Category: Products

Driving at night can be a challenging task on its own due to reduced visibility, but it becomes even more difficult when one wears glasses.

Those who rely on corrective eyewear often face several issues during nighttime driving.

Firstly, glare from headlights and streetlights can be intensified when they hit the lenses of glasses, causing discomfort and temporarily blinding the driver. Additionally, glasses may accumulate smudges, reflections, or streaks over time, further obstructing one’s vision in low-light conditions. Furthermore, the constant adjustment between looking through the glasses for clear vision and above them to see distant road signs or objects can be distracting and potentially hazardous. Nighttime driving demands increased attention and concentration, and the added challenges posed by glasses can make it an even more daunting experience. Fortunately, we have a range of lenses that can help with these issues, keeping you safer on the road as the days begin to get darker earlier.

 

Essilor Varilux Road Pilot

Essilor’s Varilux Road Pilot lenses are among the most advanced spectacle lenses you can get your hands on right now. Whether you prefer single vision or varifocal, these lenses are purpose-built to optimise your vision while you’re behind the wheel. These lenses allow for a wider peripheral vision that grants more natural eye movements when checking the rear-view and side mirrors. This means you’ll be better equipped to anticipate the movements and actions of other cars on the road. The Varilux Road Pilot lens not only enhances distance vision but also expands the intermediate vision zone, providing clearer vision to information like the speedometer. Additionally, these lenses feature Crizal Drive coating by Essilor, reducing reflections from oncoming and other sources of light by up to 90%. This addresses a common nighttime driving issue faced by many of our customers.

Essilor Crizal Drive

Crizal Drive coating is best known for optimising visual clarity, especially when driving at night. All crizal coated lenses minimise the levels of reflections, increase protection from scratches, smudges, dust and water, as well as protecting your eyes from UV and filtering out harmful Blue-Violet light. Daytime and nighttime eye sensitivity varies. At night, intense light sources cause glare, affecting rod cells and visual awareness. Crizal Drive reduces nighttime reflections by up to 90% at 507nm, where sensitivity is highest. This decreases glare, enhancing visual comfort for safer driving.

Interested in Night Time Lenses?

If you are interested in the Essilor Varilux Road Pilot lenses or Essilor Crizal Drive, then please get in touch and we can help you. You could then keep them in the car for all night time driving, giving your eyes the welcome comfort they need. They don’t just have to be used just when driving either, even if you are a passenger or out and about in the dark, these lenses will significantly improve your vision, keeping you safer.

Bifocal and varifocal lenses are a popular choice for individuals suffering from blurry vision. At certain ages (ahem!!) this will certainly happen to most of us! These types of lens provide clear vision at different distances, allowing users to see both objects near and far without having to switch between multiple glasses. However, adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses can take time. In this article, we will provide you with some useful tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses.

Bifocal and varifocal lenses are designed with multiple optical powers to correct both near and distant vision. Bifocal lenses have two distinct powers divided into two parts. One power is near and one far. The top part of the lens is for distance and the bottom is for near vision. Varifocals, also known as progressive lenses, have a more complex design than bifocals. They have three optical powers arranged in a gradient. Similarly to bifocal, the top of the lens is for viewing objects at a distance and the bottom is for near. The difference is the intermediate power positioned between them allowing for comfortable viewing at a variety of positions.

Expectations and patience

Before we get into any tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses, it is important we set some realistic expectations. It is incredibly common for people to experience some discomfort or difficulty when initially transitioning. Patience is essential during the adjustment period, as it can take a few days or even a couple of weeks to fully adapt.

Stick with it

The first tip we have to offer is to stick with it! As with any change, adjusting to bifocal and varifocal lenses takes time for your brain to become accustomed to the new visual experience. It is common for people to feel slightly disorientated or have difficulty finding the right focus at the start. You must not let that discourage you. Thankfully, our brains are incredibly plastic, meaning it is excellent at adapting to change. Remember, you are learning a new way of seeing and this could take time.

During the adjustment period, it is essential you don’t give up! It is always a tempting option to switch back to your old glasses or avoid your new lenses altogether. However, doing so will only extend the time it takes. We guarantee that over time things will become clearer and more comfortable.

Wear them as much as possible

Another tip for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses would be to wear them as much as possible. The more you wear your lenses, the faster your eyes will adapt to them. By wearing your new glasses consistently you can learn the correct head and eye positioning to see clearly at different distances. Your eyes will quickly become familiar with the lens and will allow your brain to learn. So, embrace the process and wear your lenses as much as possible to experience the full benefits of improved vision at different distances.

