If you have not heard about thin lenses, then wait till the end to know about this type of lens which can be opted. This type of lens is widely available with all leading optometrists across online and offline channels. At the end of the article, you shall know about the various types, pros and cons and also how beneficial are they from the other ones that you have been using all your life. I am sure, that you will be confident and decisive to choose and upgrade to thin lens glasses in the near future.

Introduction

In the optical world, a thin lens can be defined as the separation of the two surfaces is negligible compared to other axial distances.

In Layman's terms, these lenses are thinner in width as compared to the other optical glasses that are available in the market. There are two types of thin lenses, concave (diverging) and convex (converging). They are generally suggested by a certified optometrist or an opthamalogist as prescribed lenses for individuals having vision issues. Thin lenses work quite well for the light of a single wavelength, also known as monochromatic light.

Advantages of thinner lens

• Thinner the better:-Thin lenses mean high index lenses and as the index is increased lenses go thinner.
• Better Aesthetics: - Thinner lenses not only help us to see better but also they are aesthetically better.
• Better vision:-Lighter and high index lenses give crisp and sharper vision as they have less of aberrations.
• Prescription only glasses: - Anyone who has a prescription more than -2.00 should be wearing high index lenses.
• Less visible:-The lens's edges can easily be covered within the frame, making it look less visible to others.
• Boon for the myopic:-People with myopic vision tend to have smaller eyes, thin lenses can make the eye look larger.
• Superior:-Being superior to other type’s lenses, it has extraordinary properties of bending light which is better for correcting vision for people who have myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

Disadvantages of thinner lens

• Thinner lenses: - Apart from that they are thin so if they slip or fall can break easily compared to regular index lenses. 
• Costly: - Also, they are costly as they range between 4000-20,000 INR.
• Abrasion resistance: - As the glasses are made of polycarbonate, they tend to get scratches and fine lines if used. One should opt for an anti-scratch coating to avoid such instances.

As the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, hence these types of lenses are more preferred with people having optical disorders as mentioned above.

Buying guide for thin lens

1.)   Freedom to select frame: - Once you know your face type, you can choose the frame that suits you the best and also select the lens as prescribed by an optometrist.

2.)   Selection of vision type:-It is very important to choose the correct vision type, single or varifocal. Again as per prescribed by an optometrist.

3.)   Lens coating: - As per prescription, one can order from clear fully loaded, sunglass tints, digital blue light or light adaptive.

4.)   Lens package:- At this stage, one can choose between basic (index 1.5or 1.56), thin (index1.6 or 1.63), and ultra-thin (index 1.67)

5.)   Acetate, TR90 or composite frames:- Individuals with prescriptions up to (+/ -) 3,6 & 9 can choose a frame acetate frame as they are thicker than metal and comparatively easier to hide around the bevel.

6.)   Metal Frames: - Individuals with prescriptions up to (+/ -) 2.5, 5 & 9 can go for metal frames as these have thin wire, and the lens thickness is more visible.

7.)   Thinner lens: - Thin lenses are 20% thinner than the basic lens and ultra-thin are 30% thinner than the basic lens.

8.)   Versatile:-These lenses are Anti-UV, Anti-glare, AntiScratch, and Impact-resistant making them a versatile choice.

FAQs

1.)  When do I need thin glasses?

If your optometrist detects myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism following a brief eye examination. If you have a prescription of 3 and above then consider in getting one immediately! The edges of thin lens fit perfectly into the frame and hence making it look almost invisible and they are much lighter in weight as compared to other lenses.

2.)  Where can I get thin lenses in India?

Any leading optician can provide you with thin lenses in India after eyes are examined by a certified optometrist.

3.)  Can I buy these lenses online?

If you have been wearing lenses for quite some time and know your index power of the eyes then you may purchase. However, it is always recommended to take an appointment and visit the nearest optometrist in your area as any changes in the eye power can be detected by them and suggest the best.

4.)  Why are they costly?

As it is made of different types of materials hence, the cost ranges. Also, with the increase in the index power of the eye, the costs of the lenses go up. Also, they have better light refracting qualities than other lenses that giving them added leverage. The lens alone can range between INR 4000-20,000.

5.)  What are the types of thin lenses?

There are 3 basic types of lens: basic, ultra, and ultra-thin.

6.)  Which is the best thin lens?

Depending upon the existing condition of the human eye, all thin lenses are better but they differ in thinness. A basic (index 1.5or 1.56), thin (index1.6 or 1.63) and ultra-thin (index 1.67).

7.)  Are they reliable and safe?

They are absolutely safe and reliable to the point that they are far better than other types of lenses. And if one wishes to jazz up, they can get a photochromic coating which will backup as a sunglass too.

8.)  Can it make my eyes look bigger?

Myopic individuals with high prescriptions tend to have smaller eyes due to shortsightedness and having spectacles made by using a thin lens can help them immensely by making their eyes look big.

Conclusion

To conclude, it can be said that thin glasses are the absolute and safe choice backed up with modern technology to aid better vision for individuals with optical issues.