Quality Assurances In The Prescription Eyewear Industry

At Penticton Optical, we understand the importance of providing our clients with the highest quality prescription eyewear. We strive to ensure that our customers receive products that meet their visual needs and exceed their expectations. In this blog, we will discuss the key factors to consider when evaluating the quality of prescription eyewear, including lenses, frames, and contact lenses. By being aware of these factors, you can make informed decisions and have confidence in the quality of your eyewear.

Quality Assurances for Prescription Lenses:

When examining your prescription lenses, consider the following factors in evaluating their quality:

• Clarity of the lens: Inspect the lenses for any visible scratches that may affect your vision and overall comfort. High-quality lenses should be scratch-resistant to maintain clarity and durability.
• Lens defects: Look for any abnormalities, such as bubbles, distortions, or uneven coatings on the lenses. These defects can impact your visual acuity and should be addressed to ensure optimal performance.
• Visual acuity while looking through the lens: The primary goal of prescription eyewear is to provide clear and sharp vision. Ensure that the lenses allow you to see as well as your prescription expects.

Quality Assurances for Progressive Lenses:

If you opt for progressive lenses, pay attention to the following aspects to assess their quality:

• Verifying Rx with one eye open - just don’t do it: It is crucial to verify your prescription with both eyes open, as the prescription is designed for binocular vision. Trying to evaluate the prescription quality by closing one eye can lead to inaccurate and frustrating expectations. If a prescription were to be designed for each eye individually, the eyes may not work together when both eyes are open. 
• Progressive lens nasal and peripheral distortion: Progressive lenses are NOT created equal. High-quality lenses should minimize such distortions, providing a more natural visual experience.

Ensuring Quality in Prescription Eyewear:

To confirm that you are receiving high-quality prescription eyewear, consider the following indicators:

• Visual acuity: Quality eyewear should allow you to see clearly, with very little visual disturbances or compromises.
• Lenses are clear: Ensure that your lenses are free from cloudiness, haziness, or any other signs of reduced transparency.
• Lenses have no inclusions within the coating: Examine the lenses for any particles or inclusions trapped within the coating. These imperfections can affect the overall quality and longevity of your eyewear.

Questions to Determine Quality:

To gain better insight into the quality of your prescription eyewear, ask the following questions:

• Which are the most suitable lenses based on your lifestyle and visual requirements? While we would love it if one pair worked for ALL situations, rarely does this happen. We can make multiple pair options affordable based on your needs.
• What coatings are better for scratch resistance? Inquire about different lens coatings available for scratch resistance, and choose the one that aligns with your preferences and needs.
• Does my prescription match the frame I would like? Ensure that your prescription is compatible with the frame you desire. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect combination of prescription vs frame choice.

Signs of Poor Quality and When to Seek Alternatives:

Be cautious of the following factors indicating poor quality and consider exploring alternative options:

• If coatings are breaking down within six months: Coatings should last for an extended period without showing signs of deterioration. Premature breakdown can suggest subpar quality or an opportunity for further education on proper lens care.
• Poor aftercare with services and products: If you experience inadequate customer service or unsatisfactory aftercare for your prescription eyewear, it may be a sign to seek a provider who prioritizes quality and customer satisfaction.
• Rude and unapproachable staff: Quality assurance extends beyond the products themselves. If you encounter impolite or unhelpful staff, it may reflect a lack of commitment to providing high-quality service and poor long-term care.

Quality Assurances for Frames:

In addition to lenses, the quality of frames is vital in ensuring long-lasting and comfortable eyewear. Consider the following factors when assessing frame quality:

• Spring hinges: Frames with spring hinges can provide additional flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage and enhancing durability.
• Frame alignment: Check if the frames are properly aligned, ensuring a balanced fit and comfortable wear.
• Reinforced temples: Frames with reinforced temples (metal bar with plastic all the way around instead of clear plastic with no bar reinforcing the temple) offer added strength and stability, prolonging the lifespan of your eyewear. 

Quality Assurances for Contact Lenses:

For clients opting for contact lenses, evaluate the following aspects to ensure quality:

• Is the box intact and damage free: Examine the packaging of contact lenses for any signs of damage or tampering. Intact packaging ensures the safety and integrity of the lenses.
• Pay less attention to packaging variations: While the packaging design may differ, it is more important to focus on the consistency of the information provided and the credibility of the manufacturer. They may be upgrading their packaging, so you may end up with an older design, but still effective in their use.
• Most important factors: When determining the quality of contact lenses, prioritize factors such as fit, comfort, visual acuity, and recommended wear time over price. 

Additional Tips:

Cleanliness of staff, store, and products: A clean and hygienic environment demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism.

To conclude, understanding the factors that assure quality in the prescription eyewear industry empowers you to make informed decisions when selecting your eyewear. At Penticton Optical, we prioritize the quality of our products and services to ensure your complete satisfaction. By paying attention to the points mentioned in this blog, you can confidently evaluate the quality of your prescription eyewear, whether it be lenses, frames, or contact lenses. Trust our experienced team to guide you through the process and provide you with the highest quality eyewear that meets your unique needs.

Get in touch with us today!

For a complete list of our services, please click here. If you have any questions, we’d love to hear from you. For more information, please call us at (250) 492-4392 or email us at pentictonoptical@shaw.ca.