Head positioning

To utilise the different zone of your bifocal or varifocal lenses, it’s important you adjust your head position as opposed to your eyes. For objects in the distance, keep your head level and eyes straight forward. However, for close-up tasks such as reading or writing, lower your chin slightly and look through the dedicated reading zone of eyeglass lenses. Correcting your head position will optimise your vision and minimise distortion.

Maintaining regular eye exams

Just because your blurred vision has been fixed by your new glasses, doesn’t mean you can stop visiting your opticians. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining good eye health and ensuring optimal vision. Scheduled regular appointments with your optometrists to monitor any changes in your prescription and address any concerns you might have.

Want to arrange a regular eye exam?

If you have any questions about these tips for adjusting to bifocal or varifocal lenses feel free to get in touch. Give the practice a call on 01323 442 062, email or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you are suffering from any eye conditions don’t hesitate to book an eye exam. We are more than happy to take care of you and your vision, feel free to book an examination today.,

If you struggle to focus at a distance or up close, then you will probably need some glasses to correct your vision. Bifocal and varifocal are two of the most popular options for correcting both near and farsightedness at the same time. These lenses have evolved a lot over the last couple of decades and are pretty sophisticated now. In this blog, we are going to discuss the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses and help you figure out which may be the better option for you. Obviously, if you don’t know, then please come in and chat with us.

Both options have two distinct optical powers allowing the user to see objects clearly at different distances. The main difference between bifocal and varifocal is the way in which the optical powers are arranged on the lens.

What are Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses have two distinct powers divided into two parts. One power is near and one far. The top part of the lens is for distance and the bottom is for near vision.

The largest benefit of bifocal lenses is their ability to correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness in a single pair of glasses. They are also typically the more affordable option out of the two. On the flip side, the biggest disadvantage of bifocal lenses is the lack of intermediate power. For some people, this may not be an issue if they do not struggle at multiple distances. However, if you do, you will want to look at varifocal lenses. There is also a little bit of an adjustment period as you need to learn to look through the correct part of the lens depending on how the distance an object is from your eyes.

Bifocal lenses are usually prescribed to people suffering from presbyopia, a condition in which their eyes lose their ability to focus on nearby objects.

 

What are Varifocal Lenses

Varifocals, also known as progressive lenses, have a more complex design than bifocal. They have three optical powers arranged in a gradient. Similarly to bifocal, the top of the lens is for viewing objects at a distance and the bottom is for near. The difference is the intermediate power positioned between them allowing for comfortable viewing at a variety of positions.

The biggest benefit of varifocal lenses is their ability to provide a more natural transition between different optical powers, making it easier to adjust to wearing them. The ability to see clearly at a range of distances makes for a more natural and complete viewing experience. What’s more, your optician can adjust the lens to precisely position the powers in the correct position for your eyes. However, like with bifocals, they can take some time to get used to and the more gradual transition of power can be quite disorientating for some.

Which is better: Bifocal or Varifocal

The answer to this question depends wholeheartedly on your personal preferences and your vision needs. Bifocal lenses are a great choice and are often recommended to those whose vision is deteriorating from a single-distance sight. If you find that you’re struggling to read things close up like your phone or a book, bifocals are again a great choice which will allow you to wear the same pair throughout the day.

If you find that you struggle with more than one distance of vision, the varifocals are going to be the far better option. By combining all of your prescription lenses you won’t need more than one pair of glasses for your day-to-day life.

If you have a conversation with your optometrist they can properly advise you on what options will be better for your eyes.

Get in Touch

If you have any more questions about the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses or feel as though you need a pair of prescription glasses then don’t hesitate to get in touch. Give the practice a call on 01323 442 062, email or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you are suffering from any eye conditions don’t hesitate to book an eye exam. We are more than happy to take care of you and your vision, feel free to book an examination today.

Here at Focus Medical Eye Centre, we understand how important it is to choose the right pair of glasses. that not only enhance your vision but also complement your overall appearance. There is a fair amount to take into consideration when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of glasses for you, the main of course being the colour!  This might not be as easy as it initially sounds, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the best decision. Read on to find some tips on how to choose the right colour frames for your eye colour:

Brown Eyes

Brown eyes are the most common among humans, but when styled correctly can be the most alluring. If you have brown eyes, frame colours such as gold, honey, and brown will always enhance the natural warmth in your eyes. Cool tones like blues and greens can also complement brown eyes well and make them appear brighter. You should try to avoid frames that are too dark, as they can overpower the lovely warmth in your eyes. Despite this, any colour glasses tend to look great with brown eyes.

