Of course, some night driving symptoms are due to underlying ocular or neural factors — IOL optics, corneal irregularity, retinal health, mesopic pupil behavior — that may not respond meaningfully to lens-based solutions. Even so, patients often look to their OD for guidance on what can realistically improve night driving comfort.

Today, Optometry 411 looks at the brands and categories worth knowing about as you help patients navigate the lens-based options available.

ZEISS DriveSafe

ZEISS DriveSafe is one of the more established driving-specific lens designs and a common reference point for ODs, and it is sometimes presented as an everyday lens with driving benefits rather than a dedicated night-driving pair. It’s a clear lens paired with an AR coating tuned to reduce perceived glare from headlights, streetlights, and reflective road surfaces.

Hoya EnRoute 

Hoya’s EnRoute family takes a tiered approach. The standard EnRoute lens is designed for low-light clarity and comfort without adding a tint.

The EnRoute Pro version introduces a contrast filter that can be helpful in certain driving conditions, but because it reduces light transmission, it is better framed as a daytime or mixed-use solution. Being able to explain that distinction helps patients avoid choosing the Pro version for the wrong reason.

Shamir Driver Intelligence Moon lenses

Shamir Driver Intelligence Moon is a newer entry in the category of clear, optics-based lenses designed specifically for night driving. The lens is developed using data-driven optical modeling, including AI-based analysis during the design process. Development was in collaboration with the BWT Alpine F1 Team, which makes for an interesting talking point.

Premium AR lenses that aren’t specifically for driving

Some ODs prefer to stick with high-quality AR stacks rather than specialty driving designs. These aren’t night lenses per se, but they do aim to cut down on ghosting, halos, and distracting reflections that become more noticeable after dark.

A few that come up often:

ZEISS DuraVision Platinum
Essilor Crizal Sapphire HR
Hoya Hi-Vision LongLife AR
Nikon SeeCoat Bright

These could appeal to patients who want durability and all-day performance, with improved nighttime comfort as a secondary benefit rather than a primary feature.

Yellow or amber “night driving glasses” 

Yellow-tinted glasses are probably the most heavily marketed night driving products in the consumer space. A quick search on Reddit, for example, shows users overwhelmingly suggesting yellow-tinted lenses to each other, usually to combat the aforementioned glare from bright headlights in oncoming traffic. A few name brands beyond the multitude of generic online options: Rx-Safety Halo, Eagle Eyes, NoIR, Night Rider.

The key point to emphasize here is that these tints reduce overall light transmission. Most wearers don’t consciously register the loss of ambient light. What they do notice is softer headlights. Openly acknowledging this distinction/tradeoff in your patient conversations is a good idea.

Where yellow tints are most defensible:

• Well-lit urban driving
• Dusk or early evening conditions
• Patients whose primary complaint is discomfort rather than object detection

Where they are least appropriate:

• Rural or poorly lit roads
• Older patients with reduced contrast sensitivity

Clip-ons and fitovers

As with yellow-lens glasses, clip-ons and fitovers are widely available and inexpensive, but again, they aren’t the strongest overall performers for nighttime vision because of the tint. Brands patients might mention include Cocoons, Solar Shield, Fitover USA.

Zenni NeoContrast

We’re mentioning NeoContrast lenses separately because they appear nearly clear. They use a mild contrast-enhancing filter rather than a heavy tint, which is why they present differently than the saturated yellow we’ve come to expect. That said, even mild spectral filtering reduces overall light transmission to some degree, so it’s worth a conversation about the tradeoffs.

Recommended read: Optometry Times has insights on identifying nighttime visibility difficulty

Photochromic options, with important nuances

Photochromic lenses frequently come up in conversations about driving, but they are not designed to improve nighttime vision. Some newer options do activate behind the windshield, which can be helpful for daytime or dusk driving. Examples include Transitions XTRActive and Hoya Sensity Dark, both of which provide behind-the-windshield activation and deeper tinting in bright conditions. Transitions Drivewear is polarized and optimized specifically for daytime driving.

These lenses can be useful for commuters who drive in changing light, but they should not be positioned as solutions for nighttime glare or low-light visibility.

Non-optical factors

An important aside: Vehicle-related factors can also contribute to glare and reduced visibility. Might be worth mentioning to patients that cleaning the inside and outside of their windshield regularly can make a noticeable difference. Dim the interior/dash lights as much as possible. Fresh wiper blades can help, too.

The post Options To Explore for Patients Struggling With Night Driving appeared first on Optometry 411.

But travel requires planning, so let’s take a look at what 2025 has in store for us. Here are the in-person optometry conferences and events on our radar. 

