Lens Materials

Optical Lens Labs offers lenses in several materials. Learn which material is best for you.

CR-39
CR-39 lenses are made of a plastic polymer that’s about half the weight of glass. Its low cost relative to other materials makes it a popular choice. CR-39s are thicker and heavier than other lenses in our lineup and don’t offer UV protection.

CR-39 lenses should not be used for drill mount lenses and are discouraged for rimless frames because the lens is more likely to chip than with other frames.

Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate was originally developed for helmet visors, “bulletproof” glass, and similar uses, and later adapted for use in eyewear. Due to its superior impact resistance, it’s a good choice for children’s eyewear and sports sunglasses. Polycarbonate lenses offer complete UV protection.

Trivex
Trivex lenses have a comparable impact resistance to polycarbonate, yet in a thinner and lighter weight lens, translating into comfortable all-day wear. Trivex lenses offer complete UV protection.

High Index: 1.56, 1.6, 1.67, 1.74
High-index lenses allow people with stronger prescriptions for farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism to banish the look and weight of “coke-bottle glasses”. These lenses are both thin and lightweight.

The high index number (1.56, 1.6, etc.) is a measure of a technical term called “refractive index”. The higher the index number, the thinner the lens will be.

High index lenses offer complete UV protection.

Lens Care
See the At-a-Glance Ordering Options grid to learn about the coatings Optical Lens Lab Offers to protect your lenses and your eyes.

Learn How to Care for and Extend the Life of Your Frames and Glasses.