chance to show them off. They might not break, but the lenses are probably going to get scratched. However, while there are no 100% scratch-proof lenses – whether plastic or glass – you can find anti-scratch options.

 

WHAT ARE ANTI-SCRATCH LENSES?

Anti-scratch lenses are made by coating regular plastic or glass lenses with a hard protective layer. This coating is applied to the front and back of the lenses.

Many eyeglass lenses today are treated with scratch-resistant coating during the manufacturing process. This is especially true with high-index and polycarbonate lenses. High-index lenses are much thinner and lighter than traditional ones. Polycarbonate lenses are a type of high-index lens that is impact-resistant and have built-in UV protection.

However, a scratch-resistant coating is optional in some cases, so it is best to let your optician know that you want that extra layer of protection. Additional high-quality coatings like Crizal, can protect your glasses and ensure clear vision all the time.

BENEFITS OF ANTI SCRATCH GLASS LENSES

Scratch-resistant glass lenses are better than uncoated lenses in several ways. Anti-scratch lenses are:

  • Less prone to getting scrapes and ugly scratches on the surface
  • More durable and less likely to break upon impact
  • Provide clearer vision for a longer period
  • Have a prolonged lifespan, keeping your eyeglasses looking as good as new for longer

 

WHO NEEDS ANTI-SCRATCH LENSES?

Anyone can benefit from scratch-resistant glass, but there are people who need them more than others. If you live an active lifestyle – play sports or engage in outdoor activities regularly, for example – then you need eyeglasses that will be able to withstand physical contact and exposure to the elements.

If you tend to leave your glasses lying around unprotected, or if you don’t usually use the case they come in, then you definitely need scratch-resistant lenses.

Scratch-resistant glass lenses are particularly suitable for the elderly since they are more likely to forget to take care of their eyeglasses properly. They may overlook using proper cleaning materials. Furthermore, they tend to accidentally drop their glasses.

Kids are probably the ones who need anti-scratch lenses the most. They usually aren’t too concerned about taking care of their eyewear. If they have scratch-resistant lenses, you don’t have to worry about replacing their eyeglasses every time they get too excited in the playground or shove their glasses unprotected into their backpack pockets.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR LENSES GET SCRATCHED

Bear in mind that even scratch-resistant glass is not totally immune to scrapes and grazes, especially if you don’t take good care of them.

To avoid damaging your lenses, make sure that you clean them regularly and with the appropriate cleaning material. Use the cloth that comes with your eyeglasses – not your shirt, paper towels, or any other abrasive material. You may use mild detergent mixed with clean warm water or solutions sold at optical shops. Make sure you always put your glasses in their case when you’re not using them, even if you’re just placing them on the table.

If your lenses do get scratched, you do not need to worry about having to spend money on a new pair immediately. In many cases, you can repair scratches yourself. If you do it correctly, you won’t do further damage and your glasses will be as good as new.

For minor scratches, you can use common household materials such as soft cotton cloth and non-abrasive toothpaste. Rub the scratches carefully in circles until they disappear. Use cold water to remove the toothpaste.

Alternatively, use baking soda. Make a thick paste by mixing baking soda with water and follow the same process.

If you have plastic lenses, you can use commercial glass etching compounds. For most products, simply apply gently, let it sit for five minutes, and then wipe the lens dry. Never use this for glass lenses, as it will do more harm than good!

Car wax and windshield water repellent work well with both plastic and glass lenses. Use soft cloth – microfiber works best – to polish the affected lens.

If you’re unsure about which coating suits your lifestyle or lenses, do not hesitate to ask your optician.