Single-vision glasses
Single-vision lenses correct one main viewing distance. They can be made for distance vision or reading, depending on the prescription.
Prescription glasses Ā· Shepherds Bush
Glasses and prescription lenses in Shepherds Bush
Find prescription glasses, reading glasses, varifocals, prescription sunglasses and lens coatings at Specialeyes Eyecare in West London. We advise on lens design and thickness using your prescription, frame choice and everyday needs.
Single vision, bifocal & varifocal lensesLens advice for your prescriptionFrames and sunglasses to explore in practice
Choose your prescription lenses
Glasses for distance, reading and everyday use
Your optometrist or dispensing team can explain the choices that suit your prescription and how you use your glasses.
Reading glasses
Reading lenses support near tasks. The prescription should be based on your sight test, especially if you also need correction for distance.
Bifocal and varifocal lenses
Bifocal lenses provide distinct distance and near areas. Varifocal (progressive) lenses blend distance, intermediate and near powers without a visible dividing line.
Lens choice for your prescription
Thinner lenses for stronger prescriptions
If you have a higher prescription, a higher-index lens may reduce lens thickness and weight. The best choice depends on the full prescription, including sphere and astigmatism, the size and shape of the frame, how the frame sits and the lens material. These are the practiceās general guide bands, not a substitute for individual advice:
| Lens index | Material | Published indicative prescription range |
|---|---|---|
| 1.50 | Plastic | 0.00 to 2.50 |
| 1.60 | Plastic | 2.50 to 4.00 |
| 1.67 | Plastic | 4.00 to 6.00 |
| 1.74 | Plastic | Above 6.00 |
| 1.90 | Glass | Above 15.00 |
These ranges are approximate and can vary with the frame and individual prescription. The published guide does not specify plus or minus powers, so the optician will use your full prescription and frame choice to advise on suitable lens thickness and cost before you order.
Treatments and lens options
Anti-glare, blue-light, photochromic and sunglass lenses
Lens coatings and tints can change reflections, cleaning, light transmission and appearance. We can explain the available options and their limits.
Anti-reflective and anti-glare coating
An anti-reflective coating reduces reflections from the lens surface. It can make lenses look clearer in some lighting and is often paired with scratch-resistant or easy-clean treatments.
Scratch-resistant and easy-clean coatings
Hard coatings can help protect plastic lenses from everyday scratching. Easy-clean and water-repellent top coats can make smudges easier to wipe away. No coating makes lenses scratch-proof.
Blue-light filter glasses for screens
Ask about blue-light filtering or anti-glare lenses for screen use. They can filter some wavelengths or reduce reflections, but they do not replace screen breaks, correct prescription or treatment for eye strain.
Prescription sunglasses and tinted lenses
Prescription sunglasses can be made with solid or graduated tints. Ask about polarised lenses for reflected glare and UV-protective options. Lens availability and tint colours vary.
Photochromic and Transitions lenses
Photochromic glasses darken in response to light. Ask about Transitions Signature or XTRActive options and whether their behaviour suits your time outdoors or behind a windscreen.
Driving and specialist-use lenses
We can discuss lens coatings for driving, work or screen use. Anti-reflective treatments may reduce reflections from the lens surface, but no coating can guarantee safer night driving or remove glare from every source.
A good frame and lens match
Glasses chosen around your prescription and lifestyle
Frame size and shape affect lens thickness, weight, field of view and how the optical centres are positioned. Tell us whether you need glasses mainly for reading, driving, screens, work or general wear so we can discuss practical options.
- Ask about single-vision, bifocal and varifocal lenses.
- Discuss high-index lenses if you have a stronger prescription.
- Ask whether an existing frame can be reglazed before bringing it in.
Common questions
Prescription glasses and lens FAQs
Which glasses lenses are available?
Options include single-vision distance or reading lenses, bifocals, varifocals, thinner high-index lenses, coatings, tints, photochromic lenses and prescription sunglasses. The best match depends on your prescription and how you use your glasses.
How do you choose lens thickness for my prescription?
We consider the lens power, astigmatism, frame size and shape, lens material and fit. Higher-index lenses may be considered for stronger prescriptions, but the guide ranges are approximate and your optician will advise on the specific order.
Are varifocal glasses right for me?
Varifocals combine distance, intermediate and near vision in one lens. Your prescription, measurements and visual needs determine whether they are suitable and which design to choose.
Can I get prescription sunglasses?
Ask about prescription sunglasses with solid or graduated tints, polarised options and UV protection. Available lens types and colours depend on your prescription and current stock.
Do blue-light glasses prevent eye strain?
Blue-light filters change how much selected light reaches the eye, but they are not a guaranteed treatment for digital eye strain. An accurate prescription, good screen habits and advice from an optometrist may also matter.
Visit Specialeyes Eyecare
Find prescription glasses in Shepherds Bush
Visit us at 128 Uxbridge Road, Shepherds Bush, London W12 8AA. Open Monday to Saturday, 10:00amā6:00pm.
Essilor and ZEISS spectacle lenses
We supply Essilor spectacle lenses and can arrange ZEISS lenses where required. Our team will help match lens design, coatings and thickness to your prescription, frame and daily needs. Specific products, prices and delivery times are confirmed before ordering.
Eyewear for children, sport and specialist needs
We provide childrenās and infant glasses, sports and prescription safety eyewear and myopia-management services. Ask about suitability for your prescription.
Want to keep your current frame? Explore glasses repairs and reglazing. For help understanding your lens powers, read our spectacle prescription guide.