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Wednesday, January 25, 2006

Glasses: Anti-Scratch Lenses and UV Protection
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Patients often ask me about anti-scratch lenses, additional UV protection and anti-reflective coating. Here's my take on all three:

Extra UV protection isn't necessary, the lens material (glass or plastic) already has an effective UV filter. Think of it like buying 'undercoat protection' at the new car dealership. Didn't Detroit already take care of this?!?

Don't buy anti-reflective coatings unless you are a TV personality (in which case have the broadcaster buy your eyewear). This add-on spray utilizes a clever optical principle called destructive interference to eliminate the harsh reflection of lightbulbs on the front surface of your glasses. Yes, the observer is the beneficiary, not the wearer!

Those indestructable anti-scratch polycarbonate lenses have a soft surface that tends to scratch fairly easily. Plastic (CR39) lenses should not scratch. The protective coating will likely wear out before the lens does.

Related Topics: Eyeglasses & Contacts, Eyeglass Prescriptions


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Posted by: Dr. Lloyd at 11:09 AM

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