Progressive glasses

We often receive enquiries about varifocals, and in the post below we’ll try to answer some of the most common questions. If we’ve missed anything or if you still have any questions, you’re of course welcome to get in touch with us. Please feel free to pop into one of our shops in Stockholm – we’re located in Södermalm (Renstiernas gata 24) and Östermalm (Karlavägen 73) – and we’ll be happy to help you with any questions you may have about varifocals.

The post discusses the following:

• What are progressive glasses?
• Who needs varifocals?
• Can you buy varifocals online?
• How much do varifocals cost?
• Can I wear varifocal sunglasses?
• What are ‘spatial-progressive’ glasses?
• What are progressive glasses for young people?
• Are there progressive lenses?
• Can progressive glasses make you feel dizzy?
• How long does it take for your eyes to get used to new glasses?
• Are there any alternatives to varifocals?
• What should I bear in mind when choosing varifocals?

What are progressive glasses?

Progressive glasses are a type of glasses that have several different prescriptions in a single lens. They are designed to help you see clearly at different distances, both close up and far away. This means you don’t need to change your glasses.

Let’s say you find it difficult to read text at close range; perhaps you need to hold your book or mobile phone at a distance to see properly. But your vision is fine when you’re looking at something further away, such as when you’re driving. In that case, progressive glasses could be a good solution.

Progressive lenses feature a seamless transition between different powers, which means there are no visible lines on the lens, unlike with bifocal or trifocal lenses. The upper part of the lens helps you see at a distance, whilst the lower part is for close-up vision. This is also where we, as opticians, help to customise the lenses to suit the wearer through individual measurements.

So, if you have different requirements for near and far vision, varifocals could be a smart and practical choice!

Who needs varifocals?

Around the age of 40, you tend to find that your book and mobile end up a bit further away than before. It becomes more of a strain to read and focus at close range. Eventually, your arms aren’t long enough any more and you need to find another solution.

What we’re talking about, then, is presbyopia, which is a natural age-related change in the eye’s ability to focus at close range. In everyday language, we refer to this as ‘going short-sighted with age’.

Progressive glasses could be the solution for you. They help you see clearly both up close and at a distance. All in a single pair of glasses.

Others who may benefit from varifocals are those who already wear glasses for either near or far vision but are now finding that they are also starting to have problems with their vision at other distances. Instead of having one pair of reading glasses and another for distance vision, a pair of varifocals can make life easier. This is because they give you good vision at all distances without having to change glasses.

In summary, you need varifocals if:

• You find it difficult to focus at close range, but your vision is good at a distance.
• You’re looking for a convenient option that covers both near and far vision in a single pair of glasses.
• You’re fed up with having to switch between different pairs of glasses depending on what you’re looking at.

Progressive glasses are a comfortable and effective solution for managing the changes in vision that often come with age.

Can you buy varifocals online?

I’m sure that’s possible, but not with us. We simply don’t think the result would be good enough, and we’re very keen to ensure you’re satisfied.

Progressive glasses require very precise fitting and measurement of your eyes to work optimally. To enable us to carry out all the necessary measurements, you, as a customer, will need to visit the shop. The benefit for you as a customer is that you’ll receive a pair of glasses tailored to you and your vision pattern.

Let us help you with your new progressive glasses – book a thorough eye test that takes as long as necessary to ensure the best possible result. Book your eye test here.

How much do varifocals cost?

We offer varifocals in a range of price brackets. Regardless of this, for many people it can represent a significant investment. We fully respect this, and that is also why we want the result to be as good as it possibly can be. This is one reason why we do not sell progressive glasses online, as we would then be unable to ensure the glasses are as good as we believe they should be. If you choose to become a Brilliant customer, you’ll also have the option to spread the cost over monthly instalments.

The progressive lenses we offer in-store are as follows:

Can I wear varifocal sunglasses?

Yes, absolutely! You can certainly wear progressive sunglasses. Progressive sunglasses combine the practical benefits of standard progressive glasses with the protection from the sun that sunglasses offer. This means you can see clearly at all distances whilst protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays and glare.

