Clear, comfortable vision is something many of us take for granted—until it begins to deteriorate. Whether caused by genetics, age, screen exposure or lifestyle factors, vision problems are increasingly common. Fortunately, optical glasses remain one of the most effective and accessible ways to correct and manage visual impairments.
At Opticalise, we believe glasses should offer more than just function—they should reflect your lifestyle, elevate your confidence, and support your long-term eye health. Here’s everything you need to know about how optical glasses work and how to choose the right pair.
What Are Optical Glasses?
Optical glasses—commonly referred to as spectacles—are medical devices designed to correct refractive errors, helping light focus correctly onto the retina. They improve clarity of vision and reduce the strain your eyes experience from trying to compensate for those errors.
Refractive errors occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. The main types include:
- Myopia (short-sightedness) – Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly
- Hyperopia (long-sightedness) – Difficulty focusing on nearby objects
- Astigmatism – Distorted or blurred vision at all distances due to an irregularly shaped cornea or lens
- Presbyopia – Age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects, often noticed from around age 40
Optical lenses counter these issues by redirecting how light enters your eye so that it hits the retina at the right angle, bringing everything into focus.
How Do Optical Glasses Work?
The science behind optical glasses is based on the principle of refraction—the bending of light. Each refractive error requires a different lens shape:
- Concave lenses (thinner at the centre) are used for myopia. They diverge incoming light rays before they reach the eye, helping focus distant images correctly.
- Convex lenses (thicker at the centre) are prescribed for hyperopia, as they converge light rays to improve near vision.
- Cylindrical lenses are used for astigmatism to correct varying focus in different meridians of the eye.
- Multifocal lenses (e.g. bifocal or progressive lenses) are used to address presbyopia, offering different powers in one lens to aid both near and distance vision.
Understanding Your Prescription
After an eye examination, you’ll receive a prescription made up of several values. These determine how your lenses should be crafted to improve your sight:
- Sphere (SPH): Corrects myopia or hyperopia
- Cylinder (CYL) and Axis: Address astigmatism
- Add (Addition): Indicates the extra power needed for close-up tasks, typically for reading glasses or bifocals
- Prism: Prescribed in some cases to correct alignment issues or double vision
At Opticalise, we use advanced digital measurement systems to ensure each prescription is translated into a lens that provides optimal clarity, balance, and comfort.
Lens Types: Choosing the Right One for You
Today’s lenses go far beyond single-use vision correction. Depending on your visual needs and lifestyle, we may recommend one of the following:
🟢 Single Vision Lenses
Ideal for correcting one field of vision—either distance or near.
🔵 Bifocal Lenses
Designed with two distinct sections to help with both near and distance vision. These are commonly used to address presbyopia.
🟣 Progressive (Multifocal) Lenses
Offer a seamless visual transition between different viewing distances, without visible lines on the lens.
🔶 Occupational Lenses
Tailored for specific work tasks, such as screen use, offering better intermediate and near vision.
Lens Enhancements & Coatings
Modern optical lenses can be customised with advanced coatings that provide added functionality:
- Anti-Reflective Coating: Minimises glare from lights and screens
- UV Protection: Shields your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays
- Scratch-Resistant Coating: Increases lens durability for everyday use
- Blue Light Filter: Reduces eye fatigue caused by digital screens
- Photochromic Lenses: Automatically adjust to lighting conditions, darkening in sunlight and clearing indoors
These enhancements ensure that your lenses not only correct your vision but also support your lifestyle and eye health.
Materials: Lightweight, Strong, and Comfortable
Depending on your prescription and frame choice, lenses can be made from different materials:
- Plastic (CR-39): Lightweight and affordable, suitable for most prescriptions
- Polycarbonate: Impact-resistant, ideal for children and active lifestyles
- High-Index Plastic: Thinner and lighter for strong prescriptions
- Glass: Offers excellent clarity but is heavier and less impact-resistant
At Opticalise, we recommend the most suitable lens material based on your prescription strength, frame selection, and daily activities.
Style Meets Precision: Frames to Complement Every Face
Optical glasses today are as much a statement of personal style as they are a medical aid. Our curated collection of designer and classic frames includes:
- Bold acetates for a contemporary look
- Minimalist metals for a refined profile
- Lightweight titanium for superior comfort
- Petite or oversized options to suit every face shape
Our qualified dispensing opticians offer professional advice on choosing frames that suit your features, prescription needs, and personality.
Why Routine Eye Tests Matter
Regular eye examinations are crucial—not only to update your prescription but also to monitor your overall eye health. Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration can be detected early through routine testing, ensuring better outcomes and long-term vision preservation.
At Opticalise, we recommend eye tests at least once every two years, or more frequently if advised by your optometrist.
Why Choose Opticalise?
At Opticalise, we are committed to offering a professional, tailored service—combining clinical expertise, advanced lens technology, and a stylish range of eyewear.
From your initial consultation and eye examination to lens fitting and aftercare, we ensure a seamless and personalised experience at every step.
Book Your Eye Test or Fitting Today
Invest in your vision with optical glasses that blend functionality, comfort, and design. Whether you’re new to glasses or updating your look, we’re here to guide you with expertise and care.
Visit us at:
Waterloo Branch – 33 Lower Marsh, Waterloo, London, SE1 7RG
Harrow Branch – 241-243 Preston Road,Harrow, HA3 0PS
Book online: opticalise.com/contact-us/
Contact Us:
Waterloo: 020 7633 0680 (Whatsapp or SMS): 07438233663
Harrow: 020 8908 4888 (Whatsapp or SMS): 07410944644
