The light-bending ability of a material is indicated by its index of refraction. When we discuss glasses and contacts, we’re discussing the degree to which these lenses can assist you see better by bending light. When light travels through different materials, like glass or plastic, it doesn’t always go straight — it can hit the edge of that material and bend. It is this bending that is correcting your vision.
A higher index of refraction number means the lens is able to refract light better. This is especially helpful for those who have a higher prescription. But while a weaker prescription simply indicates you need a little help with clarity, a stronger prescription means you need much more assistance to see clearly. Higher index lenses can be thinner and lighter, making them easier, and more comfortable to wear. But keep in mind, not everyone requires these higher index lenses. Others may fare just as well with regular lenses.
Well, let's dive into the reasons why you might want higher index lenses. With glasses or even contact lenses, the thickness of the lenses speaks to how much they must bend light. If you are more severely myopic, the lenses need to focus light a lot, and that means they need to be thicker and heavier.
However, a lens with a higher index of refraction can bend light more efficiently. That means this one doesn’t need to be as thick or heavy to help you see well. This is particularly good news for such people, as it makes wearing them more comfortable. They don’t have to worry about heavy glasses sliding down their nose, and they can feel better about how they look with a more permanent solution.
Polycarbonate lenses are a kind of plastic that is already injected and known for being lightweight and strong. These lenses are less common than regular plastic ones and have an index of refraction. That means they can bend light more effectively, and that contributes to them being thinner. If we talk about glass lenses, they can bend the light even more than polycarbonate lenses. There is one drawback, however — glass lenses are usually heavier than plastic varieties.
These differences make lens material selection that much more critical. The formulation to take depends on your prescription and a normal day. If you are sporty and more active, you might consider polycarbonate lenses, as they are stronger. Plus, you will want to think about how scratch resistant the lenses are and how long they will last.
It also means that getting the index of refraction right is essential for you to be comfortable, and for the health of your eyes. High index lenses are great for people with strong prescriptions as they offer a lens that is thinner, but still does a good job at correcting vision. It also benefits anyone who prefers their lenses to be less conspicuous.