To improve the optical characteristics and increase the comfort of use, special coatings are applied to the glasses - polarizing and anti-reflective. These products are in demand among motorists, since clarity of vision is important when driving, guaranteeing safe movement. From the article you will learn how anti-glare glasses differ from polarized ones.
Effect of monitor radiation on the eyes
The reasons for this phenomenon lie in the peculiarities of the perception of the monitor by the human eye. When we read printed works, the text and pictures have clear outlines, but the monitor includes many flickering pixels. Therefore, the text on the monitor does not seem clear enough to the eye.
Focusing your gaze is also made more difficult by the fact that the pixels near the center of the screen are brighter than those located at the edges. Such dissonance provokes rapid fatigue of the visual system. In addition, vision is affected by the intensity of the glow, font features, the location of blocks with information, colors and even the position of the monitor.
To prevent vision deterioration, you need to constantly follow the rules for working at the computer, monitor your posture and the location of the monitor (60-70 cm from the eyes). Every hour you need to take a break and do eye exercises. To avoid drying out of the mucous membrane, you can use moisturizing drops. For a prescription you need to contact a specialist.
Using even the most secure and modern monitor, a person still blinks 2-3 times less often than usual. This leads to drying out of the cornea and the formation of microcracks. The presence of damage to the mucous membrane causes discomfort and over time provokes a decrease in visual function.
Even with a slight deterioration in vision, you need to undergo an examination and find out the cause. If the deterioration occurs due to computer use, you can purchase special glasses that minimize the harm.
Optics by eye, but not by eye
Need I say that a “sharp eye” is the first priority for a driver?! It seems obvious! No matter how it is! Talk to ophthalmologists and your hair stands on end. It turns out that most of the motorists who contact them, who have less than ideal vision, do not even think about the need to wear glasses. Low-blind drivers have somehow adapted, adapted and feel very confident behind the wheel, ignoring the fact that they have vision problems. But this confidence is deceptive, and you can pay dearly for it. For example, ailments such as retinal dystrophy, damage to the optic nerve and, of course, refractive errors (even small ones) can lead to a deterioration in the ability to distinguish objects located to the side. What can lead to impaired peripheral vision while driving is clear to everyone without further ado.
Contrast sensitivity of the eyes is also extremely important for drivers, which allows them to distinguish low-contrast images (for example, pedestrians at night), correctly determine the mutual speed of all road users, etc. Many people have difficulty driving at dusk or in fog. All these problems can be solved by properly selected glasses or contact lenses.
Difference between polarized and anti-glare glasses
It is noteworthy that even in optical shops these types of optical systems are often confused. In order to understand these concepts, you need to know what glare is. And highlights are spots of light that are observed on a convex or flat glossy surface that reflects light. It turns out that any surface can create glare (at a certain angle, as well as with proper lighting), even the lenses of glasses.
Polarization of light is a more complex concept. It occurs when light hits a surface at a certain angle and is reflected and propagated primarily horizontally and vertically. Vertical polarization of light conveys information to a person about colors, contrast, etc., while horizontal polarization creates noise, glare, interference and blind spots. And the higher the ability of a surface to reflect light, the more glare will affect vision.
Glare occurs at any time of the year. This occurs when light is reflected from snow, water, and even in foggy conditions. In conditions of poor visibility, glare reduces visual acuity by distorting colors, shapes, and contrast. All this provokes eye fatigue and corresponding discomfort.
Interestingly, reducing light intensity by wearing sunglasses does not reduce glare. Only polarized lenses that have a Polaroid coating can reduce the negative impact of glare from horizontal surfaces. The operating principle of the glasses is hidden in a transparent polarizing film that blocks reflected rays.
Polarized glasses eliminate glare and allow you to see the world around you clearly, without harming your vision. These glasses are recommended when driving vehicles, since bright glare can be blinding.
Anti-glare glasses are a different concept, since an anti-glare surface means one that produces almost no shine and does not create glare. It is correct to call anti-reflective lenses those lenses that have a special coating that makes the optical system more transparent. Such glasses are also called anti-reflective or anti-reflex glasses.
