Are you tired of spending hours in stores trying to find the perfect pair of glasses?
Or do you worry about choosing the wrong frame or lens when shopping online? — don’t worry, you are not alone. Glasses2you, one of the UK’s largest prescription glasses retailers, is here to help.
Many individuals face the same challenges and feel confused by the almost endless options available online. This article is here to help you navigate the right glasses online for your individual needs.
Understand Your Prescription
The first step to buying the right glasses online is to have a clear understanding of your prescription. Having the right prescription makes sure you get lenses that provide optimal vision correction.
Here are some important terms you should know:
Sphere (SPH):
Sphere are in numbers which indicates the lens power needed to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. A negative number (-) means you are nearsighted, while a positive number (+) means you are farsighted.
Cylinder (CYL):
If you have astigmatism, your prescription will include this value. It indicates the amount of lens power needed to correct the uneven curvature of your eye.
Axis:
This number corresponds to the cylinder and indicates the angle for positioning the lens to correct astigmatism, which ranges between 0 and 180 degrees.
Near Adds (ADD):
Near Adds indicates the additional magnification required for reading or close-up tasks. This value is usually added to the sphere power to provide clear vision at near distances. The ADD power is often the same for both eyes and is denoted by a positive number, such as +1.50.
Pupillary Distance (PD):
PD measurement is the distance between the centres of your pupils. It’s important to ensure that the lenses are positioned correctly in your frames. A precise PD helps with proper lens alignment, which provides better vision comfort.
Importantly, make sure that your prescription is up-to-date and accurate to get the correct lenses.
- Go for regular eye tests. You should have a test at least every 2 years.
- Double-check that the details on your prescription are clear and legible.
- If your prescription does not include your pupillary distance, measure it yourself or ask your optometrist to provide it.
Understanding and checking your prescription means you will be better equipped to select glasses that enhance your vision and meet your specific needs.
Tips to Find the Perfect Pair of Glasses Online
Here are the 8 tips that you should use to find a perfect pair of glasses online:
#1 Know Your Face Shape —
Identify your face shape to choose frames that complement your features. Oval faces look great with most frame styles, while round faces benefit from angular frames. Square faces pair well with round or oval frames, and heart-shaped faces shine with bottom-heavy frames.
#2 Use Virtual Try-On Tools —
Many online retailers, like Glasses2you, offer virtual try-on tools. Use these tools to see how different frames look on your face. Upload a photo or use your webcam to try on multiple styles. This helps you visualise how the glasses will fit.
#3 Read Customer Reviews —
Reviews provide insights into the quality and fit of the glasses. Check for feedback on the comfort of the frames, durability, and lens clarity. Pay attention to reviews from customers with similar face shapes or prescription needs. Glasses2you has 12,000+ reviews on Trustpilot with one of the highest rating in the UK.
#4 Check Return and Exchange Policies —
Ensure the retailer offers a good return or exchange policy. Buying glasses online can be tricky, so having the option to return or exchange is important. This gives you peace of mind in case the glasses don’t meet your expectations.
#5 Measure Your Current Glasses —
If you have a pair of glasses that fit well, measure the frame’s width, lens height, and bridge size. Use these measurements to find similar-sized frames online. Matching the size helps ensure a comfortable fit.
#6 Consider Your Lifestyle —
Think about how you’ll use the glasses. If you’re active, look for durable, flexible frames. For office work, consider blue light-blocking lenses. Your lifestyle should guide your choice of frame material and lens options.
#7 Filter by Frame Material —
Different materials offer various benefits. Plastic frames are lightweight and come in many colours. Metal frames are durable and adjustable. Titanium frames are strong yet light. Choose a material that matches your comfort and style preferences.
#8 Look for Discounts and Promotions —
Search for deals and discounts before making a purchase. Many online retailers offer promotions, especially during holidays or seasonal sales. Sign up for newsletters or use coupon codes to save money on your glasses.
How to Select Your Lenses Online?
1. Understand Your Lens Options
Start by knowing the different types of lenses available. Single-vision lenses correct either nearsightedness or farsightedness, while bifocal lenses address both near and distant vision in one lens. Progressive lenses offer a seamless transition between different prescription strengths without visible lines. Choose the type that fits your vision needs.
2. Choose the Right Lens Material
Lens material affects comfort and durability. Standard plastic lenses are affordable and lightweight, suitable for most prescriptions. Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant, making them ideal for children or active individuals. High-index lenses are thinner and lighter, which makes them ideal for stronger prescriptions. Select a material based on your lifestyle and prescription strength.
3. Consider Anti-Reflective Coating
Anti-reflective (AR) coating reduces glare from screens, headlights, and sunlight, providing clearer vision and less eye strain. It’s especially useful if you spend a lot of time driving or working on a computer. Adding AR coating can enhance the overall comfort and functionality of your lenses.
4. Opt for UV Protection
UV protection is essential for shielding your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Most lenses come with built-in UV protection, but it’s always good to confirm this feature. Lenses with UV protection reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
5. Blue Light Blocking Lenses
If you spend hours in front of digital screens, consider lenses with blue light-blocking technology. These lenses reduce exposure to blue light emitted by computers, smartphones, and other devices, which helps to prevent eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns.
6. Select the Right Lens Thickness
Lens thickness is important for comfort and appearance. If you have a strong prescription, opt for high-index lenses that are thinner and lighter. Thinner lenses also reduce the “coke bottle” effect, making your glasses look more stylish and sleek.
7. Add Scratch-Resistant Coating
For durability, consider adding a scratch-resistant coating to your lenses. The coating helps protect your lenses from everyday wear and tear, which ensures they last longer and stay clear. It’s a small investment that can extend the life of your glasses.
8. Check for Warranty or Replacement Policies
Before finalising your purchase, check if the retailer offers a warranty or replacement policy on the lenses. It ensures that if your lenses are defective or don’t meet your expectations, you can get them replaced without additional cost.
Ready to Buy A Pair of Glasses Online?
Finding the perfect pair of glasses online may seem challenging, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. By understanding your prescription and following the tips mentioned in this blog you can confidently purchase glasses that enhance your vision and style.
