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Lenses that come with UV protection included

Several lens materials naturally offer UV protection without requiring additional coatings. These materials block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, ensuring your eyes are safeguarded from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Here's a breakdown:

1. Polycarbonate

  • Key Feature: Naturally blocks 100% UV rays.
  • Benefits: Lightweight, impact-resistant, and ideal for children’s glasses, sports eyewear, and safety glasses.

2. Trivex

  • Key Feature: Like polycarbonate, Trivex lenses have built-in UV protection.
  • Benefits:
    • Superior optical clarity compared to polycarbonate.
    • Lightweight and impact-resistant, making it another great choice for active lifestyles and safety eyewear.

3. High-Index Plastic Lenses

  • Key Feature: Most high-index plastic lenses provide built-in UV protection, though the level may vary slightly depending on the index.
  • Benefits:
    • Thin and lightweight, ideal for high prescriptions to reduce lens thickness.
    • Good for fashion-forward eyewear with high prescription needs.

Comparison of Lens Materials with Built-In UV Protection

Material UV Protection (%) Additional Coating Needed?
Polycarbonate 100% No
Trivex 100% No
High-Index (1.67-1.74) 100% (varies slightly) No

Tips for Choosing UV-Protective Lenses

  1. Look for UV400 Labeling: This ensures the lenses block all wavelengths of UV rays up to 400 nm.
  2. Ask About Coatings: If using materials like CR-39 or glass, make sure a UV-blocking coating is applied.
  3. Polarized Lenses: While polarization reduces glare, check that the lenses also have full UV protection.

Conclusion

If you're seeking natural UV protection, polycarbonate, Trivex, and high-index lenses are excellent choices as they inherently block 100% UV rays. If you opt for materials like CR-39 or glass, make sure a UV-blocking coating is added for full protection. Always confirm with your eye care provider that your lenses meet the standard for UV400 protection.