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When buying prescription glasses, you’re often offered multiple lens coating options—some essential, others optional. But do you really need them all? Understanding the purpose of each coating can help you decide which ones are worth paying for.
1. Common Types of Lens Coatings
✔ Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating
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Reduces glare from screens, headlights, and artificial lighting.
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Improves vision clarity and contrast in bright environments.
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Recommended for: Night driving, computer users, and high-index lenses (which reflect more light).
✔ Blue Light Blocking Coating
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Filters out high-energy blue light from digital screens.
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May reduce eye strain for heavy screen users.
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Recommended for: Those who spend long hours on computers or phones.
✔ Scratch-Resistant Coating
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Adds a protective layer to reduce surface scratches.
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Extends the lifespan of your lenses.
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Recommended for: Kids, active users, and polycarbonate lenses (which scratch easily).
✔ UV Protection Coating
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Blocks 100% of harmful UVA & UVB rays.
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Helps prevent long-term eye damage like cataracts.
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Recommended for: All lenses—though polycarbonate and high-index lenses already have built-in UV protection.
✔ Hydrophobic & Oleophobic Coating (Water & Smudge Resistant)
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Repels water, oil, and fingerprints, keeping lenses cleaner.
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Makes cleaning easier with fewer smudges and streaks.
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Recommended for: Those in humid climates or who frequently clean their lenses.
✔ Photochromic Coating (Transitions® Lenses)
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Lenses darken in sunlight and turn clear indoors.
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Eliminates the need for separate prescription sunglasses.
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Recommended for: People who frequently go indoors and outdoors
2. Which Lens Coatings Are Worth It?
| Coating | Worth It? | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Anti-Reflective (AR) | ✅ Yes | Anyone wearing prescription glasses, especially high-index lenses |
| Blue Light Blocking | ⚖️ Maybe | Heavy screen users or those experiencing digital eye strain |
| Scratch-Resistant | ✅ Yes | Most lenses, especially kids’ glasses & active users |
| UV Protection | ✅ Yes | Essential for protecting eye health |
| Hydrophobic/Oleophobic | ⚖️ Maybe | If you frequently clean smudges off your lenses |
| Photochromic (Transitions®) | ⚖️ Maybe | People who don’t want separate prescription sunglasses |
Conclusion
Not all lens coatings are necessary, but some can significantly improve comfort and lens durability. Anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and UV protection coatings are must-haves, while blue light filters, hydrophobic layers, and photochromic coatings depend on personal preference. Choose wisely to get the best value for your vision!