Eyeglasses

When it comes to eyeglasses that old maxim holds true — one size doesn't fit all. Various lifestyles, occupations and activities require different types of frames and lenses. Matching your unique lifestyle needs with the appropriate eyeglasses will not only improve vision and protect your eyes, but also can enhance your look, performance and comfort.

There has never been a better time to build an eyeglasses wardrobe that suits both your vision and lifestyle needs.

Comfort, fit and durability rank high with men when it comes to choosing men's eyeglass frames. While men are concerned with style, they won't forsake comfort and fit just to look good. Men have their own tastes, but it may be a wife, girlfriend or significant other who will influence the final style or color of their eyeglass frames.

Unlike men most women are interested in how women's eyeglass frames look rather than be concerned about comfort and fit. Women are more prone to chase fashion styles. Like other must-have accessories, it's essential to have a wardrobe of eyeglass frames that work with a variety of looks. The key is to make sure that your choice complements your outfit and your personality.

Prescription eyeglasses are a popular vision correction option for contact lens wearers who want a break from their routine and who also want a more fashionable look. Prescription eyeglass frames come in a variety of shapes and sizes so it's important to discuss these requirements with your eye doctor.

Bifocals are a necessity for baby boomers who are having difficulty seeing either up close or at a distance. Bifocals are available in both contact lenses as well as eyeglass lenses. Bifocals contain two lens powers to help restore a fuller range of vision and, in particular, to restore reading vision lost to presbyopia.

Photochromic lenses are ideal for kids and adults who wear prescription eyeglasses and don't want to wear sunglasses outdoors. Photochromic lenses have chemical properties in the lenses that change based upon your environment. When exposed to light they darken to protect your eyes. Once inside they lighten so you can see better.

Polycarbonate lenses have become the standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children's eyewear. Because they are less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyewear designs.

One of the most-often overlooked features for eyeglasses are lens coatings. These include anti-reflective coatings, scratch coatings and UV coatings. These are all important features that should always be taken into consideration when purchasing eyeglasses.

Most people don't realize that the costs of eyeglasses are often covered with vision insurance plans. These plans defray the cost of both the eyeglass frames and lenses and can usually result in big savings.

Finally, it's important to remember that as you age your prescription will also change until you reach a certain age. That's why it's important to get regular eye exams. Your eye doctor will conduct a thorough examination to determine any potential eye problems as well as administer an eye test to gauge your vision correct requirements.