How to boost your eye health with lens enhancements

We’ve heard about blue light protection lenses, variable tint glasses and the like – but do you actually need these upgrades and, if so, how do you know what is right for your eyes? We’ve got the low-down on the latest, must-have lens upgrades to give your eyes the best comfort and vision possible with these commonly asked Q&A’s from Spec-Savers:

1. Does blue light protection really work or is it just a fad?
   Ok, so first off blue light is a natural part of the visible light spectrum and it’s everywhere. The sun is the principal source of blue light, but it is also emitted by artificial light sources such as LED lights and digital devices. Blue light is made up of good and bad blue light. Good blue-turquoise light enhances our mood and cognitive performance. It also regulates our sleep/wake cycle and helps us feel awake, alert and energetic.
   
   Bad blue light: Harmful blue-violet light has been identified as the most dangerous and significant levels of blue light is produced by computer, smartphone, tablet and other digital device screens.  The amount they emit is only a fraction of that in sunlight, but the amount of time people spend using these devices and the proximity of these screens to the user’s face have optometrists concerned. Why? Because this exposure, over time, potentially accelerates retinal aeing and may cause serious long-term damage to your retina. This is because while our eyes are very effective at blocking UV rays from reaching the light-sensitive retina at the back of the eyeball, virtually all visible blue light passes through the cornea and lens and reaches the retina.
   The verdict: If you spend a lot of time looking at screens, It is recommended to use blue light protection lenses, as they greatly reduce the amount of blue light reaching your eyes without affecting the visibility of the display.
2. Are variable tint lenses worthwhile?
   We live in sunny South Africa, so the answer is yes! Photochromic or variable tint lenses are spectacle lenses that are clear indoors or in low light and darken automatically when exposed to sunlight.
   Will it benefit my lifestyle? If you pop in and out of the office often during the day or spend a fair amount of time outdoors, these are ideal for you, as you won’t have to constantly swap between prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses. They also protect the eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
   Try: Look out for the Climate Eyes brand, which is considered a premium photochromic lens at an affordable price.
3. Does anti-reflective coating help my eyes?
   Yup, sure does. Anti-reflective coating makes night driving more comfortable as the glare is reduced and it helps reduce strain from screens. It is also better from an aesthetic point of view, as people talking to you will not be distracted by any reflections in your glasses.
   In need of new glasses? Spec-Savers is offering up to R1500 off your frame or lens enhancements until 30 September 2022*. To qualify, simply purchase an eye examination, prescription frame and prescription spectacle lenses.