Selecting eyeglasses may seem on the surface to be a matter of finding a fashion you like, but walk into any optical store and you will soon discover there is a dizzying array of lens choices available. Although the types of eyeglass lenses you choose are somewhat dictated by your prescription, even those with the most difficult of prescriptions have numerous options.

The first order of business when selecting types of eyeglass lenses is to choose your lens design and brand. If you wear single vision lenses the laboratory will make this selection for you. Individuals with bifocal or multifocal prescriptions, however, have several options to choose from. The most inexpensive types of eyeglass lenses for bifocal or trifocal wearers is a lined bifocal (or trifocal). This lens has 2 strengths in it- a reading strength and distance strength. These strengths are separated by a line that is visible to all.

Once the most popular style of bifocal, the lined bifocal has taken a back seat to an advanced lens design, the progressive addition lens or PAL. Also called a “no-line bifocal” the PAL has multiple lens strengths in one lens which change gradually as the user moves their eye down to the bottom of the lens. These types of eyeglass lenses have several advantages over lined bifocal. PALs offer more than just a reading strength and distance strength. This allows users to see at arms-lengths and eliminates the need for a lined trifocal. PALs also have a distinct aesthetic advantage over lined bifocals as they have no visible line.

The next choice you may make when selecting the types of eyeglass lenses you need is the selection of lens material. An optician will often make several recommendations based on the style of frame you have chosen and your prescription. The advantages and disadvantages of the most common lens materials are summarized below.

Once the style and material of lens has been chosen, several lens options may be added to your eyeglasses. These options, with both visual and aesthetic benefits, are:

• Photochromatic Lenses: Popular types of eyeglass lenses that changes color when exposed to sunlight.
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Reduces glare improving visual clarity and making the wearers eyes easier to see. An excellent coating for nearly all types of lenses, especially for high prescriptions, as it makes lenses look less obvious.
• Scratch Resistance Coating: Extends the life of eyeglass lenses by providing a tough layer of protection. Scratch coatings often include a warranty.
• UV Coating: Important for individuals that spend a significant amount of time outside. Not necessary for polycarbonate or glass lenses as these materials inherently block UV light.
• Tint: Added color for style or use as sunglasses.
• Polarized Lenses: A colored form of lens that reduces glare of off flat surfaces such as wet roads. The best choice for sunglasses.

There are so many different types of eyeglass lenses that with a little information it is easy to get just the right thing to fit your prescription and lifestyle needs.