JANUARY 2025

Island Eyes Conference 2025
Dates: January 12 – 18, 2025
Location: Maui, Hawaii

Hosted by Pacific University, this conference offers up to 30 COPE-accredited hours of continuing education, featuring renowned educators and a half-day schedule to allow attendees to enjoy Maui’s attractions.

The Vision Council 2025 Executive Summit
Dates: January 22 – 24, 2025
Location: Santa Barbara, California

A posh event that brings together industry leaders for several days of high-level networking and leadership development. Designed to shed light on the evolving landscape of the vision industry, this one features a robust schedule of interactive panels, expert presentations, and keynote addresses.

Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) 2025
Dates: January 22 – 25, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

GSLS focuses on the latest innovations in specialty contact lenses, including scleral lenses, ortho-K, and myopia management. Attendees can benefit from workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with global experts.

Eyeball Palm Springs 2025
Date: January 25, 2025
Location: Palm Springs, California

Here’s a chic, curated event combining eyewear fashion, creativity, and continuing education. Brett Cates, co-creator, is “deeply passionate about independent eyewear and the rejection of corporate influence in both art and eyewear.”

FEBRUARY 2025

MIDO Eyewear Show 2025
Dates: February 8 – 10, 2025
Location: Milan, Italy

MIDO is one of the world’s largest international eyewear trade shows, featuring over 1,200 exhibitors and attendees from more than 160 countries. You can expect to see the latest eyewear collections, technological innovations, and industry trends.

EnVision Summit 2025
Dates: February 14 – 17, 2025
Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico

This summit is intentionally family-friendly and offers continuing education in ophthalmology and optometry, featuring clinical discussions, mentoring, and research collaborations.

Vision Expo East 2025
Dates: February 19 – 22, 2025
Location: Orlando, Florida

Where eyewear, education, fashion, and innovation mingle. Join eyecare professionals, buyers, influencers, and technology leaders in Orlando (the conference moved from NY to FL this year!). Tip: Also consider the 2025 VM Leadership Summit happening in Orlando on 2/19.

SECO 2025
Dates: February 26 – March 2, 2025
Location: Atlanta, Georgia

SECO 2025 is a premier event for optometry professionals, offering cutting-edge education, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities with industry leaders from around the world.

MARCH 2025

The Frame Affair 2025
Dates: March 13 – 15, 2025
Location: New York City, New York

Curated as “a luxury art gallery,” this eyewear show creates a space where independent designers and visionary artisans converge to showcase the finest in eyewear craftsmanship. Think immersive brand storytelling, upscale cuisine and drinks, and a luxury fashion show.

EYECON 2025
Dates: March 14 – 16, 2025
Location: New York City, New York

EYECON is another luxury eyewear show in NYC this week. Exclusive product launches, trend insights, creative exhibitions, and engaging panel discussions will explore innovations shaping the eyewear industry.

JUNE 2025

International Congress of Scleral Contacts (ICSC) 2025
Dates: June 20 – 21, 2025
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina

ICSC 2025 offers interactive panels, hands-on workshops, and educational tracks tailored for both experienced and new scleral lens practitioners. Global experts share insights on emerging trends, challenges, and advanced clinical practices related to scleral lenses.

Optometry’s Meeting® 2025 & 5th World Congress of Optometry
Dates: June 25 – 28, 2025
Location: Minneapolis Convention Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota

The 128th Annual AOA Congress and 57th Annual AOSA Conference will host the 5th World Congress of Optometry, focusing on advancing universal access to high-quality eye health and vision care. Find all manner of CE, collaboration and strategic partnership opportunities, plus practice solutions, business services, and resources.

JULY 2025

CE in the Rockies
Dates: July 17 – 20, 2025
Location: Estes Park, Colorado

Join the University of Houston College of Optometry for an unforgettable continuing education conference with a view. Earn essential CE credits while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. This unique experience blends professional growth with personal renewal.

2025 NOA National Convention
Dates: July 17 – 20, 2025
Location: Columbus, Ohio

A continuing priority of the National Optometric Association is the promotion of greater cultural diversity within the schools and colleges of optometry. Recent NOA efforts have focused on the Association’s desire to better educate those populations who are at higher risk of developing sight-threatening conditions like glaucoma and diabetic eye disease — specifically urban, rural, and minority populations with poor access to eye health care. This annual event incorporates all of the above!

AUGUST 2025

CE Charleston
Dates: August 8 – 10, 2025
Location: Charleston, South Carolina

While outstanding clinical education is important, Optometric Education Consultants also feels that the experience is equally important. They design conferences to allow attendees flexibility in getting outstanding clinical continuing education (16 hours in three days) and the opportunity to enjoy the facilities and surrounding area.

