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Plastic Conventional hard resin lenses are half the weight of glass lenses and can be tinted to almost any color and density.  Hard resin lenses are more easily scratched than glass, but can have an optional scratch protection applied.  More impact resistant than glass, hard resin lenses do not require heat treating.  Best for low prescriptions near sighted power of less than -300 or farsighted less than +300. Glass Heavy. Expensive.  The least safe of all lenses.  Glass lenses are rarely prescribed now because more durable, lighter-weight lens materials are available.

Hi-Index lenses (thinner and lighter) Modern technology has created lenses that bend light differently so that stronger corrections are thinner than when made in conventional materials.  Such lenses are called “high index” and stronger corrections are more attractive because they are slimmer.  Glass lenses are also available with the slimming advantages of High index but are considerably heavier.  High index plastic uses less material so they are often lighter in weight.  High index lenses absorb all harmful UV light and can be tinted to any shade or color.

		Polycarbonate Polycarbonate lenses are the most impact resistant lenses available and are always the lens of choice for young people and active partients.  Polycarbonate lenses are high index and are usually the lightest, most comfortable lenses.  They absorb all harmful UV light and can be made with ultra thin edges because of their unique strength.
			Scratch Protection An extremely tough quartz coating to protect the soft surface of plastic and polycarbonate lenses.
				Anti Reflection Coatings Special anti-reflective coatings are now available for spectacle lenses, much like those used for fine camera lenses.  These coatings are particularly effective for reducing eye fatigue for computer operators and anyone driving at night.  And, of course, AR lenses enhance appearance by removing all distracting reflections.

UV Protection It is generally accepted that the ultraviolet rays in sunlight pose potential harm to the eyes.  Special treatment is available for hard resin lenses that completely blocks hazardous UV light.  Lenses like polycarbonate and high index include built-in UV protection at no extra cost. Tints Lenses can be colored in a veritable rainbow of colors, each serving a specific purpose.