Progressive sunglasses work in exactly the same way as ordinary progressive glasses, but with the added benefit that they are tinted to protect against sunlight. They are perfect for outdoor activities where you need to be able to read, see at intermediate distances and have clear distance vision, all whilst out in the sun.

For example, if you’re out for a walk and want to be able to read a map or your mobile phone, whilst also being able to see far ahead and enjoy the scenery, progressive sunglasses offer a convenient solution without you having to switch between different pairs of glasses or take your reading glasses on and off.

You can also choose from different levels of tint and even polarised lenses, which reduce glare from reflective surfaces such as water or snow. This makes progressive sunglasses ideal for activities such as driving, sailing, skiing or simply a day at the beach.

Every day, we custom-make a large number of tinted progressive glasses, allowing you to choose both the colour and the degree of tint. If you’re interested in tinted glasses, we recommend our previous blog post, where you can also see some of the colours available (here).

We can also offer photochromic (Transitions) varifocals (colour-changing). These lenses darken the more sunlight they are exposed to. Here too, you can choose the colour of the lenses.

What are ‘spatial-progressive’ glasses?

Progressive glasses, also known as near-progressive glasses, are a type of spectacle designed to provide optimal vision at close and intermediate distances, but not at a distance. They are particularly useful in indoor environments where you often need to see clearly at different distances within a room, such as when sitting at a computer, reading or attending meetings.

Unlike standard progressive glasses, which provide good vision from close up to far away, room-progressive glasses are optimised for a range extending from around 30 centimetres up to 3–4 metres. This means they are ideal for activities where you do not need to see into the distance, but where you need clear vision at close range and intermediate distances.

Examples of situations in which progressive glasses are useful:

• Office work: If you spend a lot of time at a computer and need to be able to see both the screen and read documents on your desk.
• At home: If you often read, do crafts, cook or carry out other activities where you need good vision at different distances within a room.
• Meetings and presentations: If you need to be able to read notes or documents whilst looking at people or screens further away in the room.

Room-progressive glasses provide a wider field of vision for these specific distances compared with standard progressive glasses, making them more comfortable to wear indoors, where long distances are not as important.

If you find that your standard varifocals do not quite provide the comfort and clarity you need when working or carrying out other indoor activities, indoor varifocals may be a good alternative. As we do not need to give as much consideration to distance vision, they can therefore be optimised more for near and intermediate distances.

What are progressive glasses for young people?

Progressive glasses for young people are a special type of glasses designed for those who need a little help seeing both close up and at a distance.

Just like standard progressive glasses, youth progressive glasses have a gradual transition between different strengths in the lenses.

Progressive Light?

In many cases, we’re talking about ‘light’ varifocals, and sometimes these can serve as an intermediate step when you’re starting to experience age-related long-sightedness but don’t quite need a pair of varifocals just yet. The lenses have a lower prescription strength at the bottom to relieve strain and support the eyes throughout the day. This is also why, in many cases, we refer to them as ‘relief lenses’ or ‘digital relief lenses’.

Progressive glasses for young people can be a good option for:

• Prevent and relieve eye strain: Many people spend a lot of time reading or using mobile phones and tablets, which can lead to eye strain. Progressive lenses for young people can help reduce this strain by providing the correct prescription for near vision.
• Make everyday life easier: These glasses can help you avoid having to switch between different pairs of glasses for different activities, making it easier and more convenient to go about your daily life.

Are there progressive lenses?

Yes, there are progressive lenses. Just like progressive glasses, progressive contact lenses are designed to correct your vision at several distances – near and far. This means you don’t need to change lenses or use reading glasses.

Progressive lenses, also known as multifocal lenses, have different powers within a single lens. This allows your eyes to switch focus between different distances.

It is important to note that it may take a little time to get used to progressive lenses, just as it does with progressive glasses.

Are there any drawbacks to progressive lenses?

We find that it is more difficult to achieve really good vision with progressive contact lenses than with progressive glasses. This is largely because the surface area of a contact lens is smaller than that of a spectacle lens. The contact lens also moves around in the eye, whereas a spectacle lens does not do so in the same way.

