How to Pick the Right Lens Material and Thickness
The choice of lens is an important consideration in multifocal because comfort and clarity depend on lens performance.
Why Lens Thickness Matters
The stronger your prescription, the more your lenses need to bend light. Traditionally, this meant thicker, heavier lenses.
Modern lens technology has changed that. Today, choosing the right lens index can make your glasses dramatically thinner and lighter, even for high prescriptions.
What is Lens Index?
Lens index measures how efficiently the material bends light. The higher the index is, the thinner and lighter the lens.
Here is a simplified guide:
| Index | Best For | Prescription Range | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 | Mild prescriptions | SPH ±2.00 or below | Affordable, basic option. |
| 1.57 | Mild to moderate | SPH ±2.00 to ±4.00 | Slimmer than standard, cost-effective. |
| 1.59 (Polycarbonate) | Active use, kids | SPH ±1.00 to ±6.00 | Impact-resistant, naturally UV-protective. |
| 1.60 | Moderate prescriptions | SPH ±4.00 to ±6.00 | Lightweight and versatile. |
| 1.67 | High prescriptions | SPH ±6.00 to ±9.00 | Ultra-thin, sleek, minimal edge thickness. |
| 1.74 | Very high prescriptions | SPH ±9.00 and above | Thinnest available, reduces eye magnification. |
At MultiFolks, every multifocal lens starts at 1.60 index by default (no extra charge), so your glasses are always lightweight and comfortable. For higher prescriptions, we automatically suggest 1.67 or 1.74 to keep your glasses sleek.
What About Lens Materials?
Beyond thickness, the material affects clarity, safety, and comfort.
- Standard Plastic (CR-39): Affordable and clear, but thicker and less impact-resistant. Best for low prescriptions.
- Polycarbonate (1.59 Index): Lightweight, tough, and UV-blocking by default. Ideal for active users, kids, or rimless frames.
- High-Index Plastics (1.60–1.74): Designed for stronger prescriptions. Thinner, flatter, and more stylish — minimizing the “coke bottle” look.
- Trivex (Future Option): Combines the optical clarity of CR-39 with the strength of polycarbonate (coming soon at MultiFolks).
Coatings for Comfort and Protection (Default vs. Add-On)
Every MultiFolks lens includes, at no extra cost:
- Scratch-resistant coating.
- Anti-reflective coating.
- UV protection.
For added performance, you can personalize with:
- Blue light filters for digital strain.
- Water-repellent, smudge-resistant layers for easy cleaning.
- Transitions® or photochromic lenses for sun-sensitive lifestyles.