Polycarbonate lenses revolutionized the eyewear industry in the 1970’s and continue to be a great option for safety and durability, comfort and daily UV protection. But what exactly are the benefits and impacts of polycarbonate lenses? Let’s take a look.
What are Polycarbonate Lenses?
Polycarbonate is a type of plastic originally developed for use in aerospace applications. It’s used in many products because of its exceptional strength and transparency. Polycarbonate eyeglass lenses offer distinct advantages over traditional glass or standard plastic lenses.
Lightweight Comfort
Glass lenses and even traditional plastic lenses can be heavy and uncomfortable for prolonged wear. Polycarbonate lenses used in everyday eyeglasses can feel more comfortable because the lightweight lens places less strain on the ears and bridge of the nose. For anyone needing stronger vision correction, other light-weight lenses such as high-index lenses, may be a better fit.
Durability and Safety
Polycarbonate is durable and highly resistant to impact. These virtually shatterproof lenses provide a level of protection that is unmatched by other materials. It’s used in lenses for children and can be added to lenses for athletes or individuals with active lifestyles. Safety glasses and goggles are required to be produced using polycarbonate material.
UV Protection
Polycarbonate lenses block 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. This is critical for children, as experts estimate that as much as 80% of UV damage to our eyes happens before the age of 18. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to various eye problems, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis. Polycarbonate lenses can help safeguard the long-term health of the eyes.
Optical Clarity and Visual Performance
Polycarbonate lenses offer excellent optical clarity and visual performance with minimal distortion. Coatings and treatments adhere well to polycarbonate lenses and can further enhance their performance. Anti-reflective coatings, scratch-resistant coatings and blue light filters are just a few examples.
Versatility and Customization
Polycarbonate material can be used in a wide range of frames and goggles because it can be easily molded and customized. Whether it's for fashion-forward frames, sports goggles, or safety glasses, polycarbonate lenses can be adapted to meet the unique requirements of each application. This adaptability has allowed eyewear manufacturers to create innovative and stylish designs without compromising on lens performance or safety.
Polycarbonate lenses offer a combination of durability, safety, comfort and optical performance that is difficult to match. Their lightweight nature, inherent UV protection and versatility make them an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from everyday eyewear to specialized safety glasses.
Are Polycarbonate Lenses Covered With Vision Insurance?
Employer-sponsored vision plans can be customized to by the employer to meet the needs of employees. While polycarbonate lenses are often fully-covered for children by vision plans, it is important to note that polycarbonate lenses may not be fully covered with your vision insurance. Be sure to review your plan and talk to your eye care provider regarding out-of-pocket costs if you are interested in polycarbonate lenses.