Anti-reflective lenses are designed to provide light transmission and reduce the reflection of light directly from the glasses. This increases image contrast and visual acuity. If you look at a person wearing such glasses, you can see his eyes, and not the reflection in the glasses. It turns out that anti-glare glasses let in more light without causing glare, while polarized glasses block glare and let in less light.
If glasses, what kind?
Selected by a doctor . Under no circumstances should you make this choice yourself. This is a matter for an ophthalmologist, who should definitely be contacted before obtaining a license and in the coming months after starting to drive. And then - regularly, at least once a year.
With maximum correction . In ordinary life, a person with visual impairments can afford not to wear glasses at all or wear weaker lenses than required, but in the interior of a car they need “eyepieces” in which vision will be optimal.
Well fitting . The driver should not have to constantly or from time to time adjust his glasses that are sliding down his nose - this distracts him from the road and impairs his vision. Therefore, you should choose frames with high-quality nose pads and suitable size. The design of the frame is also important - the temples should be thin so as not to interfere with your view.
Made from durable material . For drivers, polymer lenses (plastic, fiberglass) are recommended, since they are lighter and do not break (the most durable materials are polycarbonate and various combined materials: Trivex, etc.). Although polymer lenses can change their properties over time, their optical properties are not inferior to glass lenses, which are prohibited for use by drivers. However, there are exceptions: the use of special technologies makes it possible to produce glass lenses that, when broken upon impact, do not crumble into small fragments.
Transparent . Any colored lens will block more light. Therefore, ideally, glasses should be transparent. It should be borne in mind that according to the international standard ISO 14889, lenses for driving a car with a light transmittance of less than 75% at night are not permitted, regardless of their color.
The principle of operation of anti-glare glasses for computers
The computer screen emits the full spectrum of light rays, but predominantly violet and blue waves overload the vision. They are part of ultraviolet radiation. It is also noteworthy that short-wave rays are refracted and scattered halfway to the retina, making way for green and yellow long-wave rays, and therefore the image on the screen often appears blurry. Interestingly, red rays are very useful; they restore metabolic processes in the eye tissue.
The benefit of anti-glare computer glasses is that they block violet and blue rays, protecting the retina and lens from ultraviolet radiation. Such optical systems protect the eyes from electromagnetic radiation from the monitor, as well as glare and excessive brightness.
Computer glasses are designed to transmit the red and orange parts of the spectrum, which have a beneficial effect on the visual organs. They also block short-wave – harmful – rays. Thus, contrast and color perception are increased.
Anti-glare glasses reduce drowsiness and increase performance by 30% (by reducing eye strain).
Rules for wearing and care
Despite the fact that the optics are resistant to damage, they must be handled with extreme care. Follow some recommendations for using anti-reflective products:
- Store polarized glasses in a hard case with a soft padding inside,
- Wipe the lenses with a special cloth (included in some models) or a soft cloth,
- Never clean dirty lenses using aggressive detergents. Only clean water may be used,
- Do not throw the product into a purse where other things are stored, without a case. Glasses can be easily scratched
- Clean your lenses regularly to prevent greasy streaks from appearing on them. They themselves create glare that even expensive glasses cannot cope with.
Indications for the use of anti-reflective lenses
In appearance, computer glasses do not differ from conventional optical systems with diopters. However, upon closer inspection, you will notice green, blue and purple tints on the surface of the lenses. This is due to the fact that a filtration coating is applied to the glasses of computer glasses, which reflects glare - the cause of decreased vision when working in front of a monitor. Computer glasses also have an antistatic layer that prevents the glass from being magnetized.
If a patient has reduced vision, doctors usually prescribe anti-glare glasses with diopters. It must be remembered that such glasses do not completely protect the eyes from negative influences, so you need to periodically take breaks from working at the computer. To minimize the harm from the monitor, it is enough to give your eyes a rest for fifteen minutes every hour. For these purposes, you can install a special program on your computer that will remind you of the need to take a break.