Blue Eyes

 

For those with beautiful blue eyes, earthy tones such as brown, beige, and green can make your eyes pop. Additionally, a bright orange, the complementary colour to blue, can suit your eyes wonderfully. We do often advise against frames with a blue tint as they can blend in too much with your eye colour. Many times they can make your eyes appear dull and cause them to not stand out as much as we all would like.

Grey Eyes

For the 3% of you reading with grey eyes, you can choose frames in warm colours such as gold and brown to complement the natural hue of your eyes. You can also opt for frames in cool tones like pale blue or green to bring out the grey in your eyes. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous you can go for a bright and bold colour. While this may seem like a large step to make, due to the natural tone of your eyes, it will almost always work!

Green Eyes

Green-eyed individuals can choose frames in shades of purple and red to make a statement. This is a bold colour choice but can look fantastic when done right. You can also opt for frames in neutral tones such as brown, beige, and gold to complement your eye colour’s natural hue. If you’re wanting to play it safe, then darker tones can be a great option. They won’t detract from the great colour of your eyes, but they also won’t emphasise it.

Hazel Eyes

If you have hazel eyes, you can choose frames in shades of green and brown to complement the different tones of your eyes, which can switch from brown to green depending on the lighting. The key is to select colours that enhance your natural features rather than take away from them. Like brown and green eyes, warm-toned frames in gold and copper can also help enhance your hazel eyes. On the other hand, frames that are too dark may overshadow the natural beauty of your eyes, so you may want to consider a more subtle look.

Frame colours that work for everyone

Black frames will often be a safe bet, no matter your eye colour. They will likely go well with both your outfit and eyes. It is unlikely they will detract massively from your eye colour, however, they will do very little in terms of emphasising them. A transparent or clear frame, however, is often a great choice. Clear frames will blend with your skin tone and do a wonderful job of showcasing your eyes.

Regardless of the advice we’ve offered in this blog, you will always look better in glasses that make you feel confident. Take your time to find the right option that works for you. You need to fall in love with your glasses or you simply will not want to wear them, potentially causing damage to your eyes.

Get in touch

We understand how big of an effect the colour of your frames can have on your overall appearance. If you bear in mind the tips above for your eyes you can make an informed decision, instead of taking random shots in the dark. When you work with us, we make it our goal to see you leave in a pair of glasses you feel comfortable and confident in. Glasses can easily make or break a look, so choosing the right pair for you is key if you want to enhance your own style.

If you’re looking to get a new pair of glasses fitted come and visit us at Focus Medical Eye Centre. We will take our time to ensure you select the style and colour of frame that is right for you. Trial and error are key so we invite you to try on different colours and shapes until you find the perfect fit. To arrange a visitation give us a call at 01323 442 062 or email info@focusmedicaleyecentre.co.uk and a member of the team will be in touch shortly.

This week marks the official start of winter. For many of us, winter is a challenging couple of months, especially if you already suffer from dry eyes. The cold and dry air can take a serious toll on our eyes. Thankfully, there are several tried and tested methods you can employ to protect your eyes this winter.

Having healthy eyes is such an important aspect of life. During the warmer months having healthy eyes is something many people take for granted. Here are a few tips for keeping your eyes healthy this winter:

Remain hydrated all year round

Being hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective to control your dry eyes. Just because you’re not out and about getting all sweaty as you do in summer doesn’t mean you cannot become dehydrated.

Dehydration, among other things, can lead to uncomfortable and dry eyes. If your body is well hydrated then your eyes are going to hopefully produce an adequate amount of tears to maintain lubrication. There are additional benefits to drinking lots of water such as reducing eye strain. Typically, when you’re dehydrated your eyes being to feel tired and strained, especially with the darker days coming into effect on your body’s circadian cycle. You can reduce these fatigue symptoms by simply drinking more water.

Contact lens wearers as well as some of our more senior customers often comment their eyes feel drier and this is quite normal. Dry atmospheres can cause a reaction, but damp conditions can as well. Lubricating eye drops are perfect to keep them feeling comfortable as well as lubricated.

Lubricating eye drops

Lubricating drops are a type of over-the-counter medication that provides relief to dry irritated eyes. The cold wind and air cause irritation and for your eyes to dry out. This often leads to you rubbing your eyes a bit more, which may cause long lasting damage. It’s common for optometrists to recommend lubrication drops as the first call of action. For many people, these drops are used on a regular basis, particularly around this time of year. At Focus Medical Eye Centre, we stock different types of drops that we recommend to our customers.

