High index lenses are a plastic-fusion material that is extremely light and thin. Whereas typical plastic lenses with strong prescriptions are thick and heavy, high index lenses optimize light-bending technology and can remain relatively minimal, yet still adhere to strong prescriptions. The main benefits of high index lenses are that they are more comfortable to wear and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. They are also highly shatter resistant, but they still rank under polycarbonate lenses for shatter-resistance ability.
How High Index Lenses Work Corrective lenses are categorized by their ability to bend light. This categorization is determined by a ratio which varies from around 1.50 to 1.74. The ratio describes the natural speed of light compared to the speed of light when it passes through the lens. The higher the ratio, the thinner the lens material is.
Glass and plastic lenses start at the bottom around 1.50, which means they are the thickest kind of lens material. High index lenses can range to over 1.70, which makes them the thinnest lens material available. Since they are thinner, high index lenses are also lighter, and can weigh up to 50% less than plastic lenses. The ratio of your high index lens will largely depend on your prescription.
Are High Index Lenses For You?
High index lenses can fit any style of frames, including Dior, DKNY, and Prada, but your personal eye doctor will give you the best recommendation for high index lenses. Because of high index lenses’ optimal weight and size aspects, they are typically more expensive than plastic or glass lenses.