AACO Annual Conference
Dates: August 22 – 23, 2025
Location: Savannah, Georgia

The American Association of Corporate Optometrists will host two days filled with 16 hours of CE (including GA & FL jurisprudence), networking with corporate optometrists just like you, and 22+ exhibitors.

Canadian Rockies CE
Dates: August 31 – September 7, 2025
Location: Banff and Lake Louise

Discover the majestic natural setting while ensconced in luxury at Fairmont Banff Springs. Tropical CE offers destination education administered under the auspices of the Rosenberg School of Optometry, University of the Incarnate Word. The University reviews and endorses all course materials, speakers, and presentations. 

SEPTEMBER 2025

Vision Expo West 2025
Dates: September 17 – 20, 2025
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Like it’s eastern counterpart, Vision Expo West is a top event for ophthalmic professionals, combining education, fashion, and innovation. The conference offers accredited education sessions, and the exhibition hall showcases the latest in eyewear and optical technology.

2025 NORA Conference
Dates: September 18 – 21, 2025
Location: Denver, Colorado

The Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, International (NORA) Annual Conference is the premier event for neurorehabilitation professionals committed to improving the lives of individuals affected by traumatic brain injury and other neurological conditions. The 2025 theme, “Bridging Neuroscience and Clinical Vision Rehabilitation,” emphasizes the integration of cutting-edge neuroscience with practical, team-based clinical approaches to visual recovery.

8th International Eye and Vision Congress
Dates: September 22– 23, 2025
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands

The 8th International Eye and Vision Congress aims to unite academic institutions and clinical research centers in a collaborative environment to exchange innovative ideas, foster partnerships, and evaluate emerging advancements in the field of eye and vision care worldwide.

EyeCon 2025
Dates: September 26 – 27, 2025
Location: Hollywood, Florida

At this premier eye care summit for optometrists and ophthalmologists, you’ll find top-notch faculty with key insights into the latest diagnostic strategies and clinical trial evidence for the treatment of corneal diseases, glaucoma, myopia, ocular oncology, ocular trauma, retinal diseases, uveitis and more. Explore a variety of hands-on workshops and networking opportunities with the EyeCon faculty and your peers.

SILMO PARIS
Dates: September 26 – 29, 2025
Location: Paris, France

AOA on Capitol Hill 2025
Dates: September 28 – 30, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C.

The American Optometric Association’s annual advocacy event, where optometrists and students meet with lawmakers to discuss critical issues affecting optometry and eye care. This event includes advocacy training, legislative briefings, and opportunities to make a direct impact on policy. Note the new September date.

OCTOBER 2025

Academy 2025 Boston
Dates: October 8 – 11, 2025
Location: Boston, Massachusetts

Hosted by the American Academy of Optometry, this major annual conference brings together optometrists, vision scientists, and students for comprehensive continuing education and the latest research in optometry.

Note: The Optometric Glaucoma Society Annual Meeting coincides with Academy 2025, taking place on October 7.

Vision By Design 2025
Dates: October 22 – 25, 2025
Location: West Palm Beach, Florida

Hosted by the American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (AAOMC), this conference focuses on orthokeratology, myopia control, and specialty contact lenses. You can engage in lectures, workshops, and networking opportunities designed for both experienced practitioners and those new to the field.

Music City Fall Classic
Dates: October 24 – 26, 2025
Location: Nashville, Tennessee

The continuing education conference is hosted by Optometric Education Consultants and offers up to 22 hours of COPE-approved learning. It features expert-led sessions, interactive networking opportunities, and engagement with leading industry exhibitors.

NOVEMBER 2025

EastWest Eye Conference
Dates: November 5 – 8, 2025
Location: Columbus, Ohio

The leading optometry event in the Midwest, offering 100 hours of continuing education (max of 24 hours per OD). Organized by the Ohio Optometric Association, the conference features expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, an exhibit hall with the latest industry innovations, and networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders.

MOD Live 2025
Dates: November 7 – 9, 2025
Location: Austin, Texas

Presented by Modern Optometry, this event focuses on the evolving field of medical eye care, offering insights and education for optometrists adapting to new clinical practices.

Ocular Surface Symposium
Date: November 8, 2025
Location: New York City

This comprehensive one-day event provides ODs with a deep dive into ocular surface disease with an emphasis on dry eye, MGD, and blepharitis. Experts will share the latest data, research, and current treatment strategies. This program stemmed from the success of the New Technologies and Treatments in Eye Care conferences series, a long-running and trusted program.

Optometric Management Symposium
Dates: November 13 – 16, 2025
Location: Lake Buena Vista, Florida

OMS 2025 is headed back to Disney (Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club, to be exact). At this premier event for clinical, business, and retail management education, you’ll earn CE credits, network with peers, and gain insights that you can bring back to your practice.

