Varifocals offer many advantages to glasses wearers. First, they combine three prescription lenses into one, saving the wearer from purchasing multiple pairs of glasses. Second, with varifocals, you can seamlessly switch your focus from close-up to distance with minimal distribution without switching your glasses. So, we understand why varifocal lenses are becoming increasingly popular.
However, quickly adjusting your focus to different distances takes a while to master, sometimes resulting in dizziness, headaches, and discomfort. Many of these symptoms are normal when starting with varifocal lenses, but there are a few ways you can adjust to wearing varifocal glasses.
Why am I struggling with varifocal glasses?
The straightforward answer is that you’re switching from glasses with one focus point (either long or short distance) to those with three focal points (long, short and intermediate). Getting used to your varifocals can vary depending on the person, your lifestyle, and the type of varifocal lenses you have. For example, higher-end varifocal lenses, such as our Omni-Vision HD, are designed to remove peripheral distortion common with varifocals.
If you’re a first-time wearing of varifocals, you may experience common issues of varifocals, such as:
Struggling to focus – Similar to any changes to your optical prescription, you need to allow your brain and eyes time to adjust to processing different distances, depths and perceptions.
Depth perception – Activities like walking up stairs can be tricky at first, as you need to train your eyes to focus on certain parts of the lens. This will help determine the size and positioning of items.
Headaches and dizziness – You may experience a swimming-like feeling when walking with varifocals. This is because you’re getting used to three different focal points, which can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
Peripheral distortion – When three lenses are combined into one, there is naturally some blurriness at the edges of the lens, known as peripheral distortion. Higher-quality varifocal lenses push this as far to the edge as possible to provide a more comfortable experience.
How Long Does It Take To Get Used To Varifocal Glasses?
The good news is that common issues with varifocals often fade with time, and by continuing to wear your varifocal glasses. Many varifocal wearers get used to them within a couple of days, whereas some may need a couple of weeks. If, after a month, you’re still experiencing problems, speak with your optician to check you have the right prescription.
Tips For Getting Used To Your Varifocal Lenses
There are a few things you can try at home to adjust to your varifocals quicker.
Practise makes perfect
With varifocals, it all comes down to persistence and practice. These lenses are brand new for your eyes, so it will take your brain time to adjust to a new way of seeing. Start by finding the central focus of each part of the lens, such as reading a book, to get used to how the lens is split.
Try different environments
The purpose of varifocals is that you can wear them anytime, anywhere, no matter what you’re doing. Test wearing your varifocal glasses at work, out and about, and driving to familiarise yourself with the changes in distance and focus.
Check your positioning
It’s important that varifocals sit correctly on your face to ensure the different parts of the lenses line up to aid focus and minimise distortion. A quick tip is to push your glasses to the top of your nose and position your nose in line with what you’re looking at; this will focus your eye line through the centre of the lens.
Check you have the right type of varifocal lenses
There are three varifocal lens types to fit your requirements, preferences and budget. If you’re not getting along with varifocals, you may benefit from a higher-performing lens.
1. Digital “Good” – These are entry-level varifocal lenses and are designed for those looking to wear varifocals occasionally.
2. Pro-Series “Better” – A good all-purpose varifocal lens that suits various environments. These offer sharper vision and less distortion.
3. Omni-Vision HD “Best” – Our highest-quality varifocal lens with any distortion being pushed to the far edges for a virtually interrupted view between different distances.
Be patient
The best tip we can offer for varifocal lenses is to stick with them. They will take some adjusting, but once you get used to them, they’re worth the time and investment – trust us!
Speak to your optician
If you’re really struggling with your varifocal lenses or feeling unwell while wearing them, we recommend contacting your optician to ensure you have the correct prescription and type of lenses for your needs.
Adjusting To Your Varifocal Sunglasses
Varifocal sunglasses are a fantastic option for holidays. They allow you to move from sunbed reading to alfresco dining to sightseeing without worrying about carrying or switching your frames. Getting used to your varifocal sunglasses is exactly the same as everyday varifocals – practice wearing them, and they’ll soon become your go-to sunnies.
Take your varifocal sunglasses one step further with Transitions® lenses. Not only can you move your focus from various distances, but your lenses will react to the light wherever you are — transitioning to a darker lens in brighter settings and reverting to clear in darker environments. Meaning you have everything you need from one varifocal, transitional lens!
Save Money off Your Varifocals With Lensology
If you require varifocals, chances are you’re already a glasses wearer and already have a favourite pair of specs. Upgrading your lenses to varifocals doesn’t mean you have to purchase new frames, too. At Lensology, our technicians will design and manufacture your varifocal lenses specifically for your needs, fitting them directly into your existing frames.
Not only does this offer guaranteed comfort as you’re used to your glasses frames, but it’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution. Better yet, with our amazing deals and speedy turnaround, you can wear your new varifocal lenses in no time.
