After you fall in love with a pair of frames, you sit down with an optician and go through a list of add-on elements to ensure your glasses will be effective based on your lifestyle, including blue light filter, progressive lenses, transitional lenses, and more. But, then you get the estimate and you have sticker shock.
Take a deep breath, it's important to remember that eye wear are a personal medical device to help you see, and they are an investment in your health.
Just like any other important purchase, it is important to do your research before buying glasses. To ensure you are prepared for your next pair of glasses and the investment that might come with them, here are some add-ons and what they will do for your glasses:
- Blue light filter: This is a must for anyone who spends a lot of time looking at screens, whether it's for work, school, or leisure. Blue light has been linked to eye strain, dry eyes, and even migraines. A blue light filter will help to reduce the amount of harmful blue light that enters your eyes, making for a more comfortable experience.
- Progressive lenses: If you have trouble seeing both near and far, progressive lenses are a great option. These lenses are designed to provide a seamless transition between distance and close-up vision, making them ideal for those who need reading glasses but don't want to constantly switch between two pairs.
- Anti-reflective coating: This is a must-have for anyone who works long hours in front of a computer or spends a lot of time driving. Anti-reflective coatings help to reduce the amount of glare that reflects off your lenses, making it easier to see and reducing eye strain.
- UV protection: This is an important feature for anyone, regardless of whether you spend time outdoors or not. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows, so it's important to have a pair of glasses that block out these harmful rays. UV protection will help to reduce the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other eye problems.
Add-ons like blue light filters, progressive lenses, and anti-reflective coatings may cost a little bit more upfront but they will be worth it in the long run. Insurance may cover some of these add-ons, so be sure to check with your provider before making your purchase.
When it comes to your health, you should never skimp on quality. Be sure to do your research and find a pair of glasses that will provide you with the features you need to see clearly and comfortably. Your eyesight is worth the investment!