The post The Optometry Conferences We’re Eyeing in 2025 appeared first on Optometry 411.

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s gaining traction, and how optometrists can prepare.

Audio glasses are getting good

Bose, Ray-Ban Meta, or Amazon Echo Frames let you listen to music or take calls without earbuds. The tech is no longer bulky, and battery life is getting better.

Most of these models aren’t Rx-ready out of the box, but patients will want to know if they can wear them with their prescription. That opens the door to conversations about lens swaps, weight distribution (Rx lens swaps could alter the balance and potentially cause discomfort on the bridge or behind the ears), or whether the frame can handle a prescription at all. Patients will appreciate your guidance.

AR glasses are on the horizon (again)

Meta, Xreal, TCL, and other players are rolling out lightweight AR glasses that project notifications, wayfinding prompts, even entertainment directly into the wearer’s field of vision. Essentially, we’re starting to see a ripple effect from Apple Vision Pro, although these models are not as immersive or powerful.

The form factor is getting closer to “real glasses,” which will bring forth good questions about visual ergonomics: Will all-day use of heads-up displays lead to eye strain? Will patients with high refractive errors even be candidates once Rx-compatible versions land? These aren’t questions with simple answers yet, but being ready to talk about them makes you look better.

Rx compatibility is the obvious pain point

The catch is that, so far, very few of these tech-forward glasses are built with Rx wearers in mind. The market is still skewed toward plano lenses or tech/fashion-first design. This will be frustrating for your patients who want both function and correction.

If your practice works with labs that can edge lenses for nontraditional frames, or if you can give honest advice about when not to try, that’s a good place to start. Even telling a patient, “This model probably won’t give you good optical results with your Rx, but here’s what to look for,” is going to be worthwhile.

A few good candidates for lens swapping (although not an exhaustive list):

• Ray-Ban Meta (also
• Amazon Echo Frames
• Lucyd Lyte
• Razer Anzu
• Nreal Air/Xreal Air doesn’t support direct replacement but offers clip-in inserts behind the lenses

Overall, the chance for an Rx swap is better on models where the tech is housed in the arms rather than the lenses or lens frames.

You don’t need to stock smart glasses to play a role in all this. But as eyewear transitions from purely medical to medical + wearable tech, ODs who stay informed will be better positioned to help. Having a point of view grounded in clinical experience can go a long way.

The post Patients Are Starting To Ask About Smart Glasses. Here’s 3 Things To Know appeared first on Optometry 411.

So says Dr. Lyndon Jones, director of the Centre for Ocular Research & Education. In efforts to address this issue, CORE has launched SustainableEyecare.com. The first-of-its-kind website is designed to educate eye care professionals (and patients) about the environmental impact of contact lenses and eyewear, as well as about practical solutions for recycling and responsible disposal.

The site includes:

• Easy-to-understand information about the environmental challenges linked to contact lens, frames, and spectacle lens disposal.
• Clear instructions for how to properly dispose of lenses to minimize environmental effects.
• A directory of known recycling programs around the world, as well as a listing of green initiatives from major eye care manufacturers and industry bodies.
• Customizable resources and downloadable infographics that eye care professionals can share on social media or use to educate patients.
• Tips on how to build sustainability into your clinical practice operations.
• A compendium of relevant peer-reviewed and professional publications.

I encourage you to visit the link and poke around; see what it offers on both the eye care practitioner and patient side.

“This Earth Day, we’re encouraging everyone in eye care to take another step toward protecting our planet. Society has benefited immeasurably from contact lenses and glasses, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be mindful of their disposal. Whether you’re a patient wanting to reduce your plastic footprint or an eye care professional looking to implement greener practices, SustainableEyecare.com provides tools and knowledge to help make a difference,” noted Dr. Jones.

CORE plans to update the site with additional resources from across the eye care spectrum, and encourages organizations to submit their own initiatives for possible inclusion over the coming weeks and months.

A note on sustainability in eye care

Contact lenses are not the biggest environmental offender in the eye care industry, though they’re the most visible and frequently discussed example due to media attention and public interest.

An estimated 2.6 – 2.7 billion contact lenses are discarded annually in the U.S. alone. Many end up in landfills or waterways, especially when improperly flushed down the drain. The environmental concern here is largely tied to microplastic pollution and the fact that lenses are not biodegradable.