Reduced field of vision

If we compare them to progressive glasses, progressive contact lenses may have a slightly more restricted field of vision. This is because the surface area of the lens is smaller than that of a spectacle lens. The transition between the different powers is less pronounced. This can affect your ability to see clearly in certain situations, particularly in your peripheral vision.

It’s hard to find the right fit

Finding the right progressive lenses is often more complicated than finding the right standard (single-vision) lenses or, for that matter, the right spectacle lenses. As progressive lenses have multiple powers, they must fit the eye precisely to work optimally. It may take many attempts to find the right lenses and, unfortunately, sometimes it is not possible to find a pair that you will be completely satisfied with. Put simply, progressive lenses are not for everyone.

So what do you do?

Well, either you just have to grin and bear it and accept that the progressive contact lenses aren’t quite as good as glasses, or you simply stick to wearing progressive glasses. The contact lenses can serve as a complement to the glasses, for activities that are made easier by wearing them.

For some customers, we have solved this by using standard lenses (single vision) for those occasions or activities where lenses have been found to be the best option. In such cases, for example, the vision is corrected for distance but not for close-up vision. The need for crystal-clear vision on your mobile phone may not be particularly great whilst you’re playing sport. Afterwards, you can use varifocals to see clearly at both long and close range. Of course, it’s difficult for us to say exactly how this would work for you here, as it depends on both your specific needs and your vision problems, but we’re here to help you in the best way possible.

Can progressive glasses make you feel dizzy?

Yes, it is quite common to feel dizzy or experience a slight sense of imbalance when you first start wearing varifocals, particularly during the first few days or weeks. This is because varifocals have several different powers within a single lens, which means your eyes and brain need to adapt to focusing at different distances by using different parts of the lens.

Why do you get dizzy?

When you first start wearing varifocals, your eyes are not used to having to shift focus in the way that the glasses require. Some reasons why you might feel dizzy are:

1. Seamless transitions: Progressive lenses feature a gradual transition between different powers. This means you need to move your head or eyes to find the right strength for clear vision at different distances. This movement may initially cause dizziness, as the brain has to get used to interpreting this new type of visual signal.
2. Peripheral distortion: Some users find that the edges of the lenses, where the transition between different powers occurs, can cause slight distortion or blurred areas in their field of vision. This can lead to a feeling of imbalance or dizziness, particularly when you move your head or look to the sides.
3. Above, regarding glasses: If you have not previously worn glasses, or if you are switching from single-vision lenses to varifocals, the change may be more noticeable and cause a feeling of dizziness until you get used to them.

How can you reduce dizziness?

Most people get used to progressive glasses within a few days to a couple of weeks. Here are a few tips to help you adjust and reduce any dizziness:

• Wear your glasses regularly: Try to wear your progressive glasses as much as possible, even if they feel uncomfortable at first. Your eyes and brain need time to adjust. Stick with it!
• Avoid sudden head movements: Try to move your head rather than just your eyes when shifting your focus between different distances. This can help reduce the disorientating sensation of distortion.
• Adjust the position of your glasses: Make sure your glasses sit correctly on your nose and that the lenses are correctly aligned.
• Give it time: It’s normal for it to take a while to get used to varifocals. If the dizziness doesn’t subside after a few weeks, or if it’s causing you significant discomfort, you’re always welcome to pop in to see us for an adjustment or to discuss other options.

In summary, dizziness is a common side effect when you first start wearing progressive lenses, but with a little time and patience, most people get used to them and begin to appreciate the benefits of this type of lens.

How long does it take for your eyes to get used to new glasses?

It may take a little time to get used to progressive glasses, as your eyes need to learn to find the right part of the lens for each distance. But once you’ve got used to them, they offer a convenient solution that means you don’t have to keep switching between different pairs of glasses. It’s not unusual for it to take a couple of weeks to get used to them, but this obviously varies from person to person. Sometimes it happens more quickly, and sometimes it takes a little longer. It also depends on how much you actually wear the glasses.