Computer glasses are recommended for those people who spend more than three hours a day in front of a monitor. Such optical systems are allowed for both adults and children.
Indications for the use of anti-glare glasses:
- regular and long-term use of technology with screens (phones, tablets, computers, etc.);
- tendency to dry out mucous membranes;
- sensation of cutting or burning;
- tearfulness;
- sand effect in the eyes;
- photophobia;
- redness;
- chronic eye fatigue.
Patients note that when wearing anti-glare glasses, their performance increases due to the fact that eye fatigue is reduced. With use, dryness and burning disappear, as well as pain from overexertion. The frequency of headaches and dizziness also decreases.
Review of the best models
Every year, more and more advanced models of anti-glare glasses are produced that transmit a smaller range of long-wave rays. In this case, it is necessary to distinguish between models for computer and driving.
For computer
At the moment, some of the best protective glasses for computers are considered models from the list below:
- Xiaomi Turok Steinhardt Anti-blue. These glasses are not intended to correct visual acuity. The lenses are yellow. They contain a special coating inside that prevents the glare from the monitor from affecting your eyes. There is also UV protection, so the glasses can be worn not only at the computer, but also on the street.
- Roidmi B1. The model is intended only for wearing at the computer, has an anti-reflective surface, and there is no ultraviolet protection. Lenses can be inserted to improve visual acuity.
- Roidmi Qukan W1. The model has frames of various colors, so you can choose it depending on your preferences. Not only is there a protective coating against glare, but also a protective coating that prevents scratches. The model is durable and does not suffer accidental damage.
- Gunnar Torpedo Amber Onyx. Glasses designed for people who use computer games for a long time. The model has a lightweight design and fits tightly on the head and behind the ears. When using glasses, a panoramic view is created.
If a person has reduced visual acuity, you should first consult with an ophthalmologist to find out which models can accommodate lenses for farsightedness and myopia, and which cannot.
For drivers
For drivers, many varieties of anti-glare glasses have also been developed, which are being improved more and more:
- Night view clip on. The glasses are intended for daily use. You can insert lenses into them that will improve vision function. Additionally, they contain a coating inside the lenses that improves the brightness and contrast of objects and protects the eyes from glare and ultraviolet rays. With frequent use, glasses prevent eye fatigue, the effect of bright headlights, and you can see well both day and night.
- Polaroid. One of the most popular brands for glasses. They produce high-quality models that effectively prevent glare from affecting the eyes. You can choose models both for vision correction and without this function. Prices range from the cheapest frames and lenses to the most expensive.
- SP Glasses. These models of anti-glare glasses were developed by ophthalmologists. Therefore, they effectively prevent the effects of glare on the eyes, and they are clearly visible in clear weather and cloudy weather. The manufacturer is of high quality.
Many people suffer from reduced visual acuity. In order not to use several types of glasses, you can order a model that will immediately correct this deficiency and additionally prevent the impact of negative environmental factors on the eyes.
How to choose anti-glare glasses for work and everyday life
You should always remember that even with minor health problems, it is always better to consult a doctor. Despite the simplicity and safety of anti-glare glasses, it will be better if they are prescribed by an ophthalmologist. This is due to the fact that during the examination the doctor can identify a serious deviation and prescribe treatment in a timely manner. Stinging and redness often accompany eye inflammation.
When choosing anti-glare glasses, you need to consider the following factors:
- Frame characteristics. For your own comfort, you need to choose a frame that will suit the patient’s face shape and taste. You also need to ensure that the frame does not put pressure on the bridge of your nose or ears.
- Image quality. Glasses should not distort the picture, enlarge or reduce objects, or narrow your horizons.
When the patient does not have vision problems, the doctor can prescribe ordinary “pacifiers”, the glass of which will be covered with a protective anti-reflective layer. Anti-reflective lenses are made of plastic and glass. Plastic ones get scratched quite quickly, but they are recommended for children, since under pressure they do not break into fragments and do not injure the eyes.
