How to Get the Thinnest Lenses for Your Prescription

When buying new prescription glasses, you are going to want a pair with the thinnest lenses possible. If you have a medium or strong prescription, your lenses will need to accommodate your prescription requirements. But don’t let the technical information puzzle you – we’ll explain how you can easily get the thinnest lenses for your frames!

What Affects Lens Thickness?

When buying glasses, there are three primary factors that affect your overall lens thickness:

Prescription. This will ultimately determine how thick your lenses will be. Simply put, the higher the prescription, the thicker the lens. In addition, prescriptions with moderate to high astigmatism correction often result in thicker lenses.

Lens Material or Lens Index. The lens index refers to the “index of refraction,” or how much the lens bends the light that enters it. This ensures that the light is focused properly onto the retina, helping you to see clearly when wearing your glasses. In general, the higher the index, the thinner the lens. (For example, a 1.61 lens is thinner than a 1.50 lens.) Note: the lens index that is recommended for your prescription during checkout will be the most appropriate lens choice. Learn more by checking out our lens material guide.

Lens Size. The overall width and height of your lenses can have a considerable impact on the thickness and weight of the lenses themselves. The bigger the lens, the thicker and heavier it will be. When buying frames at Dilicn, filter for frames with smaller  lens width and height.  Aside from choosing frames based on factors like style and face shape, you should also shop based on size, as well as your eye doctor’s recommendations.

Lens Index Options

Now that you understand how your lens thickness is determined.

1.50 Standard Index

This is our most basic lens type. It’s ideal for low prescriptions in the range of +1.00/-2.75 or below. If you have an extremely mild prescription, the standard index option will deliver the thinnest frame.

Keep in mind that that this lens index only features 85%-90% UV protection in a clear lens.