High-Index Lenses

High-performance precision meets stylish comfort

Stronger optical prescriptions have long been associated with bulky, unfashionable lenses. However, thick, unfashionable eyewear is no longer required to correct vision problems. High-index lens designs allow wearers to sport ultra-thin, lightweight frames that address extreme nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and other ocular issues.

IOT’s innovative lens designs use cutting-edge intelligence to correct vision. Our proprietary designs can reduce aberrations, improve image stability, and enhance peripheral clarity. All of our high-powered optical technologies are compatible with high-index lenses, giving wearers access to high-performance eyewear that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Versatile, lightweight solutions for strong prescriptions

High-index lenses are primarily used to offer comfortable, sophisticated lenses for wearers with high prescriptions. High-index lenses are extraordinarily adept at bending light. This refractive efficiency means they require less material density to provide excellent visual correction.

With refractive indexes from 1.59-1.74, high-index lenses are thinner and lighter than other popular plastic lens materials. For example, a high-index lens with a refractive index of 1.67 will be about 20% thinner than a polycarbonate lens with the same prescription and 30% thinner than a CR-39 lens with the same prescription.

Benefits for labs

1.	Expanded market reach: Market your lenses to all wearers, regardless of prescription strength.
2.	Premium cosmetic offering: Attract fashion-conscious consumers with ultra-thin, stylish lenses that enhance satisfaction.
3.	Increased profit margins: High-index lenses come at a higher price point, allowing labs to boost profit margins by offering premium options.
4.	Reduced material waste: Thinner high-index lenses use less material, improving efficiency and lowering production costs.

Benefits for wearers

1.	Advanced vision correction: Comfortable correction for prescriptions up to ±8.00 with high-index lenses.
2.	Lightweight and aesthetically pleasing: Thinner lenses reduce edge thickness for nearsightedness and center thickness for farsightedness.
3.	UV protection: Built-in protection from harmful UV rays.
4.	Versatility: Suitable for progressive, photochromatic, and occupational lenses.

Drawbacks of Hi-Index Lenses

1.	Reduced impact resistance: More fragile and prone to chipping compared to materials like polycarbonate or Trivex.
2.	Lower optical clarity: Susceptible to chromatic aberrations and distortions due to lower Abbe values.
3.	Higher costs: Premium pricing may deter cost-conscious consumers.

How do hi-index lenses compare to other materials?

When compared to other plastic materials, high-index material’s distinguishing feature is its ability to maintain thin, lightweight lenses at high prescriptions.

Ideal prescription: +/-4.00

CR-39, polycarbonate, and Trivex lenses will all result in thicker lenses but do offer individual benefits that may influence a consumer’s choice.

CR-39 for superior optical clarity

With a high Abbe value (~58), CR-39 minimizes dispersion and chromatic aberrations, reducing “halos” around light sources for better visual precision. While it resists scratching, it is more prone to breaking than other plastics.

Polycarbonate for impressive durability

Nearly shatterproof, polycarbonate is ideal for children and active lifestyles, providing excellent impact resistance for sports and safety eyewear. However, it offers lower optical performance compared to CR-39 and Trivex.

Trivex for high-performance balance

Trivex delivers strong impact resistance and optical clarity near that of CR-39, making it great for rimless glasses. It is the lightest lens material, ensuring comfort and style. However, its low refractive index may limit its suitability for some prescriptions.

Explore IOT’s dynamic lens technologies

At IOT, we are building the future of ophthalmic lenses through creating sophisticated and innovative solutions. Our industry-leading designs emphasize clarity, comfort, and protection, providing wearers with intelligent visual correction.

From occupational lenses that offer maximum performance in intermediate and near zones to premium lenses adapted for daytime and night driving, our designs are engineered to make every aspect of life clearer.

Our lens technologies are available in all plastic materials, including high-index lenses. Contact us to further explore the transformative solutions offered by an IOT partnership.