Why Coatings Matter: Helping Patients Choose the Right Lens Protection

When patients ask, “Do I really need a coating?”—your answer should always be based on how they use their eyes.

Lens coatings aren’t just add-ons—they change how glasses perform, how long they last, and how comfortable they are to wear. But many patients don’t know what the coatings actually do. Here’s a simple guide you can use to explain the three most common options in our Rising Sun lens range.

1. HMC (Hard Multi-Coated): The Essential All-Arounder

What it is: HMC is a standard multi-purpose coating that combines scratch resistance with anti-reflective properties.

✅ Best for:

• Everyday wear

• First-time wearers

• Budget-conscious patients

✅ Key benefits:

• Reduces distracting reflections, especially under artificial lighting

• Makes lenses easier to clean

• Adds durability and helps prevent minor scratches

How to explain it:

“This coating helps reduce glare from overhead lights and car headlights, so your eyes don’t get tired as quickly. It also keeps your lenses clearer and easier to clean.”

2. Blue Shield: For Screen-Heavy Lifestyles

What it is: Blue Shield adds a blue light filter to the regular HMC coating. It helps reduce exposure to artificial blue light from screens—ideal for working professionals, students, or anyone glued to a device.

✅ Best for:

• Office workers and students

• Patients complaining of digital eye strain

• People who wear glasses indoors most of the time

✅ Key benefits:

• Filters part of the blue light spectrum linked to visual fatigue

• Reduces glare from monitors and phone screens

• Often paired with UV420 for complete daily protection

How to explain it:

“This coating helps protect your eyes from long hours in front of screens. It makes things more comfortable and helps you avoid eye fatigue during work or online classes.”

3. Photochromic: Daily Sunlight and Screen Protection

What it is: Photochromic is a higher-end coating designed to block both UV rays and part of the high-energy visible (HEV) light spectrum. It’s particularly useful in tropical climates like the Philippines where sunlight exposure is consistent year-round.

✅ Best for:

• Patients who spend time outdoors

• People with sensitivity to light

• Long-term wearers looking for full protection

✅ Key benefits:

• Blocks UV rays that contribute to long-term eye damage

• Reduces high-energy visible light exposure from both sun and screens

• Gives lenses a premium, neutral finish

How to explain it:

“This is like sunscreen for your eyes. It protects against both UV and high-energy light, which is important if you're outside a lot or just want full coverage for long-term eye health.”

When Patients Say, “I Don’t Need That”

Instead of pushing coatings, ask simple questions:

• “Do you spend a lot of time on your phone or computer?”

• “Do you drive at night or work under bright lights?”

• “Do you notice glare or light sensitivity?”

Once they describe the problem, show them how the right coating solves it.

TKR Optics Tip: Keep Demo Lenses Handy

Showing is more powerful than telling. Keep sample lenses on hand with and without coatings. Use lens testers to show key benefits. Patients are more likely to say yes when they see the difference for themselves.

Final Thought

Patients don’t need a lecture—they need clarity. By simplifying your explanation of lens coatings and linking them to real daily problems, you help people make smarter choices about their vision.

At TKR Optics, our Rising Sun lenses are available with HMC, Blue Shield, and Photochromic coatings. Each one is designed for the way your patients actually live, whether they spend all day under office lights or commute in full sunlight. And because quality coatings protect the lens surface, they help ensure your patients’ glasses last longer, too.