What Are High Index Lenses?

High Index lenses were invented to help people with stronger prescriptions achieve thinner, lighter lenses, improving both appearance and comfort. These lenses are specifically designed to bend light more efficiently than standard lenses, allowing for a reduced thickness without sacrificing clarity. If your prescription falls in the range of +/-3.00 or higher, high index lenses may be the best option for you.

Why Are High Index Lenses Thinner?

High index lenses bend light more effectively due to their higher refractive index. The refractive index of a lens measures how much light is bent as it passes through the material. The higher the index, the more the light is bent, allowing the lens to be made thinner while still correcting your vision.

Who Should Consider High Index Lenses?

If your prescription is +/-3.00 or stronger, high index lenses can significantly improve the comfort and look of your glasses. A higher prescription can result in thick, bulky lenses that are heavier and can distort the appearance of your eyes. High index lenses offer a sleek, modern solution by making the lenses thinner and lighter, reducing this distortion.

What Prescription Strengths Benefit from High Index Lenses?

• 1.67 High Index Lenses: Ideal for prescriptions ranging from +/-3.00 to +/-6.00. These are significantly thinner than standard lenses and work well for moderate to strong prescriptions.
• 1.74 High Index Lenses: Recommended for those with prescriptions over +/-6.00. These are even thinner, providing the lightest and most streamlined look.
• 1.80 High Index Lenses: Typically available in glass, these are ideal for single vision users with very high prescriptions.

Do I Need High Index Lenses If My Prescription Is Low?

No, if your prescription is less than +/-3.00, standard lenses will work well for you, and you won’t see much benefit from high index lenses. In fact, you’ll end up paying more without significant advantages.

How Should I Choose a Frame for High Index Lenses?

When choosing high index lenses, your frame size and shape are crucial. Smaller frames will make your lenses look thinner, while large frames, such as aviators, may still make lenses appear thick, even if they are high index. We recommend choosing a full plastic frame to help hide any protrusions.

What Are the Pros of High Index Lenses?

• Thinner & Lighter: High index lenses are significantly thinner and lighter than standard lenses, improving both comfort and appearance.
• Reduced Eye Distortion: Thinner lenses minimize the “bug-eye” effect that often comes with higher prescriptions.
• Anti-Reflective Coating Included: Many retailers, including LensFactory, include anti-reflective coating in the price, reducing glare.

What Are the Cons of High Index Lenses?

• Higher Cost: Due to the craftsmanship and materials involved, high index lenses generally cost more than standard lenses.
• More Brittle: High index lenses can be more fragile, especially during manufacturing, making them more prone to breaking.
• Scratch-Prone: These lenses are softer than standard lenses, so they can scratch easily if not properly cared for.
• Chromatic Aberrations: In some cases, high index lenses may create slight halos or color distortions in bright light, particularly at the edges of the lenses.

What’s the Difference Between High-Index and Polycarbonate Lenses?

The key difference is in the material and usage. High-index lenses are thinner and lighter, designed for those with strong prescriptions (over +/-3.00), while polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant, making them ideal for sports and safety glasses. Polycarbonate lenses are generally thicker than high-index lenses but are preferred for their durability and resilience against cracking or shattering.

What’s the Difference Between 1.67 and 1.74 High-Index Lenses?

The difference lies in the refractive index, which affects thickness. 1.67 lenses are thinner than standard lenses and are suited for moderate prescriptions (+/-3.00 to +/-6.00). 1.74 lenses are even thinner, recommended for prescriptions over +/-6.00, offering maximum thinness for strong prescriptions. Both reduce lens thickness but 1.74 lenses offer more of an advantage for very high prescriptions.

Are High Index Lenses Reflective?

Yes, high index lenses can be more reflective than standard lenses due to their ability to bend light more efficiently. This is why most high index lenses come with an anti-reflective coating to combat glare and reflections.

How Do I Maintain My High Index Lenses?

Proper lens care is essential to extend the lifespan of high index lenses. Always store them in a case when not in use, clean them with a microfiber cloth, and avoid placing them face down on surfaces to prevent scratches.

FAQs About High Index Lenses

• Do high index lenses improve vision? High index lenses improve aesthetics and comfort but don’t change the quality of vision correction compared to standard lenses. The primary benefit is the thinner, lighter profile for high prescriptions.
• Do high index lenses scratch easily? Yes, due to their softer material, high index lenses can scratch more easily, so they require more careful handling.
• Can I wear high index lenses with any frame? High index lenses work best with smaller, full plastic frames, which help hide lens thickness. Larger or rimless frames may not hide lens edges as well.