Protect your eyes this winter

One of the best things you can do to protect your eyes is to think about the environment you’re in. If possible, you should try to make your environment as warm and dry as you can. If you have a need to go outside then a pair of sunglasses or glasses with UV protection will protect you from some of the elements.

One item that would be great to put on your Christmas list if you suffer from dry eyes around this time of year would be a humidifier. Humidifiers are devices that release steam or water vapour into the air increasing the humidity within your rooms. This may reduce the symptoms of irritation you are experiencing.

Visit a professional

If you find yourself having persistent dry eyes or any other symptoms around this time of year, then it’s important you get in touch with a professional. By booking in with your local optometrist you can arrange for an evaluation of your eyes and vision to be carried out. This can help to diagnose any underlying conditions and bring light to some potential treatment options. Here at Focus Medical Eye Centre, we are always willing to offer guidance where possible. Whether it is for a new pair of spectacles, sunglasses, lenses or just some drops to calm and lubricate your eyes. Please call us today on 0800 980 34 64 or email us at info@focusmedicaleyecentre.co.uk.

Having 2 pairs of glasses might seem excessive or an unnecessary expense. However, if you’ve found yourself in a situation where you are in dire need of a second pair of glasses, you will know exactly how valuable they truly are.

Glasses are one of those items that we use on an extremely regular basis; for some, every minute of their waking life. It’s unfortunate to think about but they can quite easily be misplaced or damaged. If you’re someone who relies upon glasses for reading, driving or just everyday life then you’re always just one mistake away from a big problem. We like to see the second pair of glasses as an insurance policy if anything goes wrong.

Plus don’t forget some people need different strength lenses for different types of vision! Close or computer work, plus perhaps longer vision such as driving, playing sport and even some for very close up and really magnified work!

Accidents Happen

Even for the most careful and cautious of people, accidents are a part of life. Being an opticians we’ve heard it all, when arranging replacements or repairing lenses. We know, first-hand, how easy it is for glasses to be dropped, sat on or damaged in many other incidences. A cracked lens or a bent frame might take several days to get repaired.

Before you can even start the process of getting your glasses repaired you often have to book an appointment, and we all know how difficult that can be at times! That means struggling through a week or so of wearing uncomfortable glasses and not being able to see properly.

Easy to Misplace

As we mentioned, even the most attentive of people still lose items and glasses are one of the most common things to lose. Despite most of the time them being found on top of your head, on occasion! You can easily be driven crazy rummaging through bags and turning your house upside down in search of your precious glasses.

Being an item that you are constantly taking on and off losing them comes with the territory. How many times do you wander around the house trying to find where you put your specs! A second pair of glasses will not only help you cope until they turn up but they’ll also assist you in finding the missing pair. Believe us, there’s nothing worse than looking for something when your vision is impaired.

They make vision more comfortable

Owning multiple pairs of glasses, each with their own use, can make you life much more comfortable. For example, if you spend hours a day sitting in front of a screen then you might want to invest in a pair of blue light lenses. Some experts have suggested that too much exposure to blue light, emitted from digital screens, can damage the light-sensitive cells in the retina. So, having a layer of protection could be beneficial.

More information about blue light and how it affects your eyes.

Alternatively, if you play a sport or do any other activities that could put your glasses at risk then it’s a good idea to own a second pair; who knows when the worst is going to happen. We would advise against using your main glasses whilst partaking in these sorts of activities and instead opting for a stronger, more durable pair, maybe with a head attachment so they don’t fly off at an inopportune moment! Not only are these going to be less likely to break, but they’re also an important safety precaution you can take in terms of ensuring your eye safety and protection.

To Make a Fashion Statement

One of the more fun reasons to have a second pair is to make a fashion statement. People will often have multiple pairs of glasses for different looks or situations. Most people have a daily “go to” pair for everyday activities. It’s also common for people to have a more sophisticated pair, saved for more special occasions such as weddings or business meetings. What’s less common but still seen are statement pieces. A pair of bold glasses in a funky pattern or shape can cause a huge boost in confidence.

50% off Lenses on a Second Pair of Glasses

Here at Focus Medical Eye Centre, we understand that one pair of spectacles is never quite enough. So as a thank you for supporting your local independent opticians we offer 50% off lenses on second pair purchases.

More information about this 50% off promotion.

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