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Trends in eyewear for kids

Kids in glassesEvery year the return to the classroom brings in several young patients who are choosing glasses for the first time or need to update their old pairs. Eyewear is much more than a fashion accessory, but choosing frames that suit your child’s sense of style makes wearing them a lot more fun. Following are some of the latest trends in eyewear for kids.

  • Color rules! Many eyewear designers are showing styles in a range of fun colors for kids of all ages. Styles favored by boys tend to feature rectangular lenses, while the girls are gravitating toward cat-eye and round shapes.
  • Classic designs that are also popular with adults are a favorite with older kids especially.
  • Younger kids are often won over by styles from brands they are familiar with like Disney, Stride Right and even Marvel Comics.
  • Fashion-oriented brands like Guess and Lucky are a hit with preteens and teens.
  • Durability is always in style! Features like flexible frames, spring hinges and polycarbonate lenses appeal to both parents and kids.

For more information about helping you child choose eyewear, check out our recent post on making the transition to glasses successful.

Second pairs — a great investment in your eyes

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Do you work on a computer? Enjoy time outdoors? Spend a good portion of time driving?

If you wear glasses and do any of these things, you might consider getting a second pair.

When it comes to having an extra pair of glasses, convenience is important, but there are other reasons to build your eyewear collection.

Computer work. People spend time in front of computer screens more than ever before, and for many patients it’s mandatory for their jobs. Unfortunately, computer eye strain is a common outcome.

There are two primary ways that computer work impacts vision. One is that computer screens are situated in what is called the “intermediate” zone for vision. Most vision correction addresses distance or near vision, not intermediate, so there is a good chance your current prescription isn’t quite right for computer work. Second is that computers emit “blue light,” which studies indicate is harmful to the eyes because of its high level of UV rays.

Glasses specially prescribed for computer work factor in the typical distance of a monitor or laptop screen and include tints to reduce glare and block blue light. They are an ideal solution for anyone who spends four or more hours on the computer most days of the week.

Time spent outdoors. While photochromatic lenses that darken when exposed to UV rays are an option for people who wear glasses, a second pair in the form of prescription sunglasses is sometimes preferred. Contact lens wearers should consider opting for prescription sunglasses in places like the beach and the pool, where contacts can be less convenient.

Time spent behind the wheel. One place that photo chromatic lenses aren’t as effective as prescription sunglasses is in the car. Because the windshield blocks a certain amount of UV rays, these lenses do not darken enough for most drivers’ comfort. Prescription sunglasses do a better job of reducing glare while driving.

Participation in sports. The vast majority — an estimated 90 percent — of sports-related eye injuries are preventable. If you wear glasses and participate in sports, make sure you have the proper eyewear. Most protective eyewear for sports is made of impact-resistant polycarbonate, which also offers the bonus of being UV protective, and has features to boost comfort and wearability during the action.

To make it easier on our patients, we offer 20 percent off second pairs. This is also a great way to use any healthcare flex spending funds you have. Please schedule an appointment if you’d like to talk more about your second pair needs.

*Photo courtesy of usamedeniz/freedigitalphotos.net.