A broader and more substantial environmental footprint comes from the manufacturing, packaging, transportation, and disposal of eye care products overall, including frames, lenses, and clinical operations:

• Frame manufacturing (involving petroleum-based plastics, metals, dyes, and water use)
• Prescription lens production (involves coatings, polishing, waste runoff)
• Packaging materials (boxes, blister packs, inserts, shipping padding)
• Single-use items and disposables in clinical settings
• Energy consumption in optical labs and eye care clinics

Further recommended read: Optometric Waste Management Decisions Can Have an Environmental Impact

For the environmentally conscious OD, it would be good to take a look at these areas and at least assess where you’re at. From there, addressing sustainability head-on becomes something you can also use to attract patients and strengthen your reputation.

The post Sustainable Eyecare Starts Here: A New Resource for Environmentally Minded ODs Just Dropped appeared first on Optometry 411.

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But it’s hard when you feel like you need to be an in-house marketing and advertising agency on top of everything else. What you need is a little inspiration you can run with. Here are five tried-and-true optical promotions that can help increase your optical capture rate. Take these ideas and tweak them so they make sense for your practice and your market.

1. Second Pair Specials for Lifestyle Lenses

People tend to think of glasses in terms of finding that one perfect pair, but they could actually benefit from a little variety. A second pair promotion gives them the chance to take home two sets of lenses: one for everyday use and another for a specific purpose. Whether it’s a backup pair in a totally different frame style, prescription sunglasses, or blue-light blockers for screen time, these add-ons meet real lifestyle needs.

Your move: Offer a discount on the second pair if they buy both at once, or bundle them as part of a package. Let patients know that they’ll get a lot more functionality (and fun) with a little variety. With the right setup, they’ll see the value in grabbing that extra pair — and your capture rate will thank you.

Pro tip: This is a common promotion with big chains — “Free eye exam and 2 frames for $X.” But something to keep in mind is that big chains aren’t necessarily cheaper after all the fine print. Help your market by breaking some misconceptions that might be hurting them and establish yourself as a trusted authority in the process. This also applies to online shopping. People are drawn to the idea of finding a lower price, but the online market is flooded. With too many options, patients are confused and overwhelmed. You are the solution to that!

2. Contact Lens Subscription Service

For patients who wear contacts, a subscription plan can be a lifesaver — never worrying about running out of lenses or making last-minute calls for more. You can offer patients the convenience of a subscription service, where contacts are delivered on a schedule. The twist: Give subscribers exclusive benefits on glasses too, like discounts or upgrades.

Your move: By signing up for a contacts subscription (through a system of your choice, integrated into your practice), patients can become automatically eligible for special perks, like a discount on their next pair of glasses or complimentary product samples or frame styling consultations. This keeps them coming back to you and establishes your practice as a one-stop shop for all things vision-related. Plus, patients who are “locked in” through subscription services are statistically more likely to buy their frames and lenses from the same provider.

3. Frame Your Face: Personalized Style Consultations

Finding the right frames is about so much more than prescription needs. Patients love feeling confident and stylish in their glasses, so why not offer style consultations? Everyone wants reassurance that their frames are flattering. This is a fun way to connect with your patients and help them choose frames that truly suit their features, personality, and lifestyle.

Your move: Designate a staff member with a keen eye for style as the Frame Stylist and offer complimentary style consultations. Make it comfortable, offer a beverage, etc. You might even take before-and-after photos to showcase the transformation. This adds a personal touch, which is a HUGE consumer preference right now, and it positions your practice as an eyewear destination. Share some of these transformations (with permission) on social media to boost engagement and attract new patients looking for that perfect pair.

Pro tip: For all these promotions, think about timing that makes sense for your business. When it comes to frame consultations, you might want to consider the season — people may look for style refreshes when the weather changes or at the start of a new year. In general, holiday and seasonal promotions work wonders; learn more about seasonal marketing here.

4. Limited-Time Lens Upgrades

People love options, and they love discounts even more. Limited-time promotions on lens upgrades give patients the best of both worlds. Try offering time-limited discounts on high-value lens features, such as photochromic lenses, anti-reflective coatings, or high-index lenses.

Your move: Run a Lens Upgrade Special for a limited time — maybe once a quarter — to keep things fresh. When patients know there’s a limited-time offer on upgraded lenses, it creates a sense of urgency that encourages them to say yes right away. You can guide patients toward the upgrade that best suits their needs and preferences, so they know they’re getting a great deal and leaving your office with enhanced visual comfort.

5. Refer a Friend, Earn a Reward

100% of the time, word-of-mouth is your best marketing tool. Think about a simple, incentive-based referral program that offers a small thank you for referring new patients. Referrals bring in new faces and solidify relationships with your existing patients.

Your move: Set up a Refer a Friend program where both the referring patient and the new patient receive a reward. The reward could be a discount, a small gift, or even a credit toward their next pair of glasses. This turns your loyal patients into brand ambassadors who are motivated to bring family and friends into your practice.

