There are several options for eyeglasses to choose from these days. Most designer labels regularly come out with new designs. Also, over the years, new brands have emerged and they are all giving the veterans of the eyewear industry a run for their money.
Other than design, there are a few other variables to consider when you want to buy a new pair of eyeglasses. After all, the primary function of eyeglasses is to effectively correct vision problems. So, if you are ready to get a new pair and you want your next eyeglasses to serve you well, listed below are six essential things that you should know.
1. The lenses are always the priority feature.
Quite often, people focus too much on the design of the frames. This is no surprise given how beautiful the available selection is on the market. However, more focus should be directed toward the lenses. After all, they will be responsible for enabling you to see the world more clearly. Additionally, it's the lenses that can ensure your eye health.
Establish first what kind of lenses you need because some eyewear frame designs are not suitable for them. Chances are, if you have a strong prescription for only one eye, one lens may need to be much thicker and heavier than the other. Therefore, the trendy minimalist wireframe, which so many people love, may not be the right choice for you in this case. Such a frame won’t be able to maintain a balance between the two lenses and will be lopsided all the time.
2. It would be best if you thought about tints as well.
The tint is another lens feature that you need to take into account. It's usually added for protective function. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want transition lenses that change into a dark tint when it's bright out.
Another tinting option to consider is yellow tint. This is recommended for eyeglass users who work on the computer for long hours every day. The yellow tint balances out the blue light from computer screens, which can cause eye strain.
3. Lifestyle should also determine the kind of eyeglasses you wear.
If you are thinking of getting a new pair of eyeglasses, Dubai opticians say you have to think about your activities and lifestyle as well. Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Do you spend a lot of time on the computer working or watching videos? Do you read often? Do you also play games on compact gaming consoles?
Different kinds of lens treatments accurately address vision problems and eye protection requirements. You can be sure to get the most appropriate lenses if you specify not just your vision concerns to your eyewear specialist, but also the activities you frequently perform.
You should likewise ask yourself what your personal style is. Are you sporty? Do you often have to attend formal and fancy events? The situations that you often find yourself in should also determine the kind of eyewear you should buy. If you think about it, and Oakley Crosslink still looks too rugged to wear to elegant social events. Meanwhile, a Prada PR29NS LAB/0A7 is too dainty for outdoor activities.
4. Your lenses may need a combination of treatments.
Multiple treatments for eyewear lenses may be necessary. Again, these are determined by the vision correction and protection you need. Listed below are the common treatments or coatings applied to lenses:
- UV protection
- Anti-reflective treatment
- Anti-scratch coating
- Polarized filter
It's important to note that some coatings or treatments are not compatible with each other, which means that you will be required to get a different pair of eyeglasses. You can get more information on this from a thorough consultation with your optician.
5. You may need more than just one pair of new glasses.
Sometimes, having just one pair is not enough. No matter how high-quality your eyewear may be, it can't do it all if you have multiple eye issues.
For example, if you are myopic and you are sensitive to bright lights, the prescription glasses you wear to go about your work may not be the best to use when you drive, especially during the day. You may need to switch to polarized glasses which cut down the glare from bright or reflective surfaces.
However, you cannot use your polarized glasses when working on the computer because the lenses can create distortions on the screens. To enable you to perform well on all the different activities that you normally do, you simply may just need a second or third pair.
6. Choose your frames wisely.
The way most people choose frames is by establishing a contrast between their facial shape and the shape of the frames. This is correct. However, it's also crucial to consider your complexion and hair color since eyewear designs come in different colors and materials. It’s best to find eyewear hues that highlight your features.
This guide can be helpful in ensuring that you invest in top-quality eyewear for your improved eye health, protection, and style needs.
FAQ: What to Know Before Buying Eyeglasses
How do I know if my glasses prescription is still accurate?
If you're experiencing symptoms like blurry vision, headaches, or eye strain, your prescription may be outdated. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends getting a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years, even if you don't notice major changes.
What’s the difference between single vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses?
Single vision lenses correct for one field (distance or near).
Bifocal lenses have distinct sections for distance and near vision.
Progressive lenses offer a gradual transition between multiple focal points with no visible lines.
Progressive lenses are often preferred for aesthetics and smoother vision correction, according to Mayo Clinic.
Are anti-reflective coatings and blue light filters worth it?
Yes. Anti-reflective (AR) coatings reduce glare from screens and headlights, improving clarity and comfort. Blue light filters may reduce digital eye strain, especially for frequent screen users, though evidence on long-term benefits is still mixed (source: NHS and AOA).
How do I choose the right frame size and shape?
Choose frames based on your face shape, bridge fit, and pupil alignment. Ill-fitting frames can cause discomfort or distort your vision. Optometrists can measure your pupillary distance (PD) to ensure lens centers align correctly with your eyes.
Should I buy eyeglasses online or from an optician?
Buying online offers convenience and lower prices, but an in-person visit ensures proper fit, accurate measurements, and aftercare. The AOA warns that glasses bought online may have up to a 44% error rate in lens accuracy or fit.
Q6. Can I use the same glasses for reading and driving?
It depends on your prescription. Single vision distance lenses are ideal for driving, while reading lenses focus on close-up vision. Progressive or bifocal lenses are better suited for multi-tasking needs.
AUTHOR BIO
Firas Saab is the Training Manager at Al Jaber Optical in Dubai, the leading optical and eyewear company in the UAE that offers a comprehensive range of eyewear and optical services across the board, through a wide range of modern optical products and facilities. Firas is an enthusiastic trainer with more than a decade in the retail and optical industry and has recently acquired HND in Business and Management in addition to his Optical qualifications.
Sources and References
American Optometric Association (AOA)
Eye Exams: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-exam
Glasses Prescription Accuracy and Online Glasses Caution: https://www.aoa.org/newsroom/online-eyeglasses-study-safety-concerns