Types of lenses for anti-glare glasses:
- Monofocal. Thanks to such lenses, normal perception of objects is ensured without distortion of size. Such optical systems are suitable for people with normal vision. Their task is to reduce eye fatigue, they prevent deterioration of vision and even poor posture. Thanks to monofocal lenses, headaches and neck discomfort disappear. These glasses are most often prescribed to young and old people.
- Bifocal. These lenses have two optical zones: the upper one is designed for studying objects on the monitor, and the lower one helps to see objects at close range.
- Multifocal (progressive). These lenses have three optical zones for different operating modes (computer, near, far). These glasses provide the most comfortable use of modern technology.
When choosing glasses, be sure to study the product documentation. This way you can protect yourself from buying a fake, which may well be harmful to your eyes. Products from German, Japanese and Swiss manufacturers are recognized as the highest quality. Chinese lenses are less effective and durable, but are sold at an affordable price.
You need to remember that even the most expensive monitor does not provide eye protection. Therefore, anti-glare glasses will be indispensable for anyone who spends a lot of time in front of a computer or TV. You can always choose a frame that will make your glasses not only useful, but also stylish.
Types of safety glasses
Bifocal lenses are designed in such a way that the upper half is adjusted to focus on a computer monitor, and the lower segment is adjusted for close-range viewing. These lenses have a visible border separating two optical zones. Bifocal lenses allow you to comfortably view your computer screen and read up close, while making distant objects appear blurry.
Bifocal lens design
Progressive lenses are similar in appearance to regular monofocal lenses, as they do not have clear boundaries between optical zones. However, progressive lenses provide three viewing segments. The top zone is for distance, the wide intermediate zone is for viewing a computer monitor, and the small zone at the bottom of the lens is for focusing on close objects.
Progressive lenses are the most comfortable because they allow the user to see clearly at any distance without experiencing discomfort.
Outdoors in sunny weather, computer glasses reliably protect against ultraviolet rays. It turns out that the benefits from them are double. Ultraviolet rays damage the retina, which can lead to the formation of a burn with further consequences in the form of retinal dystrophy and the formation of glaucoma. Read here what to do if you have an eye burn.
Features of anti-glare glasses for drivers
If we talk about drivers, anti-glare glasses help them quickly restore their vision after being blinded by the headlights of oncoming cars. However, such lenses (with added diopters) are recommended only for drivers with reduced vision, since with normal vision any lenses reduce light transmission. Drivers will benefit from polarized lenses to reduce glare, but they should not be used at night or in bad weather.
Anti-headlight glasses will be much more effective when driving. These include yellow or yellow-orange lenses that block blue light. These glasses can be used at night and in bad weather, as they increase image contrast.
Considering all of the above, we can conclude that all computer users need anti-glare glasses. They will not only protect you from discomfort and eye fatigue, but will also help you avoid serious visual impairment.
Sources used:
- Kvasova M. D. Vision and heredity. - Moscow / St. Petersburg: Dilya, 2002.
- Refraction. Accommodation. Selection of points / B.G. Tovbin. — M.: YoYo Media
- Vision hygiene / V.I. Beletskaya, N.V. Shubina. — M.: Medicine
- First St. Petersburg State Medical University named after. acad. I.P. Pavlova
Characteristics
Anti-glare:
- On both sides the lens is covered with a film or treated with a special compound;
- They are used by motorists because they are able to eliminate the glare of headlights from oncoming cars;
- High light transmittance, loss coefficient does not exceed 0.6% (relevant for accessories with a high degree of refraction);
- Aesthetics, because they do not stand out when worn;
- There is no lens glare effect, relieves stress from the organs of vision;
- They have anti-reflective characteristics, resulting in a clear and bright image for the user.
Polarized:
- For production, polarizing material is used or a film with filtering characteristics is glued over the lens;
- Used in equipment for people professionally involved in alpine skiing;
- Bandwidth is inferior because the light stream is divided;
- Used to protect against glare by dampening excessive UV radiation;
- They do not strain your eyesight: they eliminate glare from the surface of a pond, wet asphalt or snow.