Pro tip: If the referral reward is a discount, consider allowing stacking discounts so patients can get a significant reward down the road if they refer multiple people.

Current statistics indicate that the average optical capture rate hovers around 60–65%, with industry benchmarks suggesting that practices should aim for at least this level to maintain profitability and patient satisfaction. (Source: How To Calculate and Increase Your Optical Capture Rate)

Incorporating promotions doesn’t have to mean complex sales strategies. Add a few ideas like the ones above to capture patients’ attention and give them more reasons to choose your practice over others.

The post 5 Proven Optical Promotions To Boost Your Capture Rate appeared first on Optometry 411.

Here’s a handy primer on a variety of colored lenses you might suggest, depending on the health conditions and needs of a patient.

A scattershot of notes before we dive in:

• The effects of tinted lenses are a perpetual subject of study. Sample sizes can vary dramatically, so study findings must be evaluated accordingly.
• The idea that tinted lenses can treat visual processing disorders like Irlen syndrome or reading issues like dyslexia is somewhat controversial and not currently supported by scientific evidence. (Read more: Update on Irlen Lenses)
• The ultimate effect of any lens tint will be patient-specific. Relatedly, the tint type and darkness should be tailored to individual patient needs and personal preferences.

Rose/Pink Lenses

A rose-colored lens — FL-41 tint, specifically — enhances contrast, reduces glare, and can soothe eye strain and light sensitivity by blocking out a wide range of blue and green light. These can be worn indoors or outdoors, although indoor wear seems to be more effective.

Recommended for:

• Migraines
• Photophobia (including for patients with DED)
• Post-concussion recovery
• Blepharospasm
• TBI or concussion symptoms
• Visual snow syndrome
• Reducing visual noise for people with sensory processing disorders

Read more:
Dry Eye and Photophobia: The Outlook May Be Rosy

Yellow/Orange Lenses

Yellow lenses improve contrast sensitivity and depth perception, making them ideal in foggy, low-light, or overcast conditions. These have long been favored for both indoor and outdoor sports due to the enhancement of rapid reactions and contrast perception. Studies have also shown that yellow helps people stay focused when completing challenging tasks.

Recommended for:

• AMD, as yellow tint enhances contrast
• Glaucoma, as it helps reduce glare and eye strain
• People with bipolar disorder, as it has been found to minimize blue-light-triggered manic fluctuations
• People working at a screen all day (as an alternative to typical blue-light blockers)
• Activities like hunting that require improved visual acuity
• Indoor sports like basketball and racquetball
• Gamers

Note: The use of yellow/amber lenses for night driving, once posited as beneficial against the glare of modern headlights, is not backed by data:

In reality, when driving at night or dusk in already limited lighting conditions, ANY tint further reduces the amount of light transmitted to the eye and further impairs vision. The problem is compounded as the yellow tint gives the wearer the impression they are seeing better, when in fact the reverse is true. (Source: The Dangers of Yellow Night Driving Glasses)

For current info on night driving, check out: Overnight Glasses Addresses Nighttime Driving Difficulties With Tips for Improving Night Vision.

Gray Lenses

We can’t skip gray, but you already know the deal: A gray tint preserves true color perception and reduces overall brightness without altering colors. It works well outdoors on cloudy or sunny days and reduces glare, especially on the water. There’s a reason this is the most popular sunglass lens tint.

Recommended for:

• General light sensitivity
• Those working or playing in bright outdoor environments

Green Lenses

Green tint reduces glare, enhances contrast in shadowy areas, and can reduce stress on the eyes. Studies have shown green to be calming and relaxing and to have positive effects on creativity. Green light therapy has gained traction as a way to decrease the intensity and duration of migraines, and this is also reflected in lens technology (e.g., Avulux lenses).

Recommended for:

• Migraine sufferers triggered by light
• Outdoor sports regardless of light conditions
• Golf, baseball, and tennis in particular
• Fibromyalgia

Read more: Green Eyeglasses Reduce Pain-Related Anxiety in Fibromyalgia Patients, Study Shows

One OD has had success with gray-green tinted contact lenses for concussions or migraines, noting:

This is a great opportunity for dual prescribing in a primary eye care practice. For a patient who struggles with chronic migraine — and I guarantee that every practice has patients like this — you can offer a regular lens and a performance-tinted lens, so the patient can start wearing the tinted ones as soon as he or she feels a migraine beginning.