Tips for getting used to your new glasses:

• Wear them constantly for the first few days.
• Avoid using old glasses at the same time.
• Practise walking up and down the stairs whilst looking straight ahead.
• Start in quiet environments.

Give yourself a fair chance to get used to your new glasses!

Are there any alternatives to varifocals?

It’s a question that’s difficult to answer in general terms. A lot depends on the nature of your particular vision problem, your budget and also how you intend to use your glasses.

We are often asked questions about various alternatives – both what they are and how they work. We have touched on some of these alternatives above, but examples might include:

Bifocal glasses
Bifocal glasses have two distinct powers. One for seeing at close range (e.g. reading or using a mobile phone) and one for seeing at a distance. These glasses have a visible line between the two powers, which distinguishes them from progressive glasses, which have a seamless transition. The line between the powers can be perceived as distracting and create an aesthetic impression that not everyone likes. It can also cause a noticeable shift between the powers, which can be difficult to get used to; as a result, progressive glasses are a much more popular choice here.

Trifocal glasses
: As above, but with three different strengths. Here, there are clear transitions between the strengths, whereas varifocals feel like a much more modern alternative.

Reading
glasses: A simple and inexpensive option if you only need correction for close-up vision. The downside is that you may find yourself putting them on and taking them off quite a lot. You also need to remember to take your reading glasses with you. If you also need correction for distance vision, you’ll need another pair of glasses.

Progressive lenses
: An option we looked at in more detail in the text above. They may be an option, but not for everyone.

Indoor progressive glasses
Indoor progressive glasses are also available as mentioned above and can be a good option for indoor use and office work. A pair of indoor progressive glasses is often complemented by a pair of standard progressive glasses.

What should I bear in mind when choosing varifocals?

We’re, of course, happy to help when it comes to choosing lenses. Part of it depends on the prescription you need, whilst other factors include your budget. How do you intend to use your glasses? How do you want them to look? When it comes to progressive lenses in particular, there’s also the question of how the lenses work and how smooth the transition is between near and far vision.

Here are a few points you might want to consider when choosing glass:

1. Type of glass

The first step is to decide what type of glass you need. There are several options here:

• Clear lenses: Standard lenses with no tint. Ideal if you want glasses for general use without any special effects.
• Photochromic lenses: These lenses change colour depending on the light conditions and act as a combination of ordinary glasses and sunglasses.
• Gradient lenses: These have a darker tint at the top and gradually become lighter towards the bottom. They offer both a stylish look and a relaxing visual experience.
• Sunglasses: For those who want ground lenses in their sunglasses frames.

2. Refractive index

If you have higher prescriptions (above ±3.0), it may be worth choosing lenses with a higher refractive index. This makes the lenses thinner and lighter, which not only improves comfort but also their appearance. For example, lenses with a refractive index of 1.6 or 1.67 are around 30–50 per cent thinner than standard lenses.

3. Surface treatments

The surface treatment on the lenses is crucial to how they perform in everyday life. A good surface treatment reduces glare and makes the lenses more scratch-resistant, as well as dirt- and water-repellent. This can improve both your visual comfort and the durability of the lenses​.

4. Scope of application

Think about how and when you use your glasses. If you wear them all day, you should opt for high-quality lenses with a good coating and, perhaps, photochromic properties. If you only wear your glasses occasionally, you might be able to choose a simpler option​.

Let us help you with your new glasses

If it’s been a while since you had an eye test, or if you feel that your eyesight has changed, the first step is to have an eye test.

With highly qualified staff, cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to customer service, we carry out your eye examination in Södermalm and Östermalm in Stockholm. We use AI technology to scan for early signs of eye conditions, measure intraocular pressure and take photographs of the back of your eye. We also have an OCT scanner, a facility few others can boast. All this ensures that you, as our customer, receive the very best eye examination possible.

Here, the examination is allowed to take as long as it needs to, and as a customer, you are far from being part of an ‘assembly-line examination’. It is no coincidence that Hultins Optik has so many loyal and devoted customers.

If you’d like to book an eye test now, the easiest way to do so is here.