I recommend adding questions about migraine and light sensitivity to your patient history questionnaire. When appropriate, you can prescribe the performance-tinted lenses. This becomes a nice niche for the practice that builds revenue and word-of-mouth referrals — and it also solves a major problem for your patients. (Source: Performance-Tinted Contact Lenses Can Help Control Light Sensitivity)

Purple/Blue Lenses

These are good for enhancing contours while reducing reflective glare, and they work well in foggy or misty weather. Take what we know about blue light — that subjects are better able to concentrate at night when exposed to blue light, compared to white or red light — and consider recommending blue tints, which have been shown to have an activating effect on concentration.

Recommended for:

• Photosensitive epilepsy
• Golfers and tennis players needing sharper contrast on greens
• Snowy day sports and activities

One OD speaks to successful experimentation with therapeutic blue tints for Parkinson’s and autism: Some Lens Tints Have Been Shown to Help Sufferers of Certain Health Disorders

Read more: Opticians Who Use Tinted Lenses for People With Autism

Brown/Amber Lenses

These lenses increase depth perception and block blue light. Brown lenses heighten contrast against green landscapes and blue skies, making it another good sunglass lens tint.

Recommended for:

• People working outdoors (e.g., construction)
• Skiers, pilots, and drivers for better clarity in high-glare environments
• Golf and baseball (for seeing details at a distance)

What’s the big takeaway here? With the exception of migraine study results, the benefits of tinted lenses are fairly hard to pin down with data. But that doesn’t mean there’s no benefits. I like this summation:

Some companies are producing sporting glasses intended to improve an athlete’s abilities by filtering out certain wavelengths of light specific to their sport. For example, a mountain biker might use glasses which allow in more reds and yellows, enhancing their ability to see tree roots and loose soil. It is based on “optic science” and is all about balancing the colors of your environment to your advantage. Some believe that an application of this science can help people suffering from learning problems, dyslexia, ADD, autism, and migraines, among other problems. The idea is to use color-based technology to filter out offensive light waves so that the brain can process visual information more efficiently. This concept is somewhat controversial in that studies have produced varying results, and it seems that one filter color is not best for all people with the same diagnosis. This should not be considered a cure but could be a non-invasive way to offer help to some. (Source: Rose-Colored Glasses)

Additional resources and studies: 

An Index of BPI Therapeutic Lenses and Tints

Recommending the Right Tinted Lenses for Low Vision Patients

Therapeutic Effects of Tinting a Lens (Contact or Spectacle)

Impact of Tinted Lenses on Contrast Sensitivity, Color Vision, and Visual Reaction Time in Young Adults

A Systematic Review of Controlled Trials on Visual Stress Using Intuitive Overlays or the Intuitive Colorimeter

This content is intended for educational purposes only and does not substitute for clinical judgment. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient needs, professional guidelines, and a comprehensive clinical evaluation.

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We kept an eye out for innovations and forward-thinking companies on our journey through the booths. Think next-gen VR headset testing, remote eye care solutions, and digital tools to help your practice thrive. Let’s dive in.

Eyewear Trends

I see the future of the [optical] industry in the customization aspect. 40% of the market is walking into the optical and walking out because it doesn’t have something that they like or that actually fits them. And that’s where the customization comes in. You can customize your Nikes, you can customize M&Ms, and now you can customize your own frames. And that’s where the future is. – Rossy Gonzalez, Thema USA (Eco-friendly, fully customizable eyewear)

The future of eyewear is all about customization, sustainability, advanced frame construction, and patented technologies. On-demand design and 3D printing eliminates the need for large purchase orders — and subsequent storage space. We were intrigued by 3D printing as a solution to storage issues, durability, and sustainability concerns:

Tech Print Industries (TPI) leads 3D-printed eyewear innovation, collaborating with top European brands like Liq Eyewear (Spain), REL Eyewear (Italy), eye3d.nl (Netherlands), RAYDIANT (Germany), and EveryWear (Netherlands). TPI offers advanced technologies like personalized scan-to-print frames and durable, color-rich materials. Brands and retailers can create custom collections and introduce lightweight, sustainable eyewear to their customers, shaping the future of eyewear through creativity and innovation. – Kiana Notenboom, Tech Print Industries

If you’re curious about the design and construction of 3D-printed frames, there are several short, informational videos at Tech Print Industries that can give you more background.

Durability was a major theme on the show floor. Noon Shop’s Steel Brown collection showcases the durability and lightweight nature of stainless steel:

The frames are precision-engineered as a single piece, eliminating potential weak points and ensuring long-lasting performance. Their wafer-thin design offers a sleek, modern look while maintaining exceptional strength. It’s no surprise that Tesla Cybertrucks are also crafted with stainless steel. – Anna Park, Noon Shop

And that patented technology I mentioned? It’s all in service of durability and comfort:

What impresses people the most at these types of shows is our TurboFlex technology, the worldwide patented 360-degree rotating hinge. It makes the frames flexible, comfortable and most of all resilient. It’s so fun to see people’s faces as they play with our product for the first time. Needless to say, once you’ve tried a pair, you’ll want one of your own. – Steve Dawson, Aspex Eyewear

Eyewear Designs Ltd. (you may remember the cool Elton John Eyewear displays at their booth) gave us great intel about fit, color, and sustainability trends:

It’s all about the fit – comfort, and right now we are seeing a strong emphasis on extra-large styles and fits for both men and women. Soft, cool shapes but strong large sizes – men’s over 57 eye and women’s over 55 eye.

Color is another key trend. We see more and more use of multi-color combinations both for men and women. Lamination and new color techniques give us the ability to bring to market truly beautiful and unique color combinations.

We continue to address supporting global sustainability issues. Our company goal is to have 50% of our collections made from recycled and sustainable materials within 24 months and 100% within two more years. We encourage and work with all our supply partners to help us achieve this goal. – Abby Gluck, Eyewear Designs Ltd.

Innovative Equipment

VR headsets are having major impact as a diagnostic tool and are easy to integrate into a practice. Patients love them, and most importantly, you get accurate results. Clinically validated, research-backed tech like the Virtual Eye offers visual field testing that eliminates the constraints of traditional SAP.

Neurolens has already partnered with more than 1,500 independent optometrists to incorporate immersive VR technology into their practices while offering patients pioneering lens technology:

With increased competition from online and retail channels, it is more important than ever for independent eye care providers to differentiate themselves with cutting-edge innovation and world-class patient care.

[Our] N3 VR headset quickly engages patients while measuring their binocular misalignment and educates the 80% of patients suffering from symptoms such as headaches, neck pain, eye strain, and motion sickness on the potential connection to their eye misalignment. Based on the patient’s N3 measurement, optometrists can prescribe Neurolenses with patented contoured prism technology to bring clear sight and, beyond that, life-changing symptom relief. – Chase Cutler, Neurolens

Related reads:
Reader Survey: What’s On Your Tech Shopping List?, Review of Optometry

Devices You Might Not Have: Are They a Good Fit?, Review of Optometry

Remote Eye Care

DigitalOptometrics has been facilitating comprehensive remote eye exams since 2018, so they have firsthand knowledge of the supply and demand issues in the industry. Remote eye care is a way to improve efficiency and see more patients (who otherwise wouldn’t have access to eye care at all).

There are not enough optometrists to support a growing industry. Our purpose is to meet patient demand. There’s a lot of underserved communities throughout the United States that require this kind of care. And [remote eye care] allows for patient convenience, reduced wait times, and reduced no-show rates. – Howard Fried, O.D., president and founder of DigitalOptometrics

Proprietary DigitalOptometrics technology allows optometrists to remotely perform full, comprehensive eye exams and issue prescriptions in less than 30 minutes.

Related read:
As Remote Eyecare Gains Traction, Patients and Practitioners See Many Advantages, Vision Monday

Aesthetics

You’ve likely been hearing more about the optometry/aesthetics crossover as a way to diversify your services, make money, and stand out from the crowd. Several exhibitors on the show floor offered entry points into this arena: nourishing products for the delicate skin around the eye, eye drops like Lumify, and equipment for low-level light therapy (LLLT) or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.

Curious about adding med spa services? Here’s a deeper dive on what it might look like for you:

This Seattle Optometry Practice Took the Plunge and Added Aesthetic Spa Services, Invision

Your Comprehensive Guide to Ocular Aesthetics, Modern Optometry

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Customization

Private label frames offer a unique opportunity for a practice to curate a collection tailored to its specific patient demographics, at price points that align with any gaps within the existing optical assortment. Understanding what your patients are purchasing and the price points you are catering to can help you develop a customized selling strategy. Private label frames give a practice more control over profits, allowing you more pricing flexibility.

High-Margin Products

Create “whole pair” packages, with the frame and lenses offered at a bundled price. This has proven to be an effective strategy for keeping patients in-house by providing quality eyeglasses with a framework that is comfortable for budget-minded patients. In addition, by purchasing the frames at a significant discount on the wholesale cost, the optical realizes maximum profit on vision plan reimbursement.

Save the Sale

I’m sure you’ve been in a situation where a patient takes pictures and searches for products online while in your optical. One of the most attractive aspects of private label frames is that the patient is unable to find those products online. This can motivate a patient to purchase from your optical, allowing you to compete directly with online retailers. This competitive advantage can solidify the patient’s relationship with your optical, increasing the likelihood of